Kitesurfing in Egypt: El Gouna vs Soma Bay vs Dahab
Egypt is the easiest winter kitesurf trip: warm water, shallow lagoons and a lot of wind. Here is how the three best-known places differ.
At a glance
| El Gouna | Soma Bay | Dahab | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea | Red Sea | Red Sea | Gulf of Aqaba |
| Best months | Spring to autumn | March to November | March to November |
| Wind | Northerly, sideways onto lagoons | NW, around 22 kn avg May–Oct | NE–N, cross-offshore, peaks midday |
| Water | Shallow, flat lagoons | Huge shallow lagoon | Flat lagoon + wave spot |
| Best for | Learning, variety of centres | Space and wind | A quiet town and a small lagoon |
El Gouna
Pick it when you want a resort with lots of schools, flat lagoons and steady north wind. Check which spot you are going to, since depth depends on tide at Mangroovy Beach, while Riah has a long shallow stretch with no reef.
Soma Bay
Pick it when you want more wind and a lot of room. It is about 45 km south of Hurghada, and the mountains push the wind a few knots higher. A rescue boat is part of the system because the wind is cross-offshore.
Dahab
Pick it for a quieter, more traveller-style trip. The kite lagoon is marked, the water is flat, and the wind is strong on most days from March to November. Windsurf time rules apply, so ask the centre.
Practical notes
- You will normally launch through a school or centre and may have to register.
- Water is 22–28°C most of the year, so a shorty or just a rash vest is enough in summer.
- Bring a 9 m and a 12 m. Summer averages are around 20 kn but varies a lot.
- Check each spot page for live stations and the five-model forecast.
Spots mentioned
Conditions, rules and access change. Always check on the beach, ask local schools and ride within your level.