Popular with windsurfers and divers, Port Safaga is a bustling town set on the sparkling Red Sea. It's fringed by golden beaches, swaying palms and a handful of luxury resorts. Thanks to its proximity to Saudi Arabia, it's also a jumping point for Nile Valley pilgrims travelling to Mecca.

Things to do

Most sunseekers gravitate towards the low-key resort strip at the northern end of the bay. The golden sand is laced with low-rise hotels and laid-back beach bungalows. For a taste of local delicacies, Diver's House serves up cold beers, tasty burgers and a great atmosphere.

Port Safaga is surrounded by colourful offshore reefs that make it a hotspot for divers. You can also explore the Salem Express passenger ferry, one of Egypt's best wreck dives. Panorama Reef is another local favourite, offering the chance to spot schooling barracuda, eagle rays, dolphins and grey reef sharks.

Thanks to year-round breezes, Port Safaga is one of the top windsurfing destinations in the area. Local operators like Kite House offer private lessons, professional courses and guided group trips to nearby beaches.

Located at the The Westin Soma Bay, The Cascades Championship Golf Course is one of the top places to tee off. Players are treated to 18 holes with stunning views of the Red Sea and the sun-bronzed desert. If you're not a golfer, you can instead spoil yourself with luxurious salt water-based therapy treatments at the Cascades Spa.

Getting around

The resort strip is easy to get around on foot. Port Safaga is located 50 kilometres south of Hurghada and the drive takes around one hour. The town is also a major hub for ferries to Saudi Arabia.