Dahab is one of those places where it’s incredibly easy to settle in and accidentally stay longer than planned. With its laid-back atmosphere, waterfront cafes, incredible diving and beautiful views across the Red Sea, it’s a completely different experience from Egypt’s bustling cities.
But if you’re planning a trip, you might be wondering: where is the best place to stay in Dahab?
The good news is that Dahab is a relatively small, walkable town, so you don’t need to worry too much about choosing the wrong location. However, different areas offer slightly different experiences, from lively hostels and beachfront restaurants to quieter waterfront apartments.
During my visit, I stayed at Rafiki Hostel because I was travelling solo and wanted somewhere social where I could meet other travellers. However, if I returned to Dahab, I would probably choose a waterfront apartment or guesthouse somewhere overlooking the water.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Dahab, share my experience staying at Rafiki Hostel, and explain where I’d personally choose to stay next time.
Quick Answer: Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Dahab?
If you’re visiting Dahab for the first time, I’d recommend staying somewhere near the main waterfront promenade, particularly around Masbat/ Lighthouse.
This areaa has plenty of restaurants, cafes, dive centres and accommodation options within walking distance.
However, the best location really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Masbat, Lighthouse & Mashraba | First-time visitors, restaurants and diving |
| Eel Garden & Northern Waterfront | Quiet beachfront stays and longer visits |
| Central Dahab Hostels | Solo travellers and backpackers |
| Laguna | Resorts, water sports and relaxing holidays |
My personal recommendation: If you’re travelling solo and want to meet people, a social hostel like Rafiki is a great option. But if you’re after a more relaxing experience, I’d look for a waterfront apartment around the quieter stretches of Dahab’s promenade.
Understanding the Different Areas of Dahab
One of my favourite things about Dahab is how compact it is.
Unlike Cairo or other larger Egyptian destinations, you don’t need to spend ages researching neighbourhoods or worrying about transport every time you want to leave your accommodation.
Much of Dahab’s tourist activity is concentrated along its waterfront, where you’ll find restaurants, dive shops, cafes and small hotels overlooking the Red Sea.
The atmosphere changes slightly as you move along the coastline. Some sections are lively and filled with restaurants, while others are more residential, with beachfront apartments and guesthouses.
For most visitors, I would recommend staying within walking distance of the main promenade.
1. Masbat & Lighthouse: Best for First-Time Visitors
If you want to be right in the middle of Dahab’s main tourist area, Masbat and Lighthouse are excellent choices.
This is where you’ll find much of the town’s waterfront activity, including restaurants, cafes, shops and dive centres.
One of the best things about staying here is the convenience. You can wake up, grab a coffee overlooking the water, head out for a dive or snorkelling session, and spend the evening exploring the restaurants along the promenade.
The Lighthouse area is particularly convenient for anyone planning to spend plenty of time diving, with dive centres and shore-diving opportunities nearby.
The main downside is that these areas can be busier, particularly in the evenings when people gather along the waterfront for dinner.
I’d recommend this area for: First-time visitors, divers, and anyone who wants restaurants and cafes on their doorstep.
Where to Stay in Masbat & Lighthouse
Check prices and availability using the accommodation links above. Prices vary depending on your travel dates.
2. Eel Garden & Northern Waterfront: Best for a Relaxed, Local Atmosphere
If you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter while still being close to the centre of Dahab, I’d recommend considering Eel Garden and the northern waterfront.
This was actually one of my favourite areas of Dahab, and somewhere I’d personally love to stay if I returned!
While wandering along the waterfront north of Lighthouse, around Dai Pescatori, I noticed so many beautiful beachfront houses, apartments and guesthouses overlooking the Red Sea.
Compared to the busier restaurant-lined sections of the main promenade, this area felt much more peaceful and residential, while still being within easy walking distance of the cafés, restaurants and dive centres.
I remember walking around thinking that if I wanted to upgrade my accommodation during my trip, this is exactly where I’d want to move. It wasn’t somewhere I’d really considered when booking my accommodation, but after seeing it in person, I could absolutely imagine staying there on a return visit.
There’s something so appealing about waking up in a waterfront apartment, enjoying a coffee overlooking the Red Sea and spending your days diving, swimming and exploring Dahab at a slower pace.
For anyone planning to spend a week or longer in Dahab, I think this area would be particularly lovely. You get the benefit of a quieter atmosphere without feeling disconnected from the rest of town.
I’d recommend this area for: Couples, slow travellers, digital nomads and anyone looking for a peaceful beachfront stay.
Where to Stay in Eel Garden & Northern Waterfront
Check prices and availability using the accommodation links above. Prices vary depending on your travel dates.
3. Central Dahab Hostels: Best for Solo Travellers & Backpackers
If you’re travelling solo, I think staying in a hostel can be one of the easiest ways to meet people in Dahab.
Dahab attracts plenty of backpackers, divers and travellers spending longer periods in Egypt, making it a great destination for social travel.
I chose to stay at Rafiki Hostel specifically because I wanted a social environment.
When you’re travelling alone, having somewhere to meet other people can make such a difference, particularly if you want company for exploring, diving or heading out for dinner.
Even if you’re not usually a hostel person, it’s worth considering one if meeting other travellers is a priority.
I’d recommend this option for: Solo travellers, backpackers, budget travellers and anyone looking to make friends.
Where to Stay in Central Dahab
Rafiki Hostel
Where I stayed
Check prices and availability using the accommodation links above. Prices vary depending on your travel dates.
4. Laguna: Best for Resorts & Water Sports
If you’re looking for more of a traditional resort holiday, the Laguna area is another option.
Located further south of central Dahab, this area is known for its larger hotels, beach access and water sports, particularly windsurfing and kitesurfing.
It’s a different experience from staying in the heart of Dahab, with more space and resort-style facilities.
However, I personally think much of Dahab’s charm comes from wandering along the waterfront, stopping at small cafĂ©s and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
For that reason, I’d generally recommend staying closer to the main town unless you’re specifically looking for a resort or planning a water-sports-focused holiday.
I’d recommend this area for: Families, resort travellers and water-sports enthusiasts.
Where to Stay in Laguna
Check prices and availability using the accommodation links above. Prices vary depending on your travel dates.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Dahab
Before booking your accommodation in Dahab, there are a few things worth considering.
Check the exact location on a map. Dahab is small, but there’s a difference between staying on the main waterfront and booking a resort further out of town. If walking to cafĂ©s and restaurants is important, check the actual distance.
Consider whether you want somewhere social or private. Hostels are ideal if you want to meet people, while apartments and guesthouses are better suited to travellers looking for a quieter experience.
Look carefully at waterfront listings. Some accommodation offers direct sea views, while other properties may be a street or two back. If you’re paying extra for a waterfront stay, make sure you’re getting the view you expect.
Check the facilities. Air conditioning, Wi-Fi and hot water are all worth confirming, particularly if you’re booking budget accommodation or planning to work remotely.
Think about your diving plans. If you’re visiting Dahab primarily for scuba diving or freediving, staying close to your dive centre can make your mornings easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Dahab
What is the best area to stay in Dahab?
For most first-time visitors, I’d recommend staying around Masbat, Lighthouse or Mashraba. These areas offer convenient access to Dahab’s main waterfront, restaurants, cafĂ©s and dive centres.
Is Dahab walkable?
Yes! Dahab is a very walkable destination, particularly around the main tourist areas. You can explore much of the central waterfront on foot, although accommodation further out towards Laguna or beyond the town centre may require transport.
Is Dahab good for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Dahab is a popular destination for backpackers, divers and solo travellers. Staying somewhere social, such as Rafiki Hostel, can be a great way to meet people.
Should I stay in a hostel or hotel in Dahab?
It depends on your travel style. I’d recommend a hostel if you’re travelling solo and want to meet people. If you’re travelling as a couple, staying longer or simply want more privacy, a hotel, guesthouse or apartment might be a better option.
How many days should you stay in Dahab?
I’d recommend at least three to four days to enjoy the town and some of the surrounding activities. However, Dahab is also an excellent destination for a longer stay, particularly if you enjoy diving, slow travel or spending time by the sea.
Is it better to stay in Dahab or Sharm El Sheikh?
It depends on the experience you’re looking for. Dahab is known for its relaxed, independent-travel atmosphere, small guesthouses and diving community. Sharm El Sheikh has a much larger selection of traditional resorts and organised holiday facilities.
Personally, I’d choose Dahab for its atmosphere and slower pace.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Dahab?
Dahab is one of those destinations where I don’t think you can go too wrong with your accommodation, provided you choose somewhere that suits your travel style.
If you’re visiting for the first time and want to be close to everything, stay around the main waterfront in Masbat or Lighthouse.
If you’re travelling solo and want to meet people, I’d recommend considering a social hostel like Rafiki.
And if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, my personal choice would be a waterfront apartment or guesthouse around the quieter sections of the promenade, particularly near Hakuna Matata Dahab.
Ultimately, Dahab’s charm is in its simplicity. You don’t need an elaborate itinerary or luxury accommodation to enjoy it.
Sometimes all you need is a comfortable place to stay, a view of the Red Sea and nowhere in particular you need to be.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tours, hotels and services that I’ve personally used or genuinely believe will add value to your trip.
