Sahl Hasheesh is a planned resort community on a curved bay about eighteen kilometres south of Hurghada International Airport. Developed by the Egyptian Resorts Company from the mid-1990s, it was designed as a more upmarket, low-rise alternative to the main Hurghada strip, with large hotels set back from a long, gentle beach. Its Old Town district has cafes, shops and restaurants in a stylised Arabian look, and its sunken city, a partly submerged artificial structure, has become an artificial reef that attracts fish and is popular for snorkeling and diving. The bay is also close to the Abou Hasheesh protected island, a local marine reserve. Visitors come to stay at the big resorts, including Baron Palace, and to enjoy a quieter, tidy setting with calm water and good facilities. There is no entry fee, since the area is a resort town rather than a ticketed site. A short taxi ride from the airport brings you here, and many Hurghada boat trips also pick up from the bay.
What to do: stroll the Old Town in the late afternoon, when the heat eases and the cafes fill, then eat by the water. Beaches in front of the resorts vary in access, so check whether a day pass is possible if you are not a guest. Snorkelers should ask a local dive centre about the sunken city, and divers can join half-day or full-day trips from the bay. The calm, shallow water is good for children and for nervous swimmers.
How it compares: Sahl Hasheesh feels quieter and more planned than central Hurghada. There is less nightlife and street life, but wider streets, more space, and generally a calmer beach holiday. If you want a mix, stay here and take excursions into Hurghada for the marina, the old town and the aquarium. It is also close enough to the airport that transfers are short, which helps when you arrive late or leave early.
Practicalities: the bay is spread out, so plan to use hotel shuttles or taxis between areas. Bring cash for small purchases and agree taxi fares before you set off. In summer, dress for strong sun and look for shade at midday. Because the area is developed in phases, building work may be visible in places, which is worth asking your hotel about before you book. Pair a Sahl Hasheesh stay with trips to Giftun, a desert safari and the day tour to Luxor.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided visit to the bay, the Old Town cafes and shops and the beach, with optional snorkeling at the sunken city reef.
Best time
Late afternoon and evening for the Old Town; morning for snorkeling when the water is calmest.
How long
Two hours for the Old Town, or a full day with beach and snorkeling.
Tips
Check beach and day-pass access if you are not a hotel guest, bring cash, and use taxis or shuttles between areas.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who prefer a quieter, tidier resort bay with calm water.
- Families
- Very good for families thanks to the calm beach and wide, car-light streets.
- Couples
- Strong for couples, with refined resorts and a quiet evening scene.
- Pair with
- Baron Palace, a Giftun cruise or a desert safari.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or the length of your stay.
Good questions
How far is Sahl Hasheesh from Hurghada airport?+
It is about eighteen kilometres south of the airport, a short transfer by taxi or hotel shuttle. Check your transfer time with your hotel.
Is there a sunken city in Sahl Hasheesh?+
Yes, a partly submerged artificial city acts as a reef and attracts fish. It is popular with snorkelers and divers.
Is Sahl Hasheesh good for nightlife?+
It is quiet compared with central Hurghada. The Old Town has cafes and restaurants, but you will need to travel for livelier nights.
Can non-guests use the beaches?+
Access depends on the hotel and changes, so ask before you go. Some venues offer day passes.
Is it better than staying in central Hurghada?+
It suits those who want calm and space, while central Hurghada has more shops, nightlife and street life. Both are connected by taxi.