Within an hour and a half drive from Cairo (or less if you know someone with a lead foot behind the wheel), lies the beautiful area of Ain El Sokhna. The trip out starts without much to marvel at, and you’ll want to begin your journey with a full tank of gas because stations are scarce between the bustle and congestion of the city and the oasis that awaits you. Soon enough, your eyes will take in the splendor of towering mountains and the clear water of the Red Sea.  While the area has long been popular with those who could afford holiday homes there to escape the urban buzz, as well as those seeking the area springs for their therapeutic qualities, it has recently been seeing a bit more development and tourism coming its way. Even so, Ain El Sokhna remains a beautiful and relaxing destination for the traveler longing respite for the soul that only the beach can provide. Let us show you why you should visit next time you find yourself in Egypt.

The Beaches

As if we really need to make a case for you to get your bum to the beach! But, just in case you do need a little prodding, the beaches here are gorgeous and definitely the main draw. There is a near constant breeze, making it perfect for those who like to lounge without feeling like you’re cooking under the sun. The sand is soft and the beaches themselves are clean and typically uncrowded. Shells are also typically plentiful and easy to find if you like plucking some as you walk along the shoreline. There’s a peace and tranquility here that is incredibly hard to beat, and it would be a perfect spot for a morning or evening picnic.

Fun In and On the Water

Those gorgeous, pristine waters make for a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling if you’re looking to get in the water and have some fun. Clown and butterfly fish darting in and out of coral are a regular sight for those who go exploring. Jet skiing and water skiing are also available. If you would like to do some kite surfing, then you’ll want to check out Zaafarana. It’s a totally doable hour drive from Ain El Sokhna and offers a mecca of water activities. If you would rather stay dry and try to see some of that breath-taking reef life, glass bottom boats are an option.

Resorts

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

Stella Di Mare

If you are really looking to turn your trip into something that celebrates and embraces pure relaxation, there are some stellar resorts in the area that will certainly help you in that arena.  Better yet, many of them won’t break the bank and offer great amenities. Think infinity pools, lagoons, loungers, and grass huts right out on the beach. And just in case you forgot about the incredible views Ain El Sokhna has to offer, well, let us remind you.

Eats

It’s not a vacation if you’ve don’t splurge on things to stuff your face with! Plus, a visit to Ain El Sokhna is the perfect opportunity to try out the tasty Egyptian cuisine. If you’re looking for seafood, Abou Aly is well praised for their menu. Diners seem to agree that their grilled shrimp are very hard to beat. Fish Ring Restaurant also ranks high in must-eat eateries in the area, partially for the food and partially for the views from the top of a mountain. Several local restaurants also deliver, so if you’re simply feeling too lazy to go out, why not order in and let the noms come to you. Or who knows, with the many local fishermen, you might even find something tasty on the way!

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