Beach safety hazards in Hurghada: stingrays, water quality, and swimming rules

According to a guest review: buoys are set very close to the pontoon and swimming beyond them is normally forbidden. To swim in Naga Bay on the outer reef, the guest had to sign a waiver releasing the hotel from liability — only then was he allowed.

Another hazard: kitesurfers. The hotel placed their buoys only about 100m from shore, in ankle-to-knee-deep water, so surfers effectively ride among swimmers without technically breaking any rule. Many are beginners who may lose control, and the taut kite line poses a real injury risk.

At some hotels, swimmers still cross the buoy line — enforcement depends entirely on which lifeguard shift is on duty. Reportedly, cameras have been installed and lifeguards are now being held more accountable.

At one hotel, a drainage pipe — possibly sewage — discharges directly into the sea from the left side of the beach. Many guests are unaware of this and don't flag it as a significant issue.

A stingray was spotted right at the shoreline during a swim — nearly stepped on. Hotels don't warn guests or take any measures to deter them. Stingrays are genuinely dangerous: a tail strike can cause a serious wound.