El Gouna
الجونة
A lagoon resort town north of Hurghada, with colorful buildings along canals and small islands. Known as the 'Venice of the Red Sea,' it has a strong kitesurfing and yachting scene.
El Gouna lies about 25 km north of Hurghada International Airport. It is a resort town that private developers began building in the 1990s as a single master-planned project. More than 20 islands and lagoons are linked by canals, and the architecture blends Nubian, Moorish, and Mediterranean styles in warm colors. The overall setting is clean and orderly. The town centre has Abu Tig Marina, and around the yacht harbour are restaurants, bars, boutiques, and luxury hotels. The old quarter of Kafr El Gouna and the Downtown area also have many restaurants and shops. The shallow waters of the lagoon have steady winds, making them a popular spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. There are also a water-ski cable park, a golf course, and diving centres. Minibuses, tuk-tuks, and water taxis connect the different areas. The El Gouna Film Festival, held every October, attracts filmmakers from the Middle East and North Africa. It suits visitors who want to escape the bustle and enjoy a refined resort atmosphere. It is also possible to take a taxi from Hurghada for a day trip of about 30 minutes and have dinner at the marina.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Dolphin House (Sha'ab El Erg)
- El Dahar Old Town & Souk
- El Mina Mosque
- Hurghada Marina
- Sindbad Submarine
- Sakkala & Sheraton Street
- Hurghada Museum
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium