El Gouna Egypt: Red Sea Paradise You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
On the Red Sea in Egypt sits a small town I had never heard of before arriving, and chances are you probably have not either. El Gouna is a hidden paradise that somehow appeals to so many different types of travelers.
After spending time in Cairo and out in the desert near Siwa, arriving here felt like stepping into a completely different world. The atmosphere is calmer, the environment feels healthier, and there is an overall sense of peace and safety that makes it incredibly easy to settle in.
Many people picture Egypt as endless desert, ancient pyramids, or a chaotic city, but El Gouna tells a very different story.
This coastal town offers stunning scenery, unforgettable experiences, and an easygoing vibe that makes it the perfect place to slow down, relax, and stay longer than you ever planned.
The Town That Feels Like a Vacation Bubble (In a Good Way)
El Gouna is a bit like a gated community in the best way. It is a picture-perfect resort town made up of charming shops, excellent restaurants, and beautiful hotels and Airbnbs built along lagoons that flow directly into the Red Sea.
The town is designed for walking and biking, with pedestrian paths everywhere, or you can take a short tuk tuk ride to get around. The streets are quiet, colorful, and intentionally planned, which makes everything feel calm and easy instead of chaotic or overwhelming.
Lagoons, Bridges, and That “How Is This Real?” Scenery
What makes El Gouna truly special is the setting. Desert mountains rise behind you while bright blue water stretches out in front, creating a constant feeling of balance and calm. The town itself is built on interconnected lagoons, which makes exploring it so much fun.
Bridges over the water link streets and neighborhoods, and every corner feels like a picture. Walking or biking through the streets past shops and cafés with lagoons on either side feels like stepping into a storybook scene. The water adds life to the town.
Paddleboarding, swimming, or sitting on a dock watching the sun set are simple pleasures that make this place unforgettable.
Where I Stayed (And Why I’d Book It Again)
While I was in El Gouna, I stayed at Cook’s Club El Gouna, and I cannot recommend it enough. The property is beautiful, with a massive pool overlooking the lagoon and private access to the water.
There are plenty of lounge chairs, a bar, and a breakfast that easily ranks as one of the best hotel breakfasts I have ever had. Sitting right on the lagoon in the morning made it even better. The hotel also has a gym and yoga classes, and the rooms are cozy, stylish, and comfortable.
The location is perfect, just a short walk from the main street and some of my favorite restaurants.
My Favorite Spots to Eat (All Walkable, All Worth It)
For meals, I loved Athena for Greek food, Chicha for Mexican flavors, and Tiger Wok for Asian cuisine. All of them were delicious and just a short walk away. The main streets and town centers are just as inviting.
Cozy restaurants and boutique shops make wandering around effortless and fun, and the town feels thoughtfully designed and well organized without ever feeling artificial.
The consistent architecture and soft colors give it a cohesive and welcoming look, and there is always something new to discover around each corner.