The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the cleanliness and the heated pools, often calling it the best value luxury in Sharm.
Steigenberger Alcazar
$190-320/ night
Book this if You want a massive, glistening pool sanctuary where the food is actually good and you don't mind a long walk (or buggy ride) to the sea.
Why People Love It
- Three massive heated pools (in winter) that actually feel warm
- Seven restaurants included in the All-Inclusive plan, with standout Lebanese and Seafood options
- Immaculate grounds and modern, spacious rooms that feel far more expensive than the nightly rate
Quick Take: A stunning desert palace that nails the 'luxury resort' vibe perfectly, as long as you accept that the 'beach' is for looking, not swimming.
Reviewed by @tix_creates: I honestly didn't expect to find this level of luxury while traveling with a toddler. From the incredible sushi to the shallow pools where my little one played for hours, everything was just easy. It felt like a real vacation for us parents, not just a trip for the kid.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'All Inclusive' has caveats: imported alcohol costs extra, and you need to book the à la carte restaurants via a kiosk that fills up fast.
- You are a pool person, not a beach wader
- You appreciate high-end gym facilities and a serious spa
- You want a quiet, relaxing vibe rather than a party hard atmosphere
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.7
- Housekeeping: Exceptional. Reviews consistently mention 'spotless' rooms and creative towel art.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Marble surfaces are kept polished, and grout lines are clean.
- Maintenance: Top-tier. The hotel is relatively new (opened ~2017) and shows very little wear and tear.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and high quality, though beach towels can sometimes feel a bit worn from the salt/sun.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of signature oud/floral scent; no musty odors reported in rooms.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Poolside music during the day if you have a swim-up room
- Occasional hallway noise in main buildings
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the hotel app immediately to book restaurant reservations; they open 2 days in advance.
- The 'Ultra All Inclusive' includes local spirits only; bring your own duty-free if you want specific brands.
- Golf carts (buggies) circulate constantly to take you to the beach, but you might wait 5-10 mins during peak times.
What to pack
- Reef shoes (essential if you plan to walk near the water line)
- Strong hair conditioner (water is hard and can dry out hair)
- Mosquito repellent (evenings can be buggy near the gardens)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Swim-up Suites in the 'Relaxation Pool' area for adults-only peace
- Cluster 6 for closest access to the beach and jetty
- Superior Rooms in the main building for easy access to the lobby and breakfast buffet
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms facing the main family pool if you want to nap during the day (animation noise)
- Rooms in the center clusters if you have mobility issues (lots of walking)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in Cluster 6 for proximity to the beach and jetty. If not available, a top-floor room in a quiet block away from the main animation pool would be appreciated. We prefer a King bed and a view that is not directly facing a walkway.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool actually heated?
Yes, 3 of the outdoor pools are heated in winter (usually to a comfortable 28°C/82°F), which is rare for Sharm.
Can I swim in the sea?
Only from the end of the 600m jetty. The water at the shore is inches deep and full of coral rock. It is not a wading beach.
Is alcohol included?
Yes, local beer, wine, and spirits are included 24/7. Imported international brands (Jack Daniels, etc.) are extra.
Is there free Wifi?
Yes, free Wifi is available throughout the resort and even reaches the beach, though speeds can be 'limited' for streaming.
How far is the airport?
Very close—about a 15-minute drive. You won't hear much plane noise, but the transfer is quick.
Are the à la carte restaurants free?
Yes, they are included in the All-Inclusive package, but you are limited to a certain number of visits per week based on your stay length.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Sanafir' seafood restaurant at the beach has the best lunch view—go there instead of the main buffet.
- ✨
Ask for a 'box lunch' at reception the night before if you have an early excursion; they pack a decent spread.
- ✨
The lobby bar 'Marha' is open 24 hours and serves the best coffee in the resort.
5 things to know before you go
💡The wind in Nabq Bay can be intense enough to knock over empty plastic cups at the pool bar.
💡There is a 'Relaxation Pool' that is technically adults-only, but enforcement can be lax.
💡The minibar soft drinks are free and refilled daily, but the chocolate/snacks on the counter often cost extra.
💡You can use the facilities at the sister Jazz hotels, but Alcazar is the best one, so there's little reason to.
💡The animation team is less pushy here than at other Egyptian resorts; a polite 'no' is actually respected.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Steigenberger Alcazar is located and what's nearby.