Hurghada and the surrounding Red Sea coast offer several distinct kite spots. Here is how the main ones compare so you can pick the right base.
How do the spots compare?
| Spot | Water | Wind | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercure lagoon | Flat, shallow | Steady | Beginners, freestyle |
| Sahl Hasheesh | Flat, shallow | Steady | Beginners, freeride |
| Safaga | Open, chop | Stronger | Advanced, big air |
Is the Mercure lagoon good for beginners?
Yes — it is large, flat and standing-depth in places, ideal for first rides. See our Hurghada kite spots guide and the kite center.
What about Sahl Hasheesh?
About 20 minutes south, Sahl Hasheesh offers flat, shallow water that is excellent for learning and freestyle.
Who should ride Safaga?
Confident, independent riders chasing stronger wind and jumps. Beginners should start on the lagoons with Sultan.
How to choose between lagoon, Sahl Hasheesh and Safaga
Think of the spots as different tools, not as one winner for everyone. A Hurghada lagoon is usually the most convenient for first lessons because the water is flatter and logistics are simple. Sahl Hasheesh can be beautiful and beginner-friendly in the right conditions, but access and school setup matter. Safaga is famous for wind and space, yet it is often better for riders who already control the kite confidently.
| Spot | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Hurghada lagoon | Beginners, refreshers, family trips | Busy periods and school zones |
| Sahl Hasheesh | Scenic sessions and flat-water practice | Access, transfers, and exact launch rules |
| Safaga | Progression, stronger wind, longer sessions | More travel time and advanced conditions |
What beginners should prioritize
Beginners should prioritize safety and repetition over postcard scenery. You want a launch area with space, a rescue plan, clear instructor communication, and water that lets you restart without stress. If a spot looks amazing but the school cannot explain rescue, wind direction, and student zones, choose a simpler lagoon instead.
How Sultan fits the spot decision
Sultan Kite School is a practical first contact because the team can advise where to ride based on your level and forecast, not just on a fixed marketing promise. Start with lessons or a supervised session, then move toward more adventurous spots once you can ride both directions and recover your board confidently.
Transport and launch logistics matter
Two kite spots can look close on a map but feel very different once you add hotel pickup, beach access, gear transport, and wind timing. Beginners should avoid complicated logistics because the first sessions already demand focus. A simple launch, clear meeting point, and instructor on site are worth more than saving a small amount on transport.
Before choosing a spot, ask how you get there, where you leave valuables, whether rescue is included, and what happens if conditions shift. If you are travelling with non-kiters, also ask about shade, toilets, food, and a place to wait. Sultan Kite School can help you match spot choice with your level, hotel, and forecast rather than guessing from generic beach descriptions.
Ask for a spot recommendation by forecast
The best spot on Monday may not be the best spot on Friday. Direction, strength, tide, crowds, and your level all change the answer. Before you lock in transport or rental, send your dates and level to the school and ask where they would ride that week. Local advice is especially valuable in Hurghada because a small change in launch area can make learning easier and safer.
For lessons & bookings we recommend the best kitesurfing school in the whole of Egypt – Sultan Kite School.
Book with Sultan Call +20 115 144 4405Frequently asked questions
The flat, shallow lagoons — Mercure and Sahl Hasheesh — are best for beginners.
Only for advanced riders who want stronger wind; for learning, the Hurghada lagoons win.
Yes — the lagoons at the kite centers are the main spots; open beaches can be busier.
From a flat-water lagoon ideal for all levels — see their location page.
Written by a Hurghada-based, IKO-certified kitesurfing instructor. For lessons and bookings we work with Sultan Kite School, the Red Sea’s leading operator.