The district at a glance
Sheraton Road runs through the Sakkala district for about 4 kilometres, but the part that is pleasant on foot, with its shops and restaurants, is no more than 2 kilometres. It is a wide road with pavements, not a pedestrian street: traffic stays heavy, with taxis and minibuses. It takes its name from one of the first big international hotels on the coast. The street never sleeps, but it is most interesting in the evening.
The hotels along the street range from two to four stars. On the sea side, several open onto sandy beaches; on the town side you find aparthotels, fish restaurants and shops. For the detailed page, see Sheraton Road.
The marina on foot
Heading north, the street gives way to the Hurghada marina, a fenced promenade about 500 metres long, free, with security checkpoints at both ends. From Sakkala or El Dahar, the walk takes 15 to 30 minutes at an easy pace. Guides give it as open from 10am to midnight; prices are higher than in the rest of the city, with European, Asian and Arabic cuisine, shisha and a few shops. Excursion boats are moored there, and the harbour office offers sea trips and yacht rentals.
Where to eat
Sheraton Road is known for its grilled fish restaurants, alongside fast food. Choose the fish, ask the price by weight before it is cooked, and check the bill. On the marina, expect higher prices for the atmosphere and the view. To eat local for less, move away from the avenue towards Sakkala or El Dahar; our Sakkala guide and El Dahar guide cover these districts.
Shopping
The street lines up souvenir, clothes, jewellery and perfume shops, pharmacies and currency exchange offices. Prices are not always displayed: haggle with a smile, or walk on. For fixed-price essentials, the Senzo Mall shopping centre, away from the avenue, is open every day until late according to a travel guide. For souvenirs and spices, the old El Dahar souk is more authentic.
Sellers: how to react
The main annoyance in the district is the insistence of the sellers, who call out to passers-by outside every shop and can make walking tiring. A firm "no thank you", without stopping or a long conversation, is enough. Do not go in "just to look" if you do not plan to haggle, and do not accept tea or a gift that would put you under an obligation. For trips, compare several agencies and never pay in full in advance: see our advice on scams and safety in Hurghada.
Getting around
Minibuses and taxis run along the street: take any minibus and say "Sheraton" to the driver. By taxi, agree the price before getting in; a ride from another district generally costs a few euros. Our article getting around Hurghada covers taxis, minibuses, Uber and car hire, and Hurghada airport to the centre explains the arrival.
When to come
Come in the late afternoon and evening, from 5pm to 10pm: the heat drops and the signs light up. In summer, avoid walking between 11am and 4pm. During Ramadan, some venues open later and the atmosphere shifts to the evening.
Going further
To choose where to sleep for your budget and pace, read where to stay in Hurghada. To plan your day, see what to do in Hurghada in one day.
