Maamoura Beach: a short guide

Where it is

Maamoura is a neighbourhood of the Montaza district in eastern Alexandria. It comes right after the Montaza gardens as you head east toward Abu Qir.

The beach and the gates

Maamoura Beach is a gated area. Visitors pay a fee at the gate, and the beach has its own charge.

Prices change, so we do not print them here. When you book we explain how entry works for apartment guests.

The promenade

The beach has a paved promenade along the water with ice cream shops and food stalls, set apart from the main road.

A summer address with a history

In its heyday Maamoura was where Cairo came to escape the heat. Egyptian Streets recalls visitors including presidents Gamal Abdel Nasser and Anwar El-Sadat and film stars Farid Shawki and Soad Hosny, along with an amusement park and an open-air beach cinema.

The site is believed to be ancient Menouthis, from the Ptolemaic era. Today it is a quieter place than in those summers.

When to come

Summer is the season, when Alexandria fills with holidaymakers. Travel guides recommend spring, March to May, for mild weather and fewer people.

Before you swim

Lonely Planet notes that the water can be treacherous when the sea is up, so check conditions before you go in.