Choosing at a glance
| Area | Distance | Who for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safaga town and port | centre | diving, small budget, stop on the way to Luxor | few hotels, port atmosphere |
| Abu Soma | about 5 km from the centre | families, all-inclusive | large resort with a water park named in one listing |
| Soma Bay | about 20 to 22 km north | upmarket resort, golf, kitesurfing | Westin, Sheraton and Robinson Club named in the listings |
| Makadi Bay | about 35 km north | beach and reef | see where to stay in Makadi Bay |
Why choose Safaga rather than Hurghada
Safaga is quieter than Hurghada and serves as a base for kitesurfing (steady wind), diving and the trip to Tobia Island; see the Safaga page and kitesurfing in Hurghada. For restaurants, evenings and the souk, Hurghada is livelier: see where to stay in Hurghada.
The limits
- Little going on locally: outside the hotel you need a taxi to go out. Agree the price before getting in (scams and safety).
- Wind: kitesurfers like it, but it can make the sea choppy for boat trips.
- Excursions: Luxor is about 210 km from Soma Bay according to one listing; compare in Luxor from Hurghada.
- Distances: they differ from one listing to another: re-read the hotel's own before booking.
Safaga, Soma Bay or Hurghada?
- Safaga town: port, diving, small budget.
- Soma Bay: elegant resorts, golf, kitesurfing.
- Hurghada: the most restaurants and excursions.
Hotel pick: Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay (Booking score 9.3, read 30 October 2026): in the Soma Bay area. Limit: entry to the peninsula is controlled and there is no town around, so every outing needs a transfer.
Hotel pick: Steigenberger Resort Ras Soma (Booking score 9.3, read 30 October 2026): in the Soma Bay area; 1,446 reviews on Booking. Limit: check whether à la carte restaurants, golf and water sports are included, as they usually are not.
FAQ
Is Safaga far from Hurghada airport? Allow 50 to 60 km, about 50 minutes by car; most resorts offer a paid transfer.
Where should I stay for kitesurfing? At Soma Bay or in a hotel on the neighbouring coast; see also kitesurfing at El Gouna.
Are there many hotels in town? No: most are in the neighbouring resort areas.
The Hurghada Authority editorial team, 25 October 2026.
