Ain El Sokhna: Top 18 Fascinating Things to Do and Places to Stay

Updated On: March 21, 2024 by   Ciaran Connolly

Ain El Sokhna is one of the famous tourist towns in Egypt and a lovely holiday destination because of its beautiful nature. Ain El Sokhna is located on the coast of the Red Sea. It is 55 kilometres from Suez City and approximately 120 kilometres from Cairo. 

Ain El Sokhna was named after the hot springs in the nearby Ataka Mountains of Suez City. The thermal pools sit at an impressive 750 metres above sea level!

Located along the picturesque shores of the Red Sea, Ain El Sokhna is a coastal town with much to offer tourists seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. From pristine beaches and luxurious resorts to cultural attractions, Ain El Sokhna presents a diverse array of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do and places to stay in Ain EL Sokhna. Scroll down to read through the blog, or click on one of the highlighted sections below to jump ahead!

When is the Best Time to Visit Ain El Sokhna?

Ain El Sokhna has a fantastic atmosphere throughout the year, making it a great destination that you can visit in both summer and winter. Ain El Sokhna is home to a large group of villages and tourist resorts, including cabins, chalets, and apartments that accommodate guests each month of the year.

Throughout the year, Ain El Sokhna’s sandy beaches draw in tourists from around the world. The beaches here are considered among the most beautiful in the world and provide excellent opportunities for activities such as camping, scuba diving, snorkelling, and many other adventurous attractions.

Winter

One of the most popular times to visit Ain El Sokhna is during the winter months, spanning from November to February. The weather is mild and pleasant during this period, with daytime temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F).

The cool winter climate makes Ain El Sokhna an ideal destination for outdoor activities like swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the town without the scorching heat of the summer months. Additionally, the sea remains relatively calm over winter, creating perfect conditions for water sports and boating adventures.

Summer

On the other hand, if you’re a sun worshipper and prefer hot weather, then the summer months from June to August might be your preferred time to visit Ain El Sokhna. During this period, Ain El Sokhna experiences its peak tourist season, attracting visitors eager to soak up the sun.

Daytime temperatures during summer can soar above 35°C (95°F), making it perfect for lounging on the beach and enjoying the clear, warm waters of the Red Sea. However, it is essential to be prepared for the intense heat and take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun’s rays if you visit Ain EL Sokhna during the summer.

Autumn & Spring

For those who wish to avoid both the winter’s chill and the summer’s heat, the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) offer a delightful compromise. The weather is generally pleasant during these months, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).

This period is also less crowded as it is not during the peak tourism seasons. This will allow you to enjoy the tranquillity of Ain El Sokhna and its attractions without the bustling crowds.

The Best Things to Do in Ain El Sokhna

Ain El Sokhna is packed with unique tourist attractions that draw in visitors. Each year, countless tourists visit the city to see its excellent museums and historical sites, as well as to enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the area.

Here are some of the most popular things to do for tourists in Ain El Sokhna:

1. Al Galala Mountain

Al Galala Mountain is one of the famous attractions in Ain El Sokhna. There, you will see the first sustainable city built in Egypt. 

The mountain ranges reach 1200 meters in height. These mountains in Ain El Sokhna have cultural and religious importance, as it was said that they are where the Prophet Moses passed on his way to the Red Sea to escape the oppression and tyranny of the Pharaoh and his soldiers. 

Within the mountains is a group of springs containing sulfur water, which flows continuously. Scientific research has proved that this water can help treat a range of skin diseases and some diseases that affect bones, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Al Galala City

Al Galala City is located on the shore of the Gulf of Suez in the Ras Abu Al Darj area. The city spans over 1,000 acres. It is a fabulous tourist city, with a very strategic location next to the coast and near the mountains. 

The resorts within Al Galala City include two hotels. One of the hotels overlooks the mountain, and the other overlooks the coast. The first hotel has 300 rooms and 40 chalets, while the coastal resort has 300 rooms and 60 chalets and suites. The seaside resort also features a shopping mall.

The city of Al Galala is only 20 kilometres from Ain El Sokhna and a 60-minute drive from Cairo. The city is known for having the longest cable car in the Middle East. The cable car travels a distance of 4.5 kilometres and links the upper area of the city to the two hotels located there. 

The city features eight cinemas, two ice rinks, and over 600 stores and restaurants. There is also a yacht city with a capacity of 333 yachts, an aqua Park that includes nearly 100 different water activities, and 10 swimming pools across the city.

With everything the city has to offer, it is an excellent destination for anyone visiting Ain El Sokhna. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or solo, there are many attractions to enjoy in the beautiful city of Al Galala.

3. The Petrified Forest

The Petrified Forest Reserve is located a short 18 kilometres away from Cairo. The forest covers 7 kilometres of land and was declared a nature reserve in 1989. It is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination on any Egyptian adventure.

The Petrified Forest near Ain El Sokhna is considered a rare geological monument that is unparalleled in terms of its vastness and the diversity of petrified wood. The forest is densely packed with petrified stems and tree trunks that grow from the ground within the wood mountain formation, making it a unique destination like nothing else on Earth. 

The branches of the enormous petrified trees located inside the reserve take the form of pieces of rock with cylindrical sections. The Petrified Forest area is an almost flat plateau featuring picturesque cliffs and hills that have been exposed to the wind by erosion.

The stunning Al Khasab Mountain covers many parts of the protected area around the Petrified Forest. Al Khashab Mountain is made of layers of sand, gravel, clay, and petrified wood. The mountain is an incredible 70 to 100 meters thick. 

During the spring months of each year, several areas across the Petrified Forest Reserve bloom with white daffodils. This rare flower needs a particular environment to grow, and its extracts are used in the manufacturing process of many modern medicines, especially Cancer treatments.

Trace fossils have also been found throughout the reserve, which might be of organisms that went extinct long ago. Some of the most fascinating fossils found in the forest include remnants of different shark species. Archaeologists and scientists have found shark teeth in the area, which means that seawater may have covered the land during ancient times.

4. Sulfur Eyes

The sulfur springs are located in the south of the Suez Gulf, inside the famous Porto Sokhna Hotel near Ain El Sokhna. The Porto Sokhna Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the area. The sulfur springs maintain a water temperature of 35°C all year round. 

Other sulfur eyes are also found in the southern Gulf of Suez below Mount Ataka. People use these waterways as a treatment for many diseases, such as eczema, chronic gout, arthritis, and disorders of the circulatory system. The sulphur water is also believed to be able to extract negative energy lurking inside the human body. 

If you want to try the sulfur eyes for yourself, you have to bathe in the water for 10 to 20 minutes every day. The sulfur water has a role in lightening the skin’s pores and renewing body cells.

When you finish your therapeutic dip into the waters, you will feel your muscles relax. Your skin may appear a little red, but this is due to the warm temperature of the water and will soon fade. After you finish your soak session, you should rest briefly to recover and regain balance. 

5. Al Adebya Bay

Al Adebya Bay is located 20 kilometres south of the Suez Canal. It is a famous and magnificent area where tourists and locals alike can spend time with their friends and family. It is a popular tourist spot due to its extraordinary reputation for attracting birds of different species to land on its shores.

The bay near Ain El Sokhna is a common place for migratory birds to stay during their flights and southern migrations. If you are interested in birdwatching, Al Adebya Bay is a beautiful destination to sit and admire the birds that inhabit the area. 

The white seagull and golden eagles are the most common birds to see at the bay. Additionally, there are archaeological sites that you can visit in the sea, such as an ancient shipwreck. Visitors can also enjoy other activities at the bay, like fishing, surfing, and other water sports.

6. Monastery of Saint Paul

The Monastery of Saint Paul is one of the oldest and famous in Egypt and Ain El Sokhna. It is located in the Eastern Desert near the Red Sea Mountains, about 155 kilometres southeast of Cairo. 

The Monastery covers an area of about five acres, and it was built in the 5th century over a cave located there and this is where Saint Paul lived for more than 80 years.

It was said that when Saint Paul died, two lions were seen standing by the door of the cave in which Saint Paul lived there and that’s why when you visit any Coptic museum in Egypt you will see him flanked by two lions with a crown above his head. 

The monastery has suffered through the years, but the worst one was in 1484 when all the monks were killed and the monastery plundered and it was occupied for 80 years. It was neglected for 119 years and repopulated by monks from St Anthony’s Monastery.

When you enter the monastery you will see three churches, the important one there is the underground Church of Saint Paul which contains the hermit’s cave and burial place. You will also see that the walls are painted with well-preserved frescoes, and the ceiling is hung with ostrich eggs, symbols of the resurrection. 

You won’t find direct transportation to the monastery, you will have to take the bus from Cairo to Hurghada and get off at the turn-off for St Paul’s Monastery and take a road of 13 kilometres until you can reach the monastery.

7. Monastery of Saint Anthony

Saint Anthony’s is one of the oldest ancient monasteries in the world, built-in memory of the saint after his death because he was the first to establish the idea of Christian monasticism in the desert of Egypt. 

The monastery is located between the mountain range of Al Galala in the Arab desert in the Red Sea and before Zafarana about 48 kilometres and it was built in the 4th century where the spring from which he was drinking and near the cave in which he stayed.

The area of the monastery is 18 acres, and it includes the Church of the Cross and Resurrection. 

This church is a modern architectural landmark carved into the rocks of these mountains and the words of the Bible are engraved on its doors which say Christ has risen, in truth, he has risen and on its top, an ancient icon of the father of monks engraved with some words that say “If you want to be perfect, follow me”.

The monastery contains all the necessities of monastic life that were used by monks in the past and some of these things are a Water spring, grain mill, mill, olive press, and sacrifice kiln. 

The main entrance of the monastery was used for the entry and exit of people and needs and it was called the saqia. It is called the saqia because the entrance system is a cylindrical reel that rotates around itself, and when the reel rotates, the thick rope attached to it can be pulled or dropped. The monastery is also a pioneer in the use of solar energy as a source of energy.

8. Porto Sokhna

Porto Sokhna Resort is located in the middle of Ain El Sokhna, which belongs to the Suez Governorate and is 55 kilometres from the city of Suez. It is about 150 kilometres from Cairo. Porto is one of the best places in Ain Sukhna, which enjoys a majestic view due to its location, as it is in the heart of the mountain. 

Porto Sokhna extends over an area of about 5,000 square kilometres, and it is 270 meters high. It is one of the first resorts that added a golf course in Egypt, and many golf tournaments have been held there.

There, you will find the first cable car in Egypt that takes you from Porto Sokhna to the highest peak of Mount Ain Sukhna and is about 1.2 kilometres away. 

It will take you about 10 minutes, and the cable car can take eight people. It is better to take it in the daytime so you can watch the beautiful view from the top. 

The beach in Porto Sokhna is a wonderful place to spend your day. You can enjoy eating delicious food between a special breakfast and regional dinner and it also offers some lovely trips.

Porto is such a perfect place for your vacation, where you can enjoy beach games, such as parachutes and sailing on the yacht. Also, there are three types of swimming pools, including one for children. 

You can do many water sports, like riding speed boats, scuba diving, and practising sailing. Inside Porto Sokhna, there are many cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy quiet music and another option is going to the cinema to watch the latest movies shown on its screens.

9. Diving in the Red Sea

Diving in the Red Sea is one of the best things to do for tourists in Ain El Sokhna. The waters come alive under the surface with magnificent marine flora and fauna. Additionally, the Red Sea is known for its colourful coral reefs.

Whether you are a beginner or an expert diver, exploring the Red Sea is one of the most fascinating and adventurous things to do while on holiday in Al Ain Sokhna.

10. Safari and Mountain Climbing

As you know, Al Ain El Sokhna is famous for its beautiful nature and mountains. These natural vistas make it a perfect place to explore and adventure. Some of the best outdoor adventures in Al Ain Sorkhna are going on a safari in the desert or climbing the mountains. Both of these areas have ecological and historical importance. 

The most famous mountains in Al Ain Sokhna are Al Galala Mountain, about 1200 metres above sea level, and Al Ataka Mountain, about 800 meters above sea level.

Many tourists love going on safari trips to discover everything beautiful and to explore the wildlife there, which gives them information about the desert environment that most of Egypt enjoys. While enjoying your safari, you will see many flowers, plants, like the acacia tree and thorny shrubs, and wild animals like deer, foxes, and rabbits.

11. Beaches in Ain El Sokhna

The city of Ain El Sokhna contains many beautiful beaches that have distinctive and beautiful colors. It has clear water and white-coloured sand and you can relax and spend a great time on any of these beaches which are considered the most beautiful beaches in Egypt. 

The most famous beaches there beside Porto Sokhna are Cancun Beach, located inside the Cancun Beach Resort and it is also a safe beach for families and children, and water sports enthusiasts enjoy complete freedom in practicing their hobby. 

There is also Laguna Beach, inside Laguna Beach Resort, and it is one of the most beautiful and magical beaches due to the wonderful green spaces of the resort itself. In this wonderful and clear water, you can practise a lot of water sports such as windsurfing and snorkelling.

To practice all these activities and visit all these wonderful places, you should find a hotel or a place to stay in for relaxation, and from it, you can start your journey in Al Ain El Sokhna, so let us see some of these hotels.

Places to Stay in Al Ain El Sokhna City

As a popular Egyptian tourist destination, there are countless incredible places to stay in Ain el Sokhna City. Here are a few of our favourites.

1. Stella de Mary Golf Hotel

The hotel is located directly on the Red Sea on Hurghada Street. It is one of the most luxurious hotels in the area and provides many services for visitors and contains many activities that you and your family can enjoy there. 

The hotel also contains a nightclub, dedicated places to play billiards, squash and table tennis, swimming pools, and wellness facilities.

2. Azha Village

This is another famous place in Al Ain El Sokhna, located in the middle of the city and it is surrounded by magnificent landscapes. It was built on an area of 380 acres, and it contains facilities, main services, and entertainment. 

Also, you will find green spaces, restaurants and cafes, health clubs, sports courts, and swimming pools of various sizes.

3. Mövenpick Hotel

It is one of the special hotels in the city, as it is close to many important landmarks there and the hotel rooms feature a modern design overlooking the waters of the Red Sea.

4. Cancun Resort

Cancun Sokhna Resort is located in Zafarana, directly by the sea. It is considered as one of the high-end tourist resorts there and it has a fitness center and children’s areas and it contains a set of air-conditioned rooms, which are equipped with the latest tools.

5. IL Monte Galala

The hotel is characterized by a unique location in Al Galala Mountain, its charming beach, and turquoise seawater. It is like one of the European luxury resorts. You will not find any other resort like it in Ain El Sokhna. 

It is near the Movenpick Hotel, only seven kilometres away. The hotel contains swimming pools, waterfalls, green spaces, a spa, and a gym. Also, there are medical services, cafes, and restaurants.

6. Blue Blue Village

Blue Blue Village was given this name due to the large areas of water, artificial lakes, waterfalls, and crystal lakes located within the resort, with an area of about 12,000 square meters. 

The village contains a private beach, swimming pools for children and adults, and covered pools to protect guests from the sun. Also, there is a spa, gym, medical services, cafes, and restaurants.

7. Coronado Marina Village

Ain El Sokhna’s Coronado Marina village has a beautiful U-shaped design and the latest and unique European style with a system of tiered terraces that gives a panoramic view of the entire sea from all units. 

It was built on a large area in the best sites of Ain El Sokhna, where the total area of the village is about 77 acres. The village contains swimming pools, artificial lakes, commercial malls, sports fields, cafes, and restaurants.

Ain El Sokhna is a Fantastic Destination

Ain El Sokhna is a captivating destination that beckons travellers worldwide with its unique blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure. This coastal town along the Red Sea offers an array of experiences to suit a diverse range of tastes and preferences.

Ain El Sokhna is a destination that transcends the boundaries of leisure and adventure, offering a multifaceted experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who venture here. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Ain El Sokhna invites you to discover its treasures and create unforgettable memories on the shores of the Red Sea.

Whether you are drawn to the serene shores, the luxurious resorts, the vibrant water sports, or the rich cultural heritage, Ain El Sokhna has something to offer every visitor. It is a place where the beauty of nature, the warmth of the people, and the richness of history converge, ensuring that every visit is a journey of discovery and delight.

If you’re planning a holiday in Egypt, check out our guide to the ultimate Egyptian holiday!