El Gouna, Egypt is a charming resort town on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, about 30 kilometers north of Hurghada. Stretching 10 kilometers along the shore, it’s made up of 20 man-made islands surrounded by lagoons. Designed by European and American architects, El Gouna draws inspiration from traditional Egyptian and Nubian architecture, giving it a distinctive and captivating character.

As one of the most eco-friendly towns in Egypt and Africa, El Gouna is dedicated to environmental conservation, with waste separation, recycling, and clean energy initiatives keeping its streets pristine and waters crystal clear. It even earned the Green City Award in 2018 for its efforts.

While it shares Hurghada’s sunny weather and stunning marine life, the resort town offers a more laid-back, tranquil atmosphere—perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea. It’s a truly magical spot.

What Makes El Gouna Unique

Abu Tig Marina

One of the most vibrant spots on the Red Sea, Abu Tig Marina is known for hosting some of Egypt’s finest yachts and offering stunning views from top hotels like Three Corners Ocean View, Ali Pasha, and Captain’s Inn.

The Marina is buzzing with life all year, especially in the evenings when the temperature cools and people head out. It’s home to some of the resort town's best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, including Pier 88, Aurora, and Duport Pool Club. For a more laid-back vibe with views of the Red Sea, don’t miss The Bartender.

Downtown

Known as El Kafr or simply Downtown, this area is the heart of El Gouna’s vibrant life. It's filled with restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from traditional Egyptian dishes to Mediterranean and seafood delights. Shops, lively cafes, and restaurants make this the go-to spot, especially during the cooler evenings when life kicks into gear and continues well into the early hours.

Golf Clubs

El Gouna boasts two of Egypt’s premier golf courses: the El Gouna Golf Club and Ancient Sands Golf Resort. Both provide golfers with unique challenges and breathtaking views, making them a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.

Kitesurfing

Thanks to the consistent year-round winds, it has become a hotspot for kitesurfing. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there are plenty of kitesurfing schools offering courses and instruction in multiple languages.

Year-Round Events

There’s never a dull moment here! From cultural and nightlife events to exciting festivals, the town hosts something for everyone. In winter, the El Gouna Film Festival draws a crowd, while summer brings automotive events, arts and crafts, and beach parties. To stay updated on current and upcoming events, check out the official website: El Gouna Events.

Getting Around El Gouna

One of the unique ways to move around is by TukTuk! And it’s not just any TukTuk—you can book an Uber TukTuk to take you anywhere around the town. It’s a fun and quirky experience, perfect for zipping around in style!

Accommodation

While traditional platforms like Booking.com and TripAdvisor are available, the resort town has its own official booking service for reserving hotels directly. They often offer exclusive discounts and promotions year-round, making it worth checking out their site for the best deals: El Gouna Hotels.

What is El Gouna Famous for

Squash Tournaments

Since 2012, the resort town has hosted the prestigious El Gouna International Squash Open, a major event on the PSA World Tour.

El Gouna Film Festival

This is one of the top film festivals in Africa and the Middle East, showcasing an array of Egyptian, African, and Middle Eastern films. Held in October-November, the festival turns the town into a hub for Egyptian actors, musicians, and influencers, with numerous parties and events across the resort town. For more information, visit their official website.