Sahl Hasheesh Old Town boardwalk at dusk

The boardwalk in Sahl Hasheesh Old Town, together with the Arrival Piazza, is one of the calmest places in the Hurghada area to spend the hour after sunset. Sahl Hasheesh lies about 18 km south of Hurghada Airport on Egypt's Red Sea coast, and its pedestrian Old Town is designed with stone arches, courtyards, fountains and lanterns that light up as the sun goes down. Compared with Hurghada Marina, it is far quieter, with fewer touts and a slower pace.

Visitors walk the lantern-lit boardwalk beside the bay, watch the light fade over the water and the resort hotels, and stop at cafes and restaurants overlooking the promenade. The Arrival Piazza offers fountains, seating and a view along the lines of arches toward the sea. A visit of about one to two hours suits a leisurely stroll followed by dinner, with menus ranging from Egyptian and Lebanese to Italian and international dishes at mid-range prices.

The boardwalk is free, and shops and restaurants are generally open about 10:00 to 23:00, though hours vary. A taxi from Hurghada Airport costs about EGP 400 to 600 (about $8 to 12), and from Sakkala about EGP 500 to 700 (about $10 to 14). Visitors who come from Hurghada should arrange the return ride in advance or use a ride-hailing app, since late-night taxis can be scarce.

The best photographs are taken during the blue hour just after sunset, when lanterns and fountains are lit against a darkening sky, and from the water's edge looking back at the arches. Crowds are light on weekdays and modest even at weekends. Winter and spring evenings are comfortable, while summer evenings stay warm. Dress is casual, with modest clothing preferred away from the beach.