Sahl Hasheesh

Sahl Hasheesh is a purpose-built bay about 25 km south of Hurghada, laid out around a long crescent of beach with a promenade, an "old town" of restaurants and a line of large resorts behind it. It was designed rather than grown, and it shows — everything is spread out, quiet and deliberately unhurried.

The bay itself is the draw. The water is shallow and calm a long way out, which suits families and hesitant swimmers, and there is a genuine reef within the bay. Abu Hasheesh Island offshore sits inside a local protected area, and the diving and snorkeling around it see far fewer boats than the sites closer to Hurghada.

There is also a curiosity here that most guests never hear about: a submerged sculpture park a short swim from shore, built as an underwater attraction, which snorkelers can reach without a boat.

What we run from Sahl Hasheesh

Our semi-submarine trip departs from the bay with free transfers from any Sahl Hasheesh hotel, and we run private transfers to and from Hurghada and the airport. Most of our Hurghada excursions will collect from here for a $5 per person supplement.

Practical notes

• Sahl Hasheesh is self-contained. There is no town to wander into, so if you want markets and street life you will need transport into Hurghada.
• The bay is long — resorts at opposite ends are a genuine walk apart.
• Book transfers in advance. There is no taxi rank and fares arranged on the spot are steep.