Hurghada Marina Guide: Restaurants, Boats and the Best Evenings by the Water

When the sun drops behind the desert mountains, Hurghada's social life moves to the water. The New Marina in Sakala is where locals and visitors stroll past rows of yachts, eat grilled fish by the water and stay for a drink or a shisha long after dark. It's the most pleasant place in Hurghada for an evening out – and for many visitors, the one place they return to again and again.

This guide covers what the marina is like, where to eat and drink, boat trips that leave from here, nearby sights and how to get there from your hotel.

Hurghada Marina at a glance

The promenade

The marina is built around a harbour basin with a wide promenade, the Marina Boulevard, running along the water. Yachts, dive boats and speedboats are moored on one side; restaurants, cafés, bars and shops line the other. It's car-free, well lit and safe to walk in the evening, which makes it popular with families as well as couples.

The best time to arrive is about half an hour before sunset. Walk the full loop while the light turns gold over the boats, then pick a table by the water.

Where to eat and drink

The marina has a wide choice of restaurants: fresh fish and seafood that you choose from the counter, Egyptian grills, Italian, Lebanese and international cafés, plus bars with music in the evening. Many places have terraces right on the water. Prices are higher than in local restaurants in El Dahar, but still moderate by European standards.

Restaurants and bars change often, so it's worth checking recent reviews. For a current overview with menus and opening hours, see the restaurant listings on Hurghada Marina Guide, a local site dedicated to the marina.

Tips for eating out

• Fish is priced by weight – ask for the price per kilo before it goes on the grill.
• Check whether service is included on the bill; a small extra tip is appreciated.
• Alcohol is served in many restaurants and bars at the marina, but not everywhere.
• Book ahead on Friday and Saturday evenings and in high season.

Boat trips from the marina

Many private yachts and speedboats leave from the marina for snorkelling trips to the Giftun Islands, Orange Bay and the reefs off Hurghada, as well as sunset cruises. A private boat costs more than a group trip but you choose the route and the pace. Group excursions often depart from other harbours in Hurghada, so always check the meeting point when you book.

For the most popular trips, read our guides to Hurghada's island trips and the Dolphin House.

Shopping

Along the promenade and the streets behind it you'll find souvenir shops, small boutiques, pharmacies and supermarkets, plus dive shops selling masks and fins. Prices for souvenirs are usually fixed here, which some visitors prefer to the bargaining in the old town's markets.

Nearby: El Mina Mosque and El Dahar

A short taxi ride north brings you to the El Mina Mosque, Hurghada's landmark mosque by the harbour, and the old town of El Dahar with its market streets, spice stalls and local cafés. Combine both in one evening: a walk through El Dahar's market, then dinner at the marina. Our El Dahar guide has the details.

Getting there

The marina is in central Hurghada, about 10–15 minutes by car from Hurghada International Airport and within walking distance of some hotels in Sakala. From other areas:

Taxis are easy to find, but agree the fare before you get in, and arrange the return trip with the same driver or ask a restaurant to call one. Ride-hailing apps also operate in Hurghada. If you're staying further out, a pre-booked return transfer from your hotel to the marina takes the stress out of the evening.

Practical tips

• Come at sunset and stay for dinner – it's the marina at its best.
• Bring a light jacket in winter; evenings by the water can be cool from December to February.
• Cash and cards: most restaurants accept cards, but carry small Egyptian pound notes for tips.
• Dress code: casual, but cover swimwear when you leave the beach.

More ideas for your stay: explore the Hurghada travel guide, find the right area in where to stay in Hurghada, and read what to expect on arrival in our Hurghada Airport guide.