Makadi Bay Holidays

Makadi Bay is a total showstopper for water babies and sun-worshippers who want their jollies served with a massive stonking side of underwater magic, and a ton of serious "look at that fish" moments.

Why do people love going on holidays to Makadi Bay?

• Snorkelling for Days - The house reefs here are absolutely beaming; you can literally walk off the sand and find yourself face-to-face with Nemo and his mates without even trying.

• Waterpark Heaven - It’s home to some of the biggest waterparks in Egypt, featuring slides so steep they’ll make your stomach stay at the top while your body hits the pool.

• Souk Makadi - A swanky little shopping and dining hub that’s perfect for a sunset stroll, a cheeky bargain, or just sitting back with a cold drink and people-watching.

• Desert Backdrops - You’ve got the sizzling Red Sea in front and dramatic mountains behind, making every single holiday snap look like a high-grade Hurghada postcard.

What is the best time to visit Makadi Bay?

Makadi Bay is a legend when it comes to year-round sun, but the "vibe" depends on how much you enjoy feeling like a human rotisserie chicken. In the peak of summer, it’s all about the pool life and staying hydrated with a steady stream of Fanta Lemon. If you’re more into exploring the desert or actually walking to the buffet without breaking a sweat, the cooler months are a total dream.

• Spring - The weather is a stun 24°C to 28°C. It’s the sweet spot for the kiddos to splash about before the heat gets properly intense.

• Summer - Expect things to get booming with temps hitting the high 30s. It’s a no-brainer for serious tanners and anyone who essentially wants to live in the water.

• Autumn - The sea is delish and warm after a long summer, and the air cools down to a comfy 27°C. It's prime time for a boujee boat trip.

• Winter - Mild and gorge with highs around 22°C. You might need a hoodie for the evening, but it’s perfect for swapping the UK gloom for some Vitamin D.

Getting around on your Makadi Bay holidays

Makadi Bay is a pretty self-contained paradise, but you aren’t just stuck in your hotel. Most things are within a little stroll or a quick ride away, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost in the dunes.

• Walking - The resort is linked by a gorgeous promenade, making it easy to wander between hotels and the Souk for a delish dinner.

• Hotel Shuttles - Most of the big resorts run their own shuttle buses to the waterparks and shopping areas, which is top-tier for saving your legs.

• Taxis - Readily available for trips into Hurghada if you fancy a change of pace or a visit to the big marinas.

• Bicycles - Many hotels offer bike hire, which is a stun way to explore the bay at your own speed without breaking a sweat.

What are the best beaches to visit on your Makadi Bay holidays

The beaches here aren't just for lying on; they are the gateway to some of the best underwater action in the world. Whether you want a private patch of sand or a beach that’s a bit more lively, Makadi has the goods.

• Makadi Main Beach - A sweeping golden curve that's 10/10 for families who want easy access to snacks and shallow, crystal-clear water.

• Serenity Beach - A bit more rugged and peaceful, attracting couples who want to avoid the "cannonball" splashes of the main resort areas.

• Fort Arabesque Beach - Widely considered the best spot for snorkelling, this area attracts the fish-obsessed crowd who live in their goggles.

• Stella Di Mare Beach - Known for its long jetty, it's the grade-A choice for divers wanting to jump straight into the deep blue stuff.

• Labranda Promenade Beach - A buzzing spot with a youthful energy, perfect for grabbing a cheeky cocktail and listening to some tunes by the tide.

A local’s guide to Makadi Bay

Makadi Bay might look like a string of posh resorts from the outside, but if you scratch the surface, there’s a much more authentic vibe waiting to be unearthed. To do Makadi like a local, you need to step away from the international buffet and find the spots where the dive instructors hang out after work and where the "real" Red Sea magic happens. Whether it's finding the best koshari or knowing which reef has a resident turtle named Fatima, we’ve got the inside scoop.

Makadi Bay’s hidden gems and local secrets

• Souk Makadi Shisha Corner - For a lavish laid-back evening, head to the Shisha Bar in the Souk for a fragrant pipe and a mint tea – it’s where the locals chillax.

• Zomba’s Local Eats - If you’re tired of "tourist food," head to Zomba for authentic Egyptian street food like falafel and koshari that is definitely worth telling your friends about.

• Moon Valley Night Experience - Skip the big hotel shows and head to the nearby Bedouin camps for a star-watching session that feels properly authentic.

• Fort Arabesque Jetty - This is the best-kept secret for dawn-risers; get there at 6am for a swim when the sea is like glass and the eagle rays are out.

• Master Diving Center Hangouts - If you want the best diving tips, chat with the guys here; they know the secret spots where you’re guaranteed to spot a moray eel.

• Mini Egypt Park at Sunset - It sounds cheesy, but visiting this "mini" version of Egypt just before the sun dips gives you an influencer-worthy view and the best light for some selfies with a mental backdrop.