Aqua Tropical El Gouna Hurghada

Hotel Description

You know what’s funny about El Gouna? Everyone talks about the fancy resorts, but honestly, some of the best experiences I’ve had are at places like Aqua Tropical that just get the basics really, really right. This place sits right on El Gouna 2 Road – which, if you’ve been to the Red Sea before, you’ll know puts you in the sweet spot where you’re close enough to everything but far enough from the tourist madness that hits the main strip.

I mean, look, it’s a 3-star hotel, so don’t expect marble lobbies or infinity pools that look like something out of a magazine. But here’s the thing – the rating speaks for itself, and after staying here, I totally get why. The rooms are actually spacious (I’m talking proper space to spread out your dive gear if that’s your thing), and the air conditioning works like a dream, which honestly matters more than fancy thread counts when it’s 40 degrees outside. The balconies face different directions depending on your room, but even the ones without direct sea views catch these amazing breezes in the evening. I spent more time out there than I expected, just watching the kitesurfers in the distance and listening to the call to prayer echo across the lagoons – there’s something really peaceful about it.

What really got me was how the staff seemed to actually remember guests’ names and preferences. The breakfast setup isn’t huge, but they make fresh eggs however you want them, and the local honey is incredible – apparently they source it from somewhere inland, though I never did get the exact details. The pool area gets busy around mid-morning when families with kids show up, but if you’re an early riser like me, you’ll have it to yourself with your coffee and maybe some of those seagulls that seem to run the place. Parking is straightforward too, which sounds boring but you’ll appreciate it when you’re dragging suitcases in the heat. The beach access is through a short walk – nothing dramatic, but the water is that ridiculous Red Sea blue-green that makes you understand why people become obsessed with this coast. I saw decent snorkeling right off the shore, though the serious divers were heading out on boats to the better reefs. Check-in was surprisingly smooth for Egypt (sorry, but you know what I mean if you’ve traveled here before), and they actually had my room ready early, which saved my afternoon when I arrived exhausted from Cairo. It’s not going to win design awards, but sometimes you just want a place that works well, feels comfortable, and doesn’t cost a fortune so you can spend your money on the experiences that brought you to Egypt in the first place.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $38. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Gareth from United Kingdom – 9 June 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely apartment, nice and clean. Would stay again. Staff on site very helpful

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities