Things to Do in Makadi Bay: 9 Unforgettable Activities For Your 2024 Itinerary

Makadi Bay, nestled along the beautiful Red Sea coast of Egypt, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. As we approach the end of summer, the perfect season for exploring this hidden gem Makadi Bay arrives.

Whether you love swimming with the dolphins in the spectacular Red Sea, exploring the rich Egyptian history, or simply looking for some peace of mind. There are things to do in Makadi Bay for every type of traveller.

In this blog, we’ll take a brief sojourn through Makadi Bay and discover what makes this such an awesome choice for holidaymakers seeking year-round sunshine and a bit of R&R. Before all that though, where exactly is it?

Sailboats on the water of the Red Sea with the desert in the background
The best things to do in Makadi Bay span the sea to the desert. Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash

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Where is Makadi Bay?

Makadi Bay is a resort town on Egypt’s east coast known as the Red Sea Riviera. Just 19 miles south of Hurghada and shrouded by desert. The area is a little less well-known and quieter than other east coast hotspots like Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh

However, that juxtaposition of desert meeting sea provides a rich hunting ground for incredible activities, which is probably why this place boasts so many options. 

You can literally go from snorkelling around a coral reef to clambering up towering sand dunes in the space of a couple of hours. But that arid landscape also guarantees two other top holiday staples; sunshine and soft sandy beaches. 

So, now you know a little more about the place, why don’t we uncover our list of memory-making excursions in Makadi Bay?

Sunset in Egypt from the perspective of the infinity pool at Makadi Spa Hotel
Can you think of a more magical place to enjoy a break? Check out Makadi Spa Hotel for more of this

9 Best Things To Do In Makadi Bay

As we said earlier, the best things to do in Makadi Bay aren’t confined to the sea or land, you can have a great time in any area. Here are our top 9 picks:

  1. Snorkelling & diving in the Red Sea
  2. Desert safari 
  3. Visit ancient cities
  4. Travel to Giftun Island
  5. Explore Makadi Water World
  6. Kick back on Makadi Bay Beach
  7. Unwind in a soothing spa
  8. Go for a round at the Madinat Makadi Golf Course
  9. Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise

Egypt Lovers, Make Sure You Also Check Out Our Couples Guide to the Best Things to Do in Hurghada


1. Exploring the Red Sea

Just like with the best things to do in Sharm el Shiekh, the Red Sea plays a huge part in the activity offering here in Makadi. With some of the best diving conditions on the planet, enthusiasts come from all over the world to plunge below the Red Sea. Probably why snorkelling is also one of our top picks for family activities in Hurghada too!

The Red Sea is renowned for its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life, and Makadi Bay is no exception. Among the many different things to do in Makadi Bay, this is number one for many tourists. Grab your snorkel gear or join a diving excursion to explore the underwater wonders. 

Encounter colorful fish, graceful rays, and perhaps even a playful dolphin or two. Divers can venture deeper into the sea, where shipwrecks and unique underwater formations await. For all nature lovers, snorkelling in Makadi Bay is a must.

2. Desert Safaris

As we said at the top, this resort town is surrounded by the Eastern Egyptian Desert and the sand dunes, stunning panoramic views, and exciting jeep rides make a desert safari here is an experience that’s hard to top.

The journey is exciting for the ride itself, but also for the side activities such as visiting the local villages and tasting homemade delicates. Take an ATV or camel ride through the baron landscape and you’ll soon come to a traditional Bedouin camp – jutting out of the sand like a mirage. 

Once you’ve got your head around the fact that people actually live in this violently beautiful atmosphere you can savor a delicious dinner under the starlit desert sky. We absolutely recommend doing this, night skies in the desert hit different!

People on a desert safari in Egypt
Explore the Eastern Egyptian desert from Makadi Bay. Photo by Taryn Elliott

3. Day Trip to The Ancient City of Luxor And Valley of The Kings

The town’s positioning means there are a host of day trips departing from Makadi Bay available daily.

One trip you should definitely have on your radar, especially if it’s your first time enjoying a holiday in Egypt, is a visit to Luxor. It’s roughly a 3-and-a-half-hour journey from Makadi Bay by car. But a good day trip to Luxor will give you great insight into the enchanting world of ancient Egypt. 

Luxor Temple, the Karnak Complex, and Valley of Kings, which kept pharaoh tombs and ancient treasure safe from the passage of time, are among the best places to visit in Makadi Bay. However, if you’re into your history and looking for an extended experience then make the 5-and-a-half hour car journey north to the Great Pyramids of Giza.

On the other hand, you could split your trip with a Cairo and Makadi Bay twin-centre. Do a couple of nights exploring in Cairo before heading to Makadi Bay on the coast.

4. Giftun Island

Another great activity in Makadi Bay is a boat trip out to Giftun Island. The boat to the islands takes around 45 minutes and when you arrive you’ll be dropped into the stunning Giftun Islands National Park, a safe haven for nature as well as a different family-friendly activity in Makadi Bay. Perfect for single parents on holiday in Egypt.

Take the day to snorkel along the coral reefs, swim in the pure waters, and relax on the sandy shores of the island. This activity is also a perfect destination for those who seek a perfect spot for making extraordinary photos.

5. Makadi Water World

For adventurous travellers, there is a range of water sports in Makadi Bay – and not just snorkelling and diving in the Red Sea. Makadi Water World is an absolute must-visit, especially for families looking for fun-filled things to do in Makadi Bay.

The water park offers an exhilarating array of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. From adrenaline-pumping rides to gentle water play areas for the little ones. That ability to cater to every age group (from the kiddies to the adults) makes the water park one of the best activities for families in Hurghada too! 


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6. Makadi Bay Beach

The beach resorts in Makadi Bay are usually all-inclusive. This means you can enjoy the full service of the beach bar, lay back in the lounge chairs, and sip your favorite cocktail without wondering where you’re going to keep your wallet or purse in your swimwear.

Another great thing about these all-inclusive resorts is they spill out on to the soft sands of Makadi Bay Beach. So you’re free to bask in the warm sun, swim in the turquoise waters, and unwind with a good book. The calm and peaceful atmosphere is perfect for soaking up the natural beauty and finding tranquility.

After all, what would a holiday be like if you didn’t get to enjoy a lovely sandy beach?

7. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

Treat yourself to a relaxing day at one of luxurious spas in Makadi Bay’s top resorts. Unwind with a soothing massage, indulge in a rejuvenating facial, practice mindfulness in a steam bath, or try out the therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy.

Besides a sunbathing relief on a beautiful sandy beach, spa centers, and massages make a great choice for those of you seeking some peace and quiet. When you wish to be gentle to yourself and take care of your mental health while traveling, relax your mind in a warm sauna.

8. Have a Round at The Madinat Makadi Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts, Egypt might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of a golfing escape. But, while this escape won’t be wall-to-wall rounds, you can escape for a while and work on your swing at Madinat Makadi Golf Course.

Appreciate a championship 18-hole course with stunning scenery. As you can imagine, the course is very well maintained and they offer different grass types for players of all levels to enjoy.

Its location near to several resorts means it deserves its spot on our list of things to do in Makadi Bay. Add in breathtaking views of the Red Sea and your round at Madinat Makadi will take your game to the next level – or at least you’ll have a great day even if your game evades you.

9. Romantic Sunset Cruise Experience

If you get tired of the Makadi Bay nightlife and wish to spark some romance with your loved one, this activity is your best choice.

Among all Makadi Bay activities, none is as romantic as a sunset cruise along the Red Sea. Sail into the horizon as the sun paints the sky in a spectacular array of colors, creating a magical moment to cherish.


Book Your Stay at Makadi Bay

Makadi Bay offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking a remarkable getaway no matter the time of year.

From exploring vibrant marine life to embarking on desert adventures, the destination caters to a diverse range of interests. 

However, while all those sun-soaked activities and beachy downtime might be enticing, you’re going to need a place to lay your head first. Click the button below and we’ll give you the low down on 5 all-inclusive resort options in Makadi Bay for every budget

Click here to read more about 5 Makadi Bay resorts that are perfect for every travel budget

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