Hurghada Marina is a modern harbour at Saqala Square in Hurghada. Yachts and sailboats are moored along a waterfront promenade about 500 meters long, shaded by palm trees and lined with cafes, bars, restaurants and shops. The area is cleaner and calmer than much of the city, and the people who approach you are mostly restaurant staff inviting you to sit. Evenings are the main draw, when the boats are lit up and the terraces fill. Most tourist boats leave from here, so it is also where many Red Sea excursions begin.
The promenade and the boats
The marina is a small harbour for moored boats, with a waterfront walk of about 500 meters. Yachts and motor boats line the water, and palm trees shade parts of the promenade. Boutiques and cafes face the harbour.
It is a newly built part of Hurghada, and it feels cleaner and more colorful than the older parts of the city. Walkers get more room here than in many tourist areas of town. Sellers are few, and the invitations you hear mostly come from restaurant staff. Cats are a common sight along the way.
Boat builders can also be seen at work at the marina, continuing a trade that has passed down through generations. They build vessels such as the dahabiyas and falucas used on Nile cruises.
Eating and drinking by the water
Restaurants, cafes and bars stand along the harbour, and many have terraces with views of the boats. The menus cover local and international cooking, and ice cream parlors are part of the mix. Steak is one dish that comes up for the restaurants here. A sunset drink on a terrace is a common way to end the day.
Some venues have live music in the evening. The marina is also known for dining out, so a meal here fits easily into a stroll along the boulevard.
The marina is open late, until about 1:30 in the morning, so there is no need to rush a dinner.
Boat trips and sea excursions
Most tourist boats leave from this marina, so if you buy a sea excursion in Hurghada, it will often start here. Glass-bottom boat rides to the coral reef run from the marina, and the boats are described by those who go as safe despite the submarine-like look. Booking at the marina itself is a better choice than going through a hotel.
Full-day excursions from here can combine a yacht ride with snorkeling, a first scuba dive with an instructor, and a stop at Orange Bay Island. Lunch is served on board and soft drinks are included, but alcohol costs extra. Before a dive, instructors explain the safety hand signals, since you cannot talk underwater.
The nearby desert is another option. Quad biking, jeep trips and dune buggy outings into the dunes behind Hurghada can be arranged from the town.
Around the marina
Sheraton Street is only a short walk away. It is a busier, more local street, and the difference from the polished marina is clear. The street also has modern stores for shopping.
At the far end of the marina, a right turn leads to the mosque. Take care on the road, which is busy.
For access, the marina has a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom and parking lot, as well as paid parking and onsite services.
FAQ
How do I get to Hurghada Marina?
A taxi from your hotel is the easiest way, and ride apps work for this. The marina is at Saqala Square. A paid parking lot is available if you drive.
When is the best time to visit Hurghada Marina?
Evening is the favorite time, when the boats are lit up and the terraces are busy. The area is also pleasant in the afternoon for a stroll and a meal, and it is open late.
Can I book boat trips at the marina?
Yes. Most tourist boats leave from here, including glass-bottom boats to the coral reef. It is better to book directly at the marina than through a hotel.
Is Hurghada Marina good for families?
Yes. It is clean and family friendly, and there are fewer pushy sellers than in other parts of the city. The promenade is a calm place to walk.
Is Hurghada Marina wheelchair accessible?
The marina has a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, seating and parking lot.
