El Gouna

## The spot El Gouna is a purpose-built resort town on Egypt's Red Sea coast, known for kitesurfing and windsurfing rather than wave riding. The shallow lagoons and consistent thermal winds create excellent conditions for wind sports. Surfable waves are effectively non-existent due to the enclosed nature of the Red Sea and offshore reef protection. ## When it works The Red Sea very rarely produces surfable waves at El Gouna. Occasional strong northerly winds create wind chop in the open areas, but the fringing reef and shallow lagoons prevent proper wave formation. This is a flat-water wind sports destination. ## Where to sit If any chop is rideable, it would be in the kite areas outside the lagoons. No defined surf spot exists. ## Hazards Shallow coral reef. Kitesurfers and windsurfers. Strong winds. Not a surfing environment. ## Parking and access Resort-style access. Full luxury facilities. Beach clubs and water sports centres. ## The crowd Non-existent for surfing. Packed with kitesurfers. ## Local tips Do not visit El Gouna for surfing. It is an excellent kitesurfing destination with reliable wind, warm water, and good infrastructure. If you want waves in Africa, look to Morocco, South Africa, or the Indian Ocean islands.