---
node: spot_hurghada_sahl_hasheesh
type: spot
slug: sahl_hasheesh
destination: dest_hurghada
title: "Sahl Hasheesh"
lead: "Sahl Hasheesh is a purpose-built resort bay 18 kilometres south of Hurghada, a 12-kilometre crescent of hotels facing a house reef. It is quieter than Hurghada and built for swimming rather than nightlife."
published: 2026-08-12
updated: 2026-08-12
image_file: spot_hurghada_sahl_hasheesh.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sahl_Hasheesh_R39.jpg"
image_author: "Marc Ryckaert"
image_license: "CC BY-SA 4.0"
---

## Overview

Development began in the 1990s around a single bay with a sandy shelf and clear water close in, which is unusual on this coast. A pedestrian promenade and an Old Town square of arcades and restaurants sit at the centre. The reef starts a short swim from shore in several places, so snorkelling does not need a boat.

## Highlights

The house reef off the promenade is the reason to choose this bay over Hurghada. The submerged sculpture and mock-ruin at 8 metres, placed as a dive attraction, is an easy free-dive or snorkel in calm water. Boats to Giftun Island leave from Hurghada rather than here, so allow travel time for the reef trips.