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    The beach and resort promenade at Sahl Hasheesh

    Egypt travel guide

    Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay

    Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay are purpose-built resort communities known for their calm bays and house reefs. Travelers choose these areas for a self-contained vacation experience focused on beach access and water sports away from the bustle of central Hurghada.

    Photo: Marc Ryckaert / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

    Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay in brief

    Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay are purpose-built resort communities known for their calm bays and house reefs. Travelers choose these areas for a self-contained vacation experience focused on beach access and water sports away from the bustle of central Hurghada.

    Why visit Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay

    Located south of central Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay are areas built for resort stays. You can spend time on the Sahl Hasheesh promenade or use the private beaches attached to the hotels. These spots are practical if you want your accommodation, dining, and beach access all in one place without traveling back into the main city every day.

    Makadi Bay focuses on coastal resorts and licensed marine activities like snorkeling or diving. Each area has a different layout, so it helps to look at the specific resort map before you book. You can plan your days around the water sports available at your hotel or take walks along the designated coastal paths.

    History, tips, best time to go and what to see.

    Read the full Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay guide

    Plan your visit

    Useful travel information for Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay

    Best time to visit

    The most comfortable months for visiting are March through May and September through November. These periods offer warm water for swimming without the peak heat of mid-summer.

    How many days?

    Plan for five to seven days to fully enjoy the resort facilities and diving opportunities. If you are using it as a base for day trips to Luxor, a full week is better.

    Getting around

    Most visitors rely on pre-booked airport transfers or hotel shuttles to reach the resorts. Within Sahl Hasheesh, you can use electric carts or walk along the paved promenade.

    FAQs

    Sahl Hasheesh & Makadi Bay FAQs

    Is Sahl Hasheesh or Makadi Bay better for families?

    Makadi Bay is often preferred by families because many resorts there feature large, integrated water parks and shallow beach entries. Sahl Hasheesh tends to be quieter with a more spread-out, romantic atmosphere suitable for couples.

    Can I travel between Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay easily?

    While they are located near each other, there is no public transit connecting the two. You will need to book a private taxi or car service for the 20-minute drive between these resort zones.

    Is the snorkeling good in Makadi Bay?

    Yes, Makadi Bay is well-regarded for having accessible house reefs located very close to the shore. You can often see a variety of fish and coral formations just by swimming out from your hotel beach.

    Do I need a visa for these areas?

    Entry rules depend on your passport and can change, so please check the official source before you travel.

    Are the resorts all-inclusive?

    Many of the properties in both Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay operate on an all-inclusive basis. This usually covers meals, drinks, and some daily entertainment, though specific inclusions vary by hotel.

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