Both resorts sit on the Red Sea and both offer sun, warm water and good diving. They feel very different on the ground. Knowing the difference helps you choose before you book flights.
Atmosphere
Hurghada is a proper holiday town. It has a long strip of hotels, busy streets, a marina and plenty of places to eat. Marsa Alam is a scattering of resorts along the coast, with a modest town and a calmer pace. In the evening, many guests stay in their hotels.
The sea
Marsa Alam is known for its reefs and its wildlife. Several of its best snorkelling places, such as Abu Dabbab, can be reached from the shore, and boats go to the dolphin reefs of Samadai and Sataya. Hurghada also has excellent reefs, but they are usually reached by boat from the marina.
Things to do
- Marsa Alam: turtles, dolphin reefs, quad rides, Wadi El Gemal and long private trips to the Nile.
- Hurghada: boat days, desert safaris, shopping, water sports and a wide choice of trips.
Both resorts can reach Luxor by road, but the drive from Marsa Alam is of a similar length and also goes across the desert. If temples are your priority, check the time each way.
Who goes where
- Divers and snorkellers: Marsa Alam is the more focused option.
- Couples wanting quiet: Marsa Alam.
- Groups of friends or families wanting variety: Hurghada.
- First-time visitors who like lots of choice: Hurghada.
Getting there
Marsa Alam airport (RMF) has charter flights from the UK in season. Hurghada has a larger airport and generally more flights. Transfers from the airport to your hotel are short in both places, but Marsa Alam's hotels are more spread out, so check the distance.
If you cannot decide, think about what you will remember. If it is a turtle in clear water, choose Marsa Alam. If it is an evening out and a wider choice, choose Hurghada.
Plan with us
Marsa Alam or Hurghada: which Red Sea resort suits you?
Marsa Alam is quiet and reef-focused. Hurghada is bigger, with more nightlife and shops. Compare beaches, trips, flights and who each resort suits.