El Gouna

El Gouna is Egypt's most polished Red Sea address, a purpose-built resort town threaded with saltwater lagoons, marinas and low-rise villas in warm desert tones. Water is everywhere here, so getting around often means hopping a little taxi-boat between islands, restaurants and beach clubs.

The town draws an active, international crowd. World-class flat-water lagoons make it one of the best places on earth to learn kitesurfing, while the marina fills with sunset drinks, seafood terraces and a genuinely walkable social scene, rare for Egypt. Golf, spas and diving trips round out the days.

Go to El Gouna for comfort and ease rather than raw authenticity: it feels calm, safe and effortlessly organised, a soft landing on the Red Sea that suits families and first-timers alike.