Honest Review of Steigenberger Coraya Beach: Is This Egypt’s Best Adults-Only Resort?

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Our Penguin Rating

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For our first trip to Egypt and a real vacation after a while, we wanted a place where we could relax, and an adults-only resort felt like the right fit. We also didn’t really know what to expect in terms of hospitality, especially with all the stories you hear about the bakshish culture, so we did a lot of thorough research before booking anything. We went through reviews, compared resorts, and tried to find somewhere that felt reliable and easy to use. In the end, we decided on the Steigenberger Coraya Beach, hoping it would offer the kind of calm, stress-free escape we were looking for.

Steigenberger Coraya Beach opened in 2008 and has been welcoming guests to the Red Sea ever since, building a long-standing reputation as a calm adults-only retreat focused on comfort, service, and relaxed holiday living. In 2021, the resort also underwent a refurbishment, giving parts of the property a fresher, more modern feel while still keeping its established character and laid-back atmosphere.

One of the things we really appreciated was the people working there. During our stay, we had the chance to chat with several staff members and quickly realized how strong the sense of community is within the hotel. For many of them, this is not just a seasonal job, as some have been working here for over 10 years, which says a lot about the place itself. With more than 350 employees on site, the service feels both experienced and genuinely personal, which adds a lot to the overall experience.

Location and Accessibility

📍 Address:  Al Qusair – Marsa Allam Rd, El Qoseir, Red Sea Governorate 1927230, Egypt

Steigenberger Coraya Beach is in southern Egypt, along the stunning Red Sea coast near Marsa Alam. The resort sits right in the heart of Coraya Bay, an area known for its calm, crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and excellent snorkeling and diving conditions. It’s a quieter part of Egypt than Hurghada, making it especially popular with everyone seeking a more relaxed beach escape. The closest airport is Marsa Alam International Airport, approximately 5 to 7 kilometers (about 3 to 4 miles) from Steigenberger Coraya Beach. In terms of travel time, it usually takes 10 to 15 minutes by car or transfer, depending on traffic and how many resort stops are included (shared shuttle transfers can take longer if other hotels are being dropped off first).

Getting to Steigenberger Coraya Beach is pretty easy and fast. We booked our trip through a travel agency, so we had a shared transfer from Marsa Alam International Airport included. The drive itself is really short, around 10 minutes if you go directly, but in our case, it took a bit longer since we had a few drop-offs at other hotels along the way. Nothing stressful, just something to keep in mind if you’re not in a rush to relax 😅. If you want a quicker and more direct ride, a private transfer is also a great option, and the hotel can usually help you arrange that in advance if you reach out to them.

Parking

If you rent a car while staying at Steigenberger Coraya Beach, parking is also available directly in front of the resort. It’s a dedicated area with on-site security, so it feels safe and well-maintained. It’s a good option if you want to explore the Marsa Alam area at your own pace. Just make sure to double-check in advance whether parking is included in your booking or if there is any small fee, as this can sometimes depend on the reservation type.

Resort Area & What’s Around

Steigenberger Coraya Beach is set within Coraya Bay, which is more of a dedicated resort area than a traditional town, so everything around it feels calm, private, and focused on relaxation. Instead of shops and city streets, you’ll mainly find other resorts along the bay, beach promenades, and access points for snorkeling and diving. It’s the kind of place where the surroundings are more about the sea and resort landscape than everyday city life, which really adds to the peaceful atmosphere. For anything outside the resort, most guests rely on organized excursions or transfers rather than walking around locally.  

The closest notable city to Steigenberger Coraya Beach is El Quseir, located north along the Red Sea coast. It’s one of the older settlements in this part of Egypt, with a history stretching back thousands of years, and was once known as Tjau. Today, it’s a small coastal city that still keeps a more local Egyptian feel compared to the resort areas, with simple streets, markets, and a glimpse into everyday life outside the hotel zone. It’s about 68 kilometers (around 42 miles) away, which by car takes roughly 15 minutes, so it is definitely not within walking distance. The hotel can also help arrange transfers there if you want to explore beyond the Coraya Bay area and see a more authentic side of the region.

Coraya Bay, where Steigenberger Coraya Beach is, is really all about what’s happening under the water. The coral reefs here are calm, well-protected, and full of life, making snorkeling and diving among the main highlights of the area. You can expect to see colorful reef fish like butterflyfish, parrotfish, clownfish, and angelfish, and if you are lucky, even rays or small reef sharks passing by in the deeper channels. The water is usually super clear and calm, so even beginners can enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed.

Another place worth mentioning is Port Ghalib, the closest proper marina to Steigenberger Coraya Beach. It’s a modern port town with a mix of yachts, restaurants, cafés, and a relaxed waterfront promenade. You can waddle along the marina, grab a drink or dinner, and enjoy watching the boats come in and out.

Overall, there are no major traditional Egyptian attractions right next to Steigenberger Coraya Beach. The closest major historical destination is Luxor, which is roughly a four-hour drive away, so it’s more of a dedicated day trip rather than something you casually visit during your stay. But honestly, this time we didn’t come to Egypt for sightseeing or ticking off ancient landmarks, so we were not really looking for that kind of itinerary around the resort.

And to be completely fair, the resort itself makes it very easy not to feel like you are missing out on anything. You get into such a relaxed rhythm there that you don’t feel the need to leave. We know it sounds a bit dramatic, but once you settle in, you will understand exactly what we mean.

Check-In Experience

We had a very early flight, around 1 a.m., and by the time we arrived at Steigenberger Coraya Beach, it was already around 6 a.m., so still very early in the morning. We didn’t know what to expect at that hour, especially whether our room would be ready or if we would need to wait until the usual check-in time around 2 p.m., but from the moment we stepped onto the hotel grounds, we were treated like royalty.

We were welcomed straight away with a private check-in in a relaxed lobby area, without even managing to reach the reception desk. The staff seated us in the beautiful lobby, brought fresh, cool towels to refresh us after the journey, along with a welcome drink, and, in the meantime, explained everything we needed to know about the resort, where everything is, and how things work. After that, a member of the reception team personally offered to take us to our room. They accompanied us all the way, showed us around the room, explained the features and what we could find where, and only then left us to settle in.

Even our luggage was completely taken care of. As soon as we got off the transfer bus, the next time we saw our suitcases was inside our room, delivered by the porter without us having to think about it. Having experienced quite a few hotel check-ins over time, we can confidently say this was the smoothest and most impressive check-in experience we have ever had.

The reception is open 24/7, so no matter what time of day or night you need something, there is always someone available to help. The check-in on the day of arrival is from 2:00 pm, and check-out on the day of departure is until 12:00 pm. The team there is very accommodating and incredibly helpful, and you never feel like you are bothering anyone. One piece of advice we would give is: don’t be shy about asking for anything. During our first couple of days, we actually held back a bit because we already felt so well taken care of. The staff is more than happy to assist with anything you need, whether it’s a small request like more water or something else. If something is missing or you need support, the reception will do its best to resolve it.

There is usually more than one staff member at the desk, and communication is never an issue as the team speaks English, German, and French.

Room and Amenities

Steigenberger Coraya Beach has a total of 364 hotel rooms, arranged in low-rise bungalow-style buildings across the resort. We loved this setup because it feels like you are waddling through a small village. The rooms are spread throughout the property and face either the sea, the pool areas, or the gardens.

The rooms come in several categories depending on view and layout. You can choose between Superior and Deluxe rooms, both with sea, pool, or garden views and typically offering twin beds or a queen setup. There are also Junior Suites, which offer more space and a double bed, usually overlooking the pool or the sea. Overall, the main differences between the room types are the views and sizes: the smallest rooms start at around 34 m², and larger suites reach about 60 m², so all room types feel quite spacious. The basic setup remains quite consistent across the resort.

We initially booked a Deluxe room with Garden View, but at check-in, we were told we had been upgraded to a Deluxe with Sea View. Going from a garden view to a sea view made a noticeable difference, and it was a really nice surprise to start the stay with.

Room Review

We stayed in room 1118 (asked for it when booking; you will love it), and as we waddled into the room, we were nothing short of impressed. The layout is quite spacious. The bathroom is directly in front of the entrance, while the wardrobe is on the left for all your belongings. As we moved further into the room, we noticed a large double bed with nightstands on both sides and an oriental touch in the design. The bed itself was really big, and the mattresses were on the firmer side, which worked perfectly for us since we prefer that over overly soft mattresses. If you like softer beds, it is just something to keep in mind. Two pillows were provided, but if neither suits you, the hotel also offers a pillow menu, so you can choose from a range of options by simply asking reception; they are more than happy to bring you what you prefer.

Next to the bed is a small window facing east, which turned out to be one of our favorite details. We could wake up with the sunrise right in front of us, and it was one of those moments when you are half awake, look outside, and see a bright orange sky filling the room. It was such a nice way to start the day. The blanket on the bed was also one large blanket, and for once, we didn’t feel the need for separate duvets, even though we usually prefer them. It just worked well.

Below the window, there is still extra space for storing or placing small items, and on the other side of the room, there is also enough room to leave things like books or personal items if you don’t want to use the nightstand. Next to the nightstands are power sockets above them, making it very convenient to charge your devices right next to the bed.

Moving further into the room, there is a seating area with a couch, a small table, and two chairs. On arrival, the table had a welcome plate with fruit, nuts, chocolates, and macarons. We were quite hungry after the journey, so we started eating it right away. We tried everything, and we highly recommend the green chocolate hearts; they were really good. On the other hand,the macarons were disappointing. A proper macaron should have a light, crisp shell on the outside, a soft, slightly chewy center, and a smooth filling that brings everything together. These, however, were quite dry and crumbly, lacked that chewy middle, and broke apart too easily when biting into them, which made them feel less fresh.

Somewhere in the middle of the stay, the reception called us and said they would send something to the room. Shortly after, a staff member came and refilled the same plate again with fruit, chocolates, and macarons. It happened right when we thought we had eaten about half of it, so it had to be topped up again before we even finished the first round.

The Bathroom 

The bathroom is right in front of you as you enter the room, and there is plenty of space. On the left, you have the toilet, and on the right, a large mirror with a sink and a wide countertop for your toiletries. During our stay, the sink faucet leaked a bit, so after a day at the beach, we would come back to a small puddle of water around it. We mentioned it at reception, and it was fixed within about 10 minutes; they handled it very quickly.  

There was also a set of complimentary items, including a vanity kit, a shaving kit, a kit for female guests, and more. If anything was missing, there is also a QR code you can scan to request additional items, which get restocked quite quickly. One thing we noticed is that the soap for handwashing is placed a bit farther from the sink, which makes it slightly inconvenient to use.

The shower area is spacious, with shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel provided. In the shower, the hot water can also take a while to come through, and when it does, it can get very hot quite quickly, so you need to adjust it carefully. It caught us off guard the first time, but after that, it was fine. On the positive side, the water pressure is very good, and towels are provided and can be changed daily if needed.

Storage and Mini Bar Area

There is also plenty of practical space in the room, including a luggage rack and a minibar cabinet. The minibar is stocked with fresh water that is replenished daily, and soft drinks are included. There is also a TV, which we didn’t really use, a coffee and tea setup with a kettle, glasses, and snacks available for purchase.

A large wardrobe as you enter a room is also here. It covers basically one wall. Inside, there is a small safe for valuables, plenty of hangers for clothes, and also two bathrobes and complimentary slippers that we use during our stay. The storage space is more than enough, and even our suitcases fit in the wardrobe, so they weren’t just lying around in the room.

The only small downside is that the wardrobe is a bit on the older side. On the one hand, it fits the overall style and adds to the room’s more oriental feel, which we liked visually. On the other hand, it was a bit harder to close properly; you had to push it firmly, and it made a louder sound when closing. In the mornings, especially when going out early, we were a bit careful not to wake anyone.

Terrace with Sea View

We left the best part of the room for last, the small terrace. It came with a table and two chairs, and looked straight out over the Red Sea.  From here, we could see the small bay area on the right, which made the view even better.

There was also a rack for drying wetsuits and swimwear after a day at the beach or snorkeling, which was really practical. The terrace itself had enough space to sit comfortably in the evening, so it became one of those spots where we would sit outside, relax, and take in the view.

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Culinary Experiences at Steigenberger Coraya Beach

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As much as a room can be nice and the facilities can be well set up, for us, it really comes down to the food in the end. So let’s break it down and see what the dining experience is actually like during the stay.

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Restaurants

Al Maha Main Restaurant

Al Maha Main Restaurant is the main restaurant where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served buffet-style. It is very close to the reception, so it is easy to reach from most parts of the resort. The opening hours are breakfast from 6:00 to 10:30, lunch from 12:30 to 14:30, and dinner from 18:30 to 21:30. This is also where the themed buffet nights take place, so the menu changes slightly depending on the day and the concept. A staff member always greets you upon entry, and there is also quick table allocation or guidance to a free seat, so you don’t have to look for a place yourself. There is also a general dress code to keep in mind. It’s not overly strict, but you should avoid going into the restaurant in swimwear and make sure you are properly covered and wearing shoes. Flip-flops are fine during breakfast and lunch, so it stays quite relaxed during the day. However, in the evening, at dinner time, the dress code becomes a bit more formal, so it’s expected that guests dress a bit more appropriately than at daytime meals. The seating area is spacious inside, with a nice oriental design, and there is also a large terrace if you prefer to eat outside. What also stood out was that between the different food stations, you had the option to add your own spices or build your own salad, and there was always enough space to actually put your plate down while doing it, which is something that is often missing in other resorts, where you end up balancing your plate while serving yourself.

Breakfast

Breakfast is served buffet-style. Once you sit down, the staff come around and ask if you want coffee or tea. At times it can feel quite frequent, but if you leave your cups a bit aside, they usually don’t ask again and just let you enjoy your breakfast in peace.

The buffet itself has a wide selection. Chefs are preparing fresh egg dishes on the spot, like fried eggs, scrambled eggs, and omelets. You also get a mix of Egyptian and international breakfast options, including cold cuts, fresh vegetables, different types of bread, pastries, yogurt, and fresh fruit. There is also a drinks section with fresh juices, milk options including lactose-free, almond, and soy, plus coffee machines for cappuccinos and other hot drinks. Smoothies are also available and are worth trying. Overall, it is easy to change it up every day, whether you go for something sweet, savory, or a mix of both. We would give the breakfast 5 out of 5 stars. Most of our pictures are from Al Maha 😅 in general, as everything was nicely set up and the area was very well designed.

Lunch

We also tried lunch a few times here, and it follows the same buffet-style setup as breakfast. The same live cooking stations are available, with chefs preparing fresh dishes during lunch service. You can mix and match quite easily between international options and more Egyptian-style dishes, along with cold cuts, fresh vegetables, and fresh fruit. There is also a dessert section available at lunch, although we will go into more detail about desserts in the dinner part.

Dinner

Dinner is also served buffet-style in Al Maha Main Restaurant, as with breakfast and lunch. The main difference is that dinner tends to feel busier and a bit more rushed compared to the other meals, since more guests arrive around the same time. But only in the food area, once you sit down, it feels calmer again.

You still have live cooking stations where chefs prepare fresh dishes on request, including curries and other hot meals, depending on the evening. The food selection is again very broad, with international dishes, Egyptian options, cold cuts, fresh vegetables, fruit, and a full dessert section.

During dinner, there is a stricter dress code than during daytime meals, so guests are expected to be properly dressed, with covered shoulders and more formal beachwear replaced by evening outfits. We also liked that dinner themes change throughout the week, including international nights and oriental-themed evenings, sometimes with an accompanying program. This keeps the experience different each evening while still offering the same wide variety of food choices.

Desserts deserve a separate mention. In many buffet-style resorts, desserts can feel quite mass-produced and overly sweet, but that was not the case here. The pastry section changed regularly, with different options almost every day, and everything was presented in a way that felt fresh rather than repetitive.

We have to give credit to the pastry chef here, because both the presentation and the variety stood out. The desserts were not overly sweet, including the Egyptian ones, which was a nice surprise. We tried quite a range during our stay, and everything felt light, fresh, and well-balanced, rather than heavy or artificial.

Al Fayruz Restaurant

Al Fayruz Restaurant is an à la carte restaurant focusing on Mediterranean cuisine. It is open for lunch from 12:00 to 15:00 and for dinner à la carte from 19:00 to 21:30. During our stay, we visited both for lunch and dinner.

We went here for lunch once, and it was a nice change from the buffet style. You don’t need a reservation; you can waddle in, and the staff will guide you to a free table. The service was very nice, accommodating, and prompt. For food, we tried the Egyptian noodle soup, which was basically a chicken broth and really good, especially after a day when one of us had a slightly upset stomach. We also had the fish and chips, which were solid and had good portion sizes. We also ordered a pizza Margherita, which unfortunately didn’t stand out. The dough felt more like it was pre-made or frozen and not baked properly, and it lacked the typical fresh basil that usually defines a proper Margherita.

We also had dinner on our second day here, and it already felt like a completely different experience compared to lunch. Guests were more dressed up, the atmosphere felt a bit more refined, and we had a reservation for 6:30 pm. After giving our name on arrival, we were welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine and then guided to our table with a view over the Red Sea. The service was very attentive from the start. Before the starter, we were served small snacks with different spreads, and the waiter also brought a bread basket so we could choose from a selection of fresh breads. One detail we really liked was that they placed a small lamp on the table when handing over the menu, making it easier to read while choosing. For food, we started with a caprese salad, which was fresh, and salmon with lemon, which was also very good. For mains, we both went for fish dishes, and the portions were well-balanced and satisfying. Overall, it was a very smooth and enjoyable dinner experience.

At Steigenberger Coraya Beach, you have the two main restaurants on-site, but there is also a “Dine Around” optionwithin Madinat Coraya that lets you try additional restaurants in the sister resort next door. These include Basilico (Italian), Zaytoun (Oriental), and Rocca (Asian). All of them need to be pre-booked through the reception between 9:00 and 15:00, which makes it easy to plan if you want a change from the main dining options. To give a full picture of the dining experience, we also tried all three during our stay, which added a nice change from the resort’s main restaurants.

Basilico Restaurant

We visited Basilico, the Italian restaurant, as the first of the three restaurants, but overall, the experience felt a bit mixed.

The atmosphere didn’t feel very natural or homey, and while the staff was trying their best, the service didn’t feel fully authentic. The food itself was average overall. The seafood salad and carpaccio were both quite standard and didn’t stand out much. The white house wine, however, was actually good.

We tried two pasta dishes. The carbonara didn’t feel quite right compared to a traditional version. Classic Italian carbonara is usually made with egg, Pecorino Romano or Parmesan, guanciale or pancetta, and black pepper, without ingredients like dried tomatoes. In this case, the addition of dried tomatoes didn’t really work in the dish and disrupted the expected flavor balance. On the other hand, the pistachio pesto pasta was much better and actually one of the more enjoyable dishes of the evening. Interestingly, while the dried tomatoes didn’t fit the carbonara, they were actually one of the better versions we have tasted in terms of flavor on their own.

The white house wine was good, and the highlight of the evening was definitely the tiramisu. It had a strong coffee flavor, a soft, soaked biscuit layer, and a slight fruity hint at the end. It could have been a bit creamier, but it was still easily the best part of the dinner. Overall, a mixed experience with a few highlights but also some clear inconsistencies.

Zaytoun Restaurant

The staff was very friendly and welcoming, and even the restaurant manager came over to say hello, which was a nice personal touch. The atmosphere is quite calm and slightly dim, with a nice low-light setup. Seating is partly in an open-air space, so it feels airy, but it can get a bit cooler in the evening depending on the weather. Service was very quick and attentive. Drinks were ordered immediately, bread selection arrived fast, and overall, the service felt very responsive. At one point, an empty glass was taken away and replaced within seconds, demonstrating the staff’s attentiveness. For starters, we had falafel, which was freshly made and tasted good, though slightly firmer from frying. For the main course, we had lamb kofta, which was the highlight of the meal, very well seasoned and flavorful. For dessert, we tried mahalabeya, a traditional Egyptian pudding with condensed fruit topping, which was also a good choice. One thing to note is that portions are quite generous, so it’s worth coming hungry. Overall, a solid experience with very good service and a few standout dishes.

Rocca Restaurant

Our last evening was spent at Rocca, the Asian restaurant, and it turned out to be our weakest dining experience of the stay. It already started a bit off with the setup, as the menu did not match the QR code version we studied in advance, and the chopsticks were very low-quality for a 5-star resort. We had one pair that needed replacement because it had splinters, and it took 3 new pairs to get one functioning. While they were happy to exchange them, the ones we had before didn’t feel very polished, especially in an Asian restaurant where chopsticks should really be part of the experience.

The food had a few highlights. The gyoza were well-made with a good filling, and the tuna tataki was fine, though the ginger felt unnecessary and detracted from the dish’s balance. The salad and wasabi were good, with the wasabi being nicely strong. The Kamo Katsu, breaded duck breast served with tonkatsu sauce, was also well-cooked and tasty, but the pairing with rice (almost like risotto) felt off; white rice would have been more authentic. The world-famous Sweet & Sour Chicken dish was a disappointment, with a sauce that felt too tomato-heavy and too thin, like a soup.

Desserts were better, especially the ice cream tempura, while the dessert labeled as tart turned out to be more of a cheesecake. Overall, compared to the other restaurants, Rocca didn’t feel as consistent in execution or attention to detail.

After trying all the restaurants, we would rank them: Zaytoun in first place, followed by Al Fayruz, then Basilico, and finally Rocca.

If we had to narrow it down to just two, we would definitely skip Rocca and Basilico and stick with Zaytoun and Al Fayruz, as these two stood out the most in terms of overall experience, food quality, and service consistency.

Overall, the restaurants in the sister resorts, like Basilico, Zaytoun, and Rocca, felt a bit more formal and less relaxed than Al Fayruz. That slightly more staged atmosphere sometimes made the dining experience less enjoyable.

Bedouin Dinner

The Bedouin dinner is not an official restaurant, but an experience offered every Thursday. You can join it in a traditional Bedouin tent, and we were lucky enough to be invited on our first day, which made it the perfect way to end the evening. It’s a mix of culture and food, offering a brief insight into Bedouin traditions, the chance to take photos, and a traditional setup with locally prepared dishes. There is an extra cost of around 50 euros per person, but honestly, it feels worth it. If you get the chance while staying here, we definitely recommend booking it.

Take a look at their facilities and menu by following this link.

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Bars

At Steigenberger Coraya Beach, there are several bars located around the beach and pool areas. During our stay, we also tried all of them to get a full picture of the drink and daytime service experience across the resort.

Palmito Beach Bar

Palmito Beach Bar was basically our daily stop whenever we were at the beach. You don’t need to waddle anywhere for drinks. The staff there are very fast and accommodating, and you don’t even need to leave your sunbed. You can order from the beach, and everything, including drinks and water bottle refills, is brought directly to you while you relax, which makes the whole beach setup very convenient. And when you order coffee at the beach, it comes in proper ceramic cups, not disposable ones, which honestly makes it much nicer to drink by the sea.

We also stopped here for snacks on one of the days. If you are not too hungry after the breakfast buffet, this is a good alternative instead of going straight into a full lunch. They offer a simple selection of sandwiches; you sit down, order, and they will bring it to your table. There is also ice cream in the fridge, which you can grab anytime.

Margarita Pool Bar

The Margarita Pool Bar was probably our second-favorite bar on the resort. It’s located right in the main pool area, and you have two options depending on how you feel. You can either stay on your sunbed and order drinks, with staff bringing everything directly to you, or you can walk into the pool, which is only waist-deep, and go straight up to the bar in the middle of it. The setup makes it really easy to switch between swimming and relaxing without ever leaving the water for long, and you can even grab a coffee or cocktail while still in the pool, which makes it a very relaxed and convenient spot during the day. There was also live music from 15:00 for one hour every day.

Night & Day Lobby Bar

The Night & Day Lobby Bar had the worst atmosphere of any bar we visited. The drink selection is basically the same as in the other bars across the resort, so there is nothing wrong with the offering itself, and the service and drinks were still good.

The main issue was the vibe inside, which didn’t really stand out or feel inviting compared to the other areas. The nicest spot was actually outside near the fireplace, where the setting felt a bit more relaxed, but indoors, it didn’t really givemuch in terms of atmosphere.

Zuzu’s Bar

Zuzu’s Bar was our favorite bar overall. The interior decor is really well done, and there are also two billiards tables if you want to play a game while having a drink. What made it stand out for us was the combination of indoor and outdoor seating. Inside has a nice setup for a relaxed evening, but we actually spent most of our evenings outside, where the views over the resort area are really good, and it just felt like the best place to wind down at the end of the day.

Overall, the drink selection was consistent in all bars. The house wines were very good, especially the rosé, which we can definitely recommend. Cocktails were also well-made, generally refreshing and balanced, with the alcohol not overpowering the mix; for example, the piña colada was smooth and easy to drink.

What really stood out, though, were the mocktails. In most places, these are usually an afterthought, but here they were genuinely good and something we kept ordering throughout the stay. We also tried the Egyptian lassi quite often, which was very enjoyable and refreshing, especially during the hot afternoons.

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Facilities and Services

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The Beach Area

The beach area is very well set up and feels practical from the moment you arrive. There is a proper shower, a small changing booth, and a drying rack, all located close to the beach bar, which makes it easy to use before and after swimming. Access to the sea is also very straightforward; you can waddle directly into the water without any effort.

There are plenty of sunbeds available, all placed under umbrellas with wind and privacy screens, so you always have your own space. We never had an issue finding a spot, even later in the day, although the front rows by the sea are usually taken earlier in the morning. Beach service is also active, with drinks brought directly to your sunbed, which makes it very convenient.

A nice extra detail is the availability of water noodles at both the beach and the pool, which you can use for floating or snorkeling support. There are also benches where you can sit and prepare your snorkeling gear, and even small racks for flip-flops to keep the area tidy. Overall, everything is thought through in a very simple and functional way.

Pool Area & Relaxation

The pool area is designed in the same spirit as the rest of the resort: calm, spacious, and focused on comfort rather than crowds. The resort features three outdoor pools, giving you enough variety to switch between different spots depending on your mood. 

One of the pools is centered around the pool bar, which is more of a social and lively area. It’s shallow, roughly waist-deep, making it perfect for cooling off while still being able to stand, chat, and even order drinks directly from the water. The other two pools are slightly deeper and better suited for proper swimming, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere if you prefer to float or do a few laps.

What stands out, though, is the service. You don’t need to move much once you settle on your sunbed. Staff regularly walk around the pool areas, checking if you would like anything, whether it’s water, coffee, or a cocktail, and everything is brought directly to you. It creates a very easy, comfortable setup where you can spend hours by the pool without ever needing to leave your spot.

Alwalimah Tent

The Alwalimah Tent is a nice addition to the overall resort setup. It’s a large pavilion-style tent that is open during the day, so you can waddle in, sit down, and relax in the shade for a bit.
From around 18:00 onwards, it becomes more of an evening spot where you can sit, have drinks, and also enjoy shisha for an additional charge of around 10 euros. It has a warm, relaxed atmosphere and adds a cultural touch to the stay. This is also where the Bedouin dinner takes place, which makes the whole experience feel even more authentic.

The Tower

Right in the middle of the resort is a small elevated tower we randomly discovered, and no one on staff mentioned it to us. We first noticed it while sitting at Zuzu’s bar and decided to check it out, and it turned out to be a really nice hidden spot. The tower is accessible 24/7, and once you go up, you get great views over the whole resort and even the nearby mountains. We went there for sunset once, and it was definitely worth it, but it would also be a perfect spot for sunrise. It’s one of those quiet little places that not many people seem to know about, but it’s definitely worth checking out.

The Gym

Staying active at the resort is quite easy, whether you prefer the gym or going for a run. We also went to the gym for a workout, and while it’s on the smaller side, it has everything you need: a mix of machines, a workout area, towels, and water available. Overall, it gets the job done and is perfectly fine for keeping up with your routine. The gym is air-conditioned and open from 7 am to 7 pm. If you want an earlier start, ask reception for the keys.
What we enjoyed more, though, were the morning runs. There is a dedicated walkway around the area that’s about 2.1 km long, making it perfect for an easy morning run before breakfast.

Mividaspa

Mividaspa is one of the largest spa and beauty salon chains in Egypt, known for its wide range of wellness services and trained staff. At the resort, it’s easy to learn about what they offer, as team members walk around the beach and pool areas and can explain the treatments. What we appreciated was that they were not pushy at all. If you’re interested, they will talk you through it; if not, they move on.

To get a full experience, we tried the spa on our last day, starting with a VIP pedicure. The treatment itself was thorough, although not the most relaxing at times, as it felt a bit rushed and slightly rough in parts. The session was supposed to last around 50–55 minutes, but ended a bit quicker, and the chair setup didn’t fully allow you to lean back and relax. That said, the salon itself is clean and well-maintained, with multiple manicure and pedicure stations, and they also offer beverages during the treatment. The highlight of the pedicure was the massage with a hot wax pouch, which was relaxing and felt like it improved circulation.

We also tried a men’s haircut, which was a much better overall experience. It was detailed, well done, and definitely worth the price. It included not just the haircut but also beard shaping, eyebrows, and even a razor finish, making it feel like a complete grooming session rather than just a basic cut. The pedicure is not something we would go again, but the men’s haircut we highly recommend. Overall, we charged an additional 115 euros to your room, which you will pay at check-out.

There are also plenty of other facilities to help you stay active during your stay, so it’s easy to keep moving if you want to.

• Squash courts
• Tennis courts
• Ping pong table
• Outdoor workout and wellness area
• Daily beach volleyball
• Yoga sessions under a tree
• And much more

Overall, there’s a good mix of activities you can join without needing to leave the resort.

Animation Team

The animation team by Magic World Entertainment does a really good job at keeping things lively throughout the day and evening. Daily shows and live singers are performing on a small stage between the lobby and the pool area, usually starting around dinner time. We saw a few different performers during our stay, which added a nice touch to the evenings without being too loud or overwhelming.

There is also an amphitheater where additional shows take place regularly. We watched traditional belly dancing, which was our favorite performance, as well as a Beyoncé tribute show with very good dancers. The only small downside is that some amphitheater shows and live music near the bars sometimes overlap, making it hard to catch both. We would have loved to see everything, but had to choose between the two depending on the evening.

Room Service & Housekeeping

Room service is available throughout the day with extended hours, making it easy to order food or anything else you might need directly to your room whenever required.
What really stood out for us, though, was the housekeeping. Our housekeeper, Ibrahim, was one of the best we’ve experienced. He was always very prompt, and often already ready to exchange our beach towels the moment he saw us returning from the pool or beach. Our room was always perfectly cleaned and well maintained, but the real highlight were the towel animals he left behind after each cleaning. We won’t lie, we actually started looking forward to coming back to see what he had prepared next.

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Cocktail Party

In the middle of our stay, we received a personal invitation from the general manager and the team to attend a cocktail party at Zuzu’s Bar starting at 6 pm. It was a really nice gesture and a great mid-stay touch.

Upon arrival, the management team greeted guests, and later the general manager went from table to table to gather feedback and check how the stay was going. It felt very personal and open, without being formal or forced.

It was also a good opportunity to meet other guests. Interestingly, most of the people we spoke to were there for the first time, which made it feel like a relaxed meet-and-greet rather than a structured event. Overall, it was a simple but very thoughtful experience that added something extra to the stay.

Other Services & Amenities

Beyond the main facilities, there are also a few extra services around the resort that make everything quite convenient.

• Shopping alley just left of the lobby with small stores, souvenir shops, and essentials like snorkeling gear, magnets, postcards, etc.
• On-site diving center with equipment rental and diving trips
• Small shops outside the resort for additional items
• A hall with ATMs where you can withdraw cash if needed

Overall, you can basically get most things you might need without leaving the area too far.

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The whole stay at Steigenberger Coraya Beach really didn’t disappoint us and actually surprised us in the best possible way. Everything runs smoothly and with a clear focus on detail.

What made it stand out the most were the small things, especially the individual approach to guests. From a glasses-cleaning service moving around the beach and pool area to little unexpected touches like a staff member literally helping with flies on the beach, it all added a very personal layer to the experience. We also appreciated the staff member going around the pool and beach areas, offering an ice cream selection. 

Everything in the resort is designed to make things easy and comfortable, from changing rooms placed around key areas to showers and practical facilities before you even think about needing them. It’s these small details that make the stay feel well thought through and genuinely special.

What really stands out at Steigenberger Coraya Beach is the feedback culture. They actively collect feedback throughout the stay, not only if you choose to give it yourself, but also in a very structured way during dinner, when we received a printed questionnaire to fill in and hand back directly to the staff.

What makes the difference here is not just that they ask for feedback, but that they actually act on it very quickly. A small example from our stay: during one of the dinners, we mentioned that we would prefer three bottles of water in the room instead of two. By the time we returned after dinner, the extra bottles were already waiting for us in the room. It’s a simple thing, but it shows that feedback isn’t just collected; it is really implemented in real time.

The Staff

What really makes a stay stand out is the people. A hotel can have great facilities and look perfect on paper, but without good staff, the experience can easily fall apart. Here, the staff is a huge part of what makes everything work so smoothly.

It’s very clear that many of them have been working here for a long time and function really well as a team. They are attentive without being intrusive, always checking whether everything is okay or if anything needs fixing, and handling things immediately when needed. At the same time, it never feels overwhelming or pushy; there is a good balance where you still have your space.

What also stood out is how friendly and open many of them are. If they speak English, German, or other languages, they are always happy to chat a bit, and it never feels forced. Most importantly, there is a genuine smile behind it, which made the interactions feel natural and welcoming throughout the whole stay.

It doesn’t really matter if it’s a waiter, receptionist, or manager at Steigenberger Coraya Beach, everyone is very attentive and willing to help in a natural way. A small example that really stood out to us was at Turtle Island, where two turtles live in a small sanctuary.

When we arrived, a gardener was cutting the grass nearby, but the moment he saw us, he stopped straight away so we could enjoy the area in peace. When we couldn’t find the turtles, he actually called us over, took us to the right spot, and even helped us see them properly and take photos and videos. He waited until we were done, and only went back to his work after we left. It’s a small moment, but it really shows the level of care and attention from the staff here.

Overall, tipping is not expected, and the staff never gives you the impression that it is required. Tips are, of course, always appreciated, but there is no pressure around it at all.
That said, because we were genuinely very happy with some aspects of the service, we left a few tips ourselves. At times, we had to push for the staff to accept them. With the level of service we experienced, it naturally made us want to tip certain people as a small thank-you.

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Value For Money

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For our stay at Steigenberger Coraya Beach from 9 April to 15 April 2026, we paid €2,128.40 for two people, including flights booked through a travel agency, so we did manage to get a good package deal. Considering this was a full week stay with flights included, the price felt more than fair for what we experienced on site. The overall value exceeded the level of service, facilities, and dining options available throughout the resort. Even without the package deal, the experience would still justify the cost, as everything from service quality to attention to detail and the range of amenities was consistently well delivered.

None of the points mentioned above as cons had any real impact on our stay or overall enjoyment. In fact, it’s quite difficult to even come up with meaningful comments because most of what we noted are really just small details or personal preferences in an otherwise very smooth experience. We also shared a few minor observations directly with the hotel management, and we won’t even mention them here, as we are confident they were already addressed before anyone would read this review.

All Ratings

Category	Rating
Location and Accessibility	⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Cleanliness	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Comfort	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Staff and Service	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value for Money	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Dining and Food Quality	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amenities	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Check-In/Check-Out	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
WiFi and Connectivity	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Experience	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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