Safaga Holidays

If you’re looking to swap the damp for some serious vitamin D and world-class diving without the Sharm El Sheikh crowds, Safaga is your spot. It’s laid-back, sun-drenched, and serves up that effortless holiday mood.

Why do people love going on holidays to Safaga?

• Diver's paradise - Safaga is home to some of the Red Sea's most legendary wrecks and reefs, minus the underwater traffic jams.

• Windsurfing central - The bay’s unique wind conditions make it a tip-top playground for windsurfers and kitesurfers looking for a thrill.

• Black sand magic - The beaches here are famous for their dark, mineral-rich sands that are basically a natural spa treatment.

• Chill factor - It's way less frantic than the bigger resorts, making it the ultimate place for a kicked-back jolly.

What is the best time to visit Safaga?

Safaga is a bit of a weather overachiever, serving up sunshine 360 days a year like it’s no big deal. If you’re after a winter glow that’ll make your colleagues back in the UK weep, the cooler months are a total dream, but summer is strictly for the sun veterans who want that monster heat and a permanent excuse for a dip.

• Spring - Average 25°C - Perfect for active kiddos and explorers who want warmth without feeling like they're cooking away inside an air-fryer.

• Summer - Average 34°C - It's properly popping off in the sun; expect sizzling temperatures and booming conditions for cooling off underwater.

• Autumn - Average 28°C - The sea is pretty much a giant, salty thermal bath this time of year, and it’s the perfect time for couples to snag the best loungers without any competition.

• Winter - Average 21°C - While everyone back home is scraping ice off their windscreens, you’ll be basking in t-shirt weather wearing a snazzy pair of sunnies.

What are the best beaches to visit on your Safaga holidays?

• Safaga Bay - A massive stretch of golden sand with shallow waters that are more than ideal for families with little kiddos to splash around safely.

• Soma Bay - Just up the road, this swanky spot offers turquoise waters and proper luxury vibes for the more boujee holiday goer.

• Tobia Arba - Known as the Seven Pillars, this beach-access reef is a dream for snorkellers who want to see Nemo within touching distance.

• Sharm El Naga - The beach itself is super chill, with plenty of umbrellas and a delish local restaurant, making it a gorge, stress-free day out for those who want to venture a little further north.

Things to do on your Safaga holidays: The Local's Edition

Forget the "tourist-trail" brochures for a second. If you want a jolly that feels fully authentic, you need to rub shoulders with the residents. From the best street food to the "natural" spas, here is how to do Safaga like you actually live there.

• Coffee at a Baladi Cafe - Sit on a wooden bench, grab a mint tea, and watch the world go by for a proper local vibe. Everyone loves a bit of people watching!

• The Port Fish Market - Head down early to see the whopper of a catch come in and buy a feast worth of fish for a tasty beach BBQ.

• Natural Sand Burials - Locals swear by burying themselves in the black sand to cure aches; it’s a top-quality DIY spa day that will look edgy on your Insta story.

• Souk Street Shopping - Skip the hotel gift shop and haggle for some lavish leather goods or spices in the heart of town.

• Nightly Bedouin Tea - Head just ten minutes into the desert to sit around a fire with the local Bedouins for a once in a lifetime experience that is well and truly magical.

• Marina Strolls - Avoid the mahoosive crowds and walk through the marina at dusk when the local families come out to play and eat.

Getting around on your Safaga holidays

Getting from A to B in Safaga is a breeze once you know the score. Since the town is fairly compact and centred around the port and the northern hotel district, you won’t need a big daft map to find your way. Whether you're heading out for a stylish dinner or scouting for a new dive spot, here is how to navigate like a pro.

• Private Transfers - The most easy breezy way to get from Hurghada Airport to your hotel in about 45 minutes without any haggling.

• Local Taxis - These are everywhere and are spot-on for short hops, just make sure you agree on the fare before you jump in.

• Hotel Shuttles - Many of the fancy hotels offer their own mini-buses to whisk you to the best local beaches or marinas.

• Walking - The main tourist hub is easy to explore on foot, which is smashing for soaking up the sun and finding hidden gem cafes along the way.

• Microbuses - For the brave souls wanting a properly authentic experience, these local vans are super cheap but involve a bit of a squeeze.

• Boat Taxis - Often the quickest way to reach the best reefs like Utopia Island, and let's face it, arriving by boat feels way more boujee.