With reliable wind, sunshine for most of the year and warm, clear water, Egypt has earned its place among the top kitesurfing destinations in the world. Most of the action happens along the Red Sea coast and on the Sinai Peninsula, where the prevailing northerly wind meets long beaches and shallow lagoons. Here is our guide to the best kitesurfing spots in Egypt, and who each one suits best – including our own lagoon for kitesurfing Hurghada.
Hurghada
Hurghada is the heart of kitesurf in Egypt. It has an international airport, plenty of accommodation for every budget and a string of kite spots along the coast. The wind blows on around 270 days a year, mostly from the north and cross-onshore, which makes it a safe place to learn as well as to progress.
Our own spot lies on a long, shallow lagoon north of the city, between Hurghada and El Gouna, beside the AMC Royal Hotel. Waist-deep water over a sandy bottom, flat water at mid tide and a steady breeze make it ideal for beginners, while patches of deeper water and natural ramps keep experienced riders happy. Find out more about our Red Sea kitesurfing spot.
Best for: beginners, improvers and freeriders who want easy logistics.
El Gouna
Just north of Hurghada, El Gouna is a resort town built around lagoons and canals. Its kite beaches offer flat-water and choppy areas, a lively atmosphere and plenty of cafés and restaurants. It is a great base for riders who want nightlife and comfort off the water.
Best for: intermediate riders and anyone looking for a resort atmosphere.
Soma Bay and Safaga
South of Hurghada, Soma Bay sits on a peninsula with wind from several angles and a mix of flat water and small waves. Neighbouring Safaga is known for strong, consistent wind and is popular with experienced riders and windsurfers.
Best for: intermediate and advanced riders who like strong wind.
Ras Sudr (Sinai)
On the Gulf of Suez side of the Sinai, Ras Sudr is famous for its huge, shallow flat-water lagoon and strong, steady wind for much of the year. It is quieter than the Red Sea resorts and feels more remote.
Best for: flat-water freestyle and speed riding, and riders who want space.
Dahab (Sinai)
Dahab on the Gulf of Aqaba is a laid-back town with a lagoon for flat-water riding and reef breaks for wave riders. Its relaxed, bohemian vibe attracts kiters, divers and climbers alike.
Best for: intermediate and advanced riders, wave riding and a chilled atmosphere.
The Red Sea islands by kite safari
Some of the best riding in Egypt is not on the mainland at all. Islands such as Tawila and Geisum, north of Hurghada, lie well out in the open sea, so the wind is usually strong and steady. Sandbanks on the leeward side create flat, shallow lagoons about a metre deep with no coral – perfect for training. The only way to reach them is by boat, which is why a kite safari Hurghada is on so many riders’ wish lists.
Best for: independent riders who want empty spots and a week on the water.
When to go
You can kitesurf in Egypt all year round. Spring (March to May) is often the windiest period, autumn (September to November) brings strong, even wind and warm water, and the summer months are reliably windy and hot. Winter is milder, with cooler water – a long 5 mm wetsuit is recommended from December to February. Check our live Hurghada wind forecast for today’s conditions.
Which of the best kitesurfing spots in Egypt is right for you?
- First time on a kite? Choose a shallow, flat-water lagoon with cross-onshore wind – Hurghada is ideal.
- Want to progress to jumps and tricks? Look for flat water with occasional ramps and consistent wind.
- Experienced and adventurous? Try a kite safari to the islands or the open lagoons of the Sinai.
Whichever spot you choose, Egypt rarely disappoints. If you would like to start in Hurghada, take a look at our kitesurfing lessons and kite rental, or get in touch to plan your trip.
Planning your trip? Check the latest UK foreign travel advice for Egypt before you go.
