Soma Bay is a resort peninsula about 45 km south of Hurghada Airport on the Hurghada-Safaga road, on Egypt's Red Sea coast. It is a planned, largely private resort enclave known for kitesurfing, golf and a string of upscale hotels, with a long, shallow lagoon that makes it one of the Red Sea's well-known wind sports destinations. The peninsula is flat and open, with desert behind and sea on three sides, so views are of wide water, low mountains across the bay and, on clear days, the outline of the Sinai coast.
Visitors come for the sport and the resorts. Kitesurf and windsurf schools operate daily in daylight, with lessons and equipment hire based on the beach, and the shallow, flat water of the lagoon suits beginners and intermediate riders. The wind is strongest from about April to October, and winter is calmer, which suits swimming and diving. A golf course on the peninsula, designed by a well-known course architect, draws golfers. Dive centres and boat trips run to nearby reefs and to the Giftun beaches, and some boat trips to Mahmya leave from Soma Bay. Resort spas and thalassotherapy centres are another draw.
Beaches and facilities belong to individual resorts, and day passes are set by each hotel, while kitesurf lesson prices should be confirmed with the school on arrival. A visit takes half or a full day. A taxi from Hurghada Airport costs about EGP 1,000 to 1,500 (about $20 to 30), so most visitors arrive by pre-arranged transfer.
The best time for wind sports is April to October, and for calm sea conditions winter. Mornings are calm and light for photographs of the lagoon, while afternoons bring stronger wind and busy kite launch areas. Visitors should bring sun protection, ask about insurance and lessons from certified instructors, and keep a safe distance from kite lines.
| Admission | Day passes set by each resort; confirm kitesurf lesson prices with the school on arrival |
|---|---|
| Hours | Resort areas; kitesurf and golf operations run daily in daylight |
| Typical visit | Half or full day |
| Best time | April to October for wind; winter for calm sea |
| Getting there | Taxi from Hurghada Airport about EGP 1,000-1,500 (~$20-30) |
| Address | Soma Bay peninsula, Hurghada-Safaga road, Red Sea (about 45 km south of Hurghada Airport) |
Location
Soma Bay peninsula, Hurghada-Safaga road, Red Sea (about 45 km south of Hurghada Airport)
26.8354, 33.9421 View on map
Highlights
- Shallow lagoon suited to kitesurfing and windsurfing lessons
- Championship-style golf course on the peninsula
- Upscale resorts, spas and dive centres
- Boat trips to Giftun beaches including Mahmya
Tips for visiting
- Confirm kitesurf lesson prices and equipment with the school on arrival
- Visit April to October for wind, winter for calm water
- Ask each resort about day-pass rules before travelling
- Arrange a pre-booked transfer; taxis from the airport cost about EGP 1,000-1,500
- Use certified instructors and keep clear of kite lines
- Bring strong sun protection
When to visit
April to October for wind sports, and winter for calm sea. Mornings are calmer and quieter.
Accessibility
Resorts typically have paved paths, lifts and ramps, but beaches are sandy and sports facilities vary. Wheelchair users should confirm access with the chosen hotel or school.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best wind for kitesurfing?
Wind is strongest from about April to October. Winter offers calmer water for swimming and diving.
How long should a visit last?
Half or a full day is typical, depending on lessons, golf or a resort day pass.
Can non-guests visit?
Day passes are set by each resort, so visitors should confirm access with the hotel before travelling.