Marsa Alam remains one of Egypt's best-kept secrets—a pristine Red Sea paradise offering everything you’d expect from a world-class beach destination, minus the crowds. While Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh draw millions of visitors annually, this serene coastal gem quietly sits on Egypt’s southeastern shore, waiting to be discovered.
Often called the “Egyptian Maldives,” Marsa Alam enchants visitors with crystal-clear turquoise waters, untouched white-sand beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere. Here, the beauty of the Red Sea meets Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and vast desert landscapes, creating an unforgettable escape.
If you’re ready for an adventure beyond the typical Egyptian tourist trail, this guide will show you why 2025 is the perfect year to experience Marsa Alam before the world catches on.
Nestled along Egypt’s southeastern coastline, Marsa Alam lies about 274 kilometers south of Hurghada. It stretches across a pristine section of the Red Sea coast where the Eastern Desert meets crystal-blue waters. The region runs from Quseir in the north to Berenice in the south, offering nearly 140 kilometers of unspoiled shoreline.
The town itself remains small and tranquil, serving as a gateway to secluded beaches and exceptional diving spots. Port Ghalib Marina represents Marsa Alam’s modern side—an upscale waterfront development that combines luxury with natural beauty. Despite its gradual growth, the town has maintained its authentic charm and low-key atmosphere.
Marsa Alam delivers a distinctly different experience than its famous northern neighbors.
The nickname “Egyptian Maldives” is well-deserved. Beaches like Sharm El Luli boast powdery white sand and shallow turquoise waters that blend into deep sapphire hues, resembling tropical islands. Coral reefs lie close to shore, making snorkeling effortless and rewarding.
Unlike the actual Maldives, however, Marsa Alam combines this tropical scenery with the culture and history of Egypt—plus it’s far more affordable. Remote, tranquil, and breathtakingly beautiful, this Red Sea paradise offers the feeling of having your own private island without the price tag.
Marsa Alam’s subtropical desert climate guarantees sunshine almost every day of the year. Winters are mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures averaging around 22–24°C (71–75°F). Spring brings warmer weather, perfect for beach lovers and outdoor explorers.
Summer reaches highs of around 33–35°C (91–95°F), but the coastal breeze and low humidity make it more tolerable than other parts of Egypt. Autumn sees pleasant temperatures between 25–30°C (77–86°F), ideal for those who enjoy both water and desert adventures.
The Red Sea maintains a welcoming warmth year-round, ranging from 22°C (72°F) in winter to 29°C (84°F) in summer. This makes swimming, snorkeling, and diving enjoyable in every season.
Visibility underwater often exceeds 30 meters, making Marsa Alam one of the top diving destinations in the world. Whether you’re exploring shallow coral gardens or deep drop-offs, the underwater clarity and marine biodiversity are consistently remarkable.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Marsa Alam is from October to May, when the weather is mild and the sea conditions are perfect for diving and snorkeling. These months offer comfortable daytime warmth and cool evenings—ideal for outdoor dining, desert excursions, and stargazing.
Abu Dabbab, or “Turtle Bay,” offers one of the most magical snorkeling experiences in Egypt. Dozens of green and hawksbill turtles live here year-round, grazing peacefully on seagrass beds. The calm, shallow waters make this spot ideal for families and beginner snorkelers.
Sha’ab Samadai and Sataya reefs—known as the “Dolphin Houses”—are home to pods of playful spinner dolphins. Visitors can swim alongside these wild creatures in their natural environment. Strict eco-guidelines ensure these interactions remain sustainable and respectful.
Elphinstone Reef is a world-renowned dive site located 12 kilometers offshore. Its steep walls drop into deep blue waters teeming with marine life, including oceanic whitetip sharks, hammerheads, manta rays, and sea turtles. Due to strong currents, it’s recommended for experienced divers—but the reward is unforgettable.
Marsa Alam International Airport is the main gateway, serving direct flights from several European cities as well as domestic flights from Cairo. The airport is about an hour north of the main town. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Hurghada or Luxor and continue by road.
Accommodation options range from luxury resorts at Port Ghalib Marina to eco-friendly lodges along the coast. For an upscale experience, Port Ghalib offers five-star hotels and modern marinas. Nature lovers may prefer eco-resorts like Bedouin Valley or Lazuli Lodge, which provide sustainable stays with easy access to coral reefs.
Seafood lovers will find Marsa Alam a paradise of freshly caught fish and shrimp. Local restaurants serve traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari, falafel, and grilled meats. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a Bedouin dinner under the stars—complete with traditional music and oven-cooked lamb. For dessert, try kunafa or basbousa from local bakeries.