9 Magical Stays in Marsa Alam

Beyond the glamour of El Gouna, the happy hippy-ness of Dahab and the tried and tested sun, sea, and sand stomping grounds of Sharm, Hurghada etc, Marsa Alam is perhaps one of the most underrated yet also one of the most truly spectacular spots on the shores of Egypt’s Red Sea. A seven to eight hour drive from Cairo (flights currently run twice a week from Cairo to Marsa Alam International Airport) the journey can be enough to deter most. We ask you to put your fears aside and seize the trip. The shimmering magnificence of its sparkling still waters teaming with some of the best coral reefs in the world, all set against a stark desert landscape can feel truly transformative.  Here's a whole array of spots by the sea for you to choose from…

MARSA SHAGRA VILLAGE || redsea-divingsafari.com/villages/marsa-shagra

For the most authentic (and iconic) Marsa Alam stay, take a tent on the very edge of the water and hang out for a while with the diving enthusiasts and nature lovers that occupy this stretch of the coastline.

UTOPIA || @utopiabeachhotels OR utopiabeachclub.com

This family managed resort sits upon the remote bay of Ras Allasad and boasts an incredible house reef. Wake up, slip into the sea, swim with rays. Decide to never come back.

TUI BLUE ALAYA || @tuibluealaya OR tui-blue.com/en/en/hotels/tui-blue-alaya/

This adults-only five-star hotel boasts lush Arabesque interiors by the Red Sea.

JAZ MARAYA RESORT || @jazmaraya OR https://www.jazhotels.com/marsa-alam-madinat-coraya/hotels/Jaz-Maraya.aspx

This modern hotel is one of the most popular stays in Marsa Alam, with riveting sea views and luxe interiors.

ALBATROS SEA WORLD

For families and couples only, this hotel features an infinite selection of outdoor pools, which run across the entirety of the resort’s length.

DEEP SOUTH ECO-LODGE AND DIVE CLUB || deepsouthredsea.com

This hut and tent ecolodge in Um Tondoba Bay is best for divers seeking a community— the gorgeous graffiti murals aren’t so bad either.

BLUE VISION DIVING HOTEL

This boutique diving hotel is a prime spot for those seeking an underwater excursion with like-minded people.

MARSA NAKARI || redsea-divingsafari.com/villages/marsa-nakari

A charming, intimate glamping village with its own private bay and house reef.