How many beaches to visit: Plan for
two to four beach stops in total. Egypt’s beach time is mostly spent snorkeling or diving, which needs a couple of days to feel worthwhile, and the transfers between regions are long. More than four means you spend more time in buses than in the water.
Which kind for which traveler: Backpackers on a tight budget should prioritize
Sinai shoreline towns such as Dahab and Nuweiba, where open reef access, cheap guesthouses and a social scene keep costs low. Divers should choose the Red Sea’s mainland coast for liveaboard and boat-trip access. Those after sand and swimming in summer should go to the Mediterranean, but expect crowds and basic facilities. Resort belts are worth the money only if you want comfort, kids’ amenities or all-inclusive convenience, since …
read more 👉 How many beaches to visit: Plan for
two to four beach stops in total. Egypt’s beach time is mostly spent snorkeling or diving, which needs a couple of days to feel worthwhile, and the transfers between regions are long. More than four means you spend more time in buses than in the water.
Which kind for which traveler: Backpackers on a tight budget should prioritize
Sinai shoreline towns such as Dahab and Nuweiba, where open reef access, cheap guesthouses and a social scene keep costs low. Divers should choose the Red Sea’s mainland coast for liveaboard and boat-trip access. Those after sand and swimming in summer should go to the Mediterranean, but expect crowds and basic facilities. Resort belts are worth the money only if you want comfort, kids’ amenities or all-inclusive convenience, since the sand there is no better than the free options.
Budget: A backpacker can manage on
US$25 to 45 a day in Dahab or Nuweiba (EGP 1,200 to 2,200), covering a dorm or basic room, local food and a bit of snorkeling. Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh run higher, often US$40 to 70 a day. Public beaches are often free, but beach clubs and resort day passes cost roughly US$5 to 25 (EGP 250 to 1,200) and can include a sun lounger and a meal credit. A snorkel gear rental is about US$3 to 8, and a boat snorkel trip typically costs US$20 to 45. Intro dives cost around US$50 to 80. Taxis between towns add up: confirm the fare before getting in, since there is rarely a meter.
Costs that catch people out: Entry to marine parks (like Ras Mohammed) and some reef zones carries a separate fee, often US$5 to 15 on top of the boat price. Foreigners pay higher rates than Egyptians, and prices are quoted in US dollars or euros at many dive centers, so exchange cash at a bank or ATM rather than relying on tout rates. Settle the full price of any boat trip, including gear and lunch, before boarding. Book snorkel trips directly with licensed operators rather than the first tout on the corniche.
Safety: Sea conditions matter. Strong wind and currents can affect Dahab and parts of the Mediterranean, and some beaches have
no lifeguards. Swim where others are in the water and check flags if present. Shark incidents are rare, and operators close beaches when they happen, so follow local guidance. Never stand on or touch coral: it is illegal in protected areas and damages the reef. Wear reef shoes, since sea urchins and sharp rock are common near shore. Use reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard, because the sun here is intense even in winter.
Cultural considerations: Egypt is conservative, so dress to suit where you are. Resorts and dive towns accept standard swimwear, but public beaches in Alexandria and the North Coast see many locals swimming in clothing. Cover up when walking away from the sand, and ask before photographing people. Women traveling alone can expect unwanted attention at busy public beaches, and choosing a private club or dive-town beach reduces it. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public are discouraged, and many restaurants close until sunset.