Do you need water shoes for swimming in Egypt, and is it safe for kids?

For children, a shore that is entirely sandy with a gradually increasing depth is especially convenient; in Egypt, beaches where you can comfortably swim straight from shore like this are relatively uncommon.

Jazz Fanara has more dead-reef remnants near the shore than Reef Oasis, so water shoes are more advisable for children there. Reef Oasis has fewer such areas and also offers entry from a pontoon.

For kids, water shoes are a must if entering from the shore due to rocks. Even at high tide the water stays at most knee-deep.

Don't be discouraged by shallow water — kids can splash around and may spot a stingray and small fish without needing a mask or fins, since the water is clear and shallow enough to see everything. A bonus is not having to pack snorkeling gear.

Parents confirm kids handled swimming well, water was warm. Tip: choose a wind-sheltered bay for a better experience.

Sea depth varies a lot between hotels: some spots are shallow for kids and deep enough for adults, while at neighboring hotels the water can be only knee-deep — worth checking for the specific hotel.

If you need a smooth, rock-free beach entry for kids in Hurghada, Hotel Seagull has a gradual shore entry without corals. The downside is that marine life is sparse there, and it is a 4-star property.

Entering the sea from a pier or pontoon can actually offer a richer underwater experience — immediate depth means more marine life. For confident young swimmers this is an advantage rather than a drawback.

The sea entry is shallow and gradual — great for kids. You can go in without water shoes, but dead corals near the shoreline make them advisable for children. The water stays shallow for a while, so you can safely relax right at the water's edge.

Jellyfish are also present in Egyptian waters — worth keeping in mind when traveling with children. The sea is beautiful, but it's worth researching beach options in advance when going with kids.