Marsa Alam: diving and a quiet holiday on the Red Sea
What to know about Marsa Alam: reefs by the hotel, the quiet resort atmosphere, the airport 60 km away and how it differs from Hurghada.
Marsa Alam is on the Red Sea coast about 275 km south of Hurghada. Its development began only in 1995, and because of the clear water and white sand the resort is called the "Egyptian Maldives". If you are choosing between it and Hurghada, first read Hurghada: areas, hotels and beaches.
What to know about the resort
According to Wikivoyage, about 9,000 people live in the town itself, and there are few sights in it besides mosques and a market. Hotels stand along the coast and along the highway. You can walk around the town, and people usually get to the sea by hotel transport.
- The resort suits people who want quiet, diving and snorkeling.
- Corals and reefs are often right by the hotel.
- There is almost no nightlife or noisy streets here.
Getting there
Marsa Alam airport (RMF) is about 60 km northwest of the town, near Port Ghalib. Seasonal flights are operated by charters. From Hurghada you can drive along the coastal road, and buses also run from Cairo.
Order a transfer to the hotel in advance: distances here are large, and there is little public transport between hotels.
What to do
- Dive and snorkel, including at the reefs near hotels.
- Go on excursions deep into the desert and to the surrounding villages.
- Relax on the beach in quiet bays.
What to consider before the trip
- In autumn 2026 there were heavy downpours in the Red Sea area. Check the forecast.
- Choose a hotel with its own reef if you want to dive without a boat.
- Take coral shoes and sun protection.
Compare fares in the HotTrip flight search. For a similar quiet holiday elsewhere see Sharm El Sheikh: when to go.
Frequently asked questions
How is Marsa Alam different from Hurghada?
It is quieter here, with fewer people and closer to nature, but there is less entertainment outside the hotel.
Is it far from the airport to the hotels?
The airport is about 60 km from the town, and to the hotels it is most often about an hour on the road.
Is the resort suitable with children?
Yes, but choose a hotel with a gentle entry into the water and a calm bay.
When is the best time to go?
Choose periods with warm water and no downpours, and check the forecast before the trip.
Do I need a lot of excursions?
No, many people rest without trips, because the reefs and beaches are nearby.
Cover: photo by Stephan Ernst on Pexels
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