Best Places for Surfing in Ismailia, Egypt
Ismailia, a city located on the Suez Canal, offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it an intriguing destination for surfers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the south, this city provides diverse surfing opportunities that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers.
Perfect Waves in Ismailia
While Ismailia may not be as widely known for its surfing destinations as some other coastal cities in Egypt, it still offers a variety of spots where you can catch waves. The best times to visit are during the cooler months from November to April when the winds and sea conditions are more favorable.
1. Port Said Channel
This channel is one of the most popular surf spots in Ismailia. The break here is consistent, with small to medium-sized waves that are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. It's a great spot for learning or improving your skills without having to deal with larger swells.
2. Qasr El-Sinad
Located just outside the city, this spot offers slightly bigger waves compared to Port Said Channel. The break here is more challenging but still manageable for experienced surfers who are looking for a bit of variety in their routine.
3. North Ismailia Beach
The northern part of the city has several beaches that offer good surfing conditions. The waves here are generally smaller, making it perfect for those new to surfing or those seeking a more relaxed session.
4. South Ismailia Beach
On the southern side, you’ll find another set of beaches with surfable waves. These spots can get crowded during peak season, so be prepared for some fun competition.
5. The Suez Canal Mouth
Surfers often flock to this area due to its reliable swells and consistent waves. However, it is crucial to always check the weather conditions before heading out as the strength of the waves here can vary significantly depending on wind direction and intensity.
6. El-Fayoum Lake
While not technically a beach, the lake offers a unique surfing experience with calmer waters that are perfect for practicing your technique or catching some waves in less challenging conditions.
7. Ras el-Bar Beach
This nearby town is known for its beautiful beaches and consistent swells. It’s slightly further from Ismailia but well worth the trip if you're looking for a change of scenery.
8. Qantara El-Nil Breakwater
The breakwater here creates some interesting waves, making it a good spot to explore different surfing techniques and strategies.
9. Port Said Beach
Although technically in another city, this beach is easily accessible from Ismailia and offers relatively consistent surf conditions. It’s particularly popular among locals for its accessibility and moderate wave size.
10. New Qena Breakwater
This spot provides excellent waves that are ideal for experienced surfers looking to challenge themselves with bigger swells. The break here can be quite powerful, so always prioritize safety.
11. Sharm El-Sheikh Beaches (North and South)
While not in Ismailia itself, these nearby beaches provide additional options for those who want to explore more of the Red Sea coastline. The North Beach is generally calmer with smaller waves, while the South Beach can offer slightly larger swells.
12. El-Tor Breakwater
For experienced surfers, this break offers a significant challenge with powerful waves and strong currents. It’s not for the faint-hearted but provides an exhilarating experience when conditions are right.
13. Port Said Port
The port area often has good surfing conditions, especially during the winter months. The waves here can be quite unpredictable, so always check local reports before heading out.
14. El-Feel Breakwater
This break is known for its consistent swells and manageable waves that are ideal for intermediate surfers looking to improve their skills in a more controlled environment.
15. Suez Canal Bridge Area
The area around the bridge often offers small but steady waves, making it perfect for beginners or those seeking a calm and scenic session.
16. El-Montazah Breakwater
This break is located near the Montaza Palace and provides smaller waves that are great for practice sessions or relaxed surfing.
17. North Port Said Beaches
The northern part of Port Said offers several beaches with consistent swells, making it a reliable spot for surfers looking for regular conditions.
18. South Port Said Beaches
Similarly, the southern beaches in Port Said offer waves that are generally smaller but still suitable for surfing. These spots can be particularly enjoyable during less busy times of day.
19. Damietta Breakwater
While it’s a bit further from Ismailia, this break offers a unique experience with calmer waters and manageable waves. It’s perfect for those looking to explore new areas or seeking a more peaceful session away from the crowds.
20. El-Arish Beaches (North and South)
These nearby beaches provide additional options for surfers, offering smaller waves that are great for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. The North Beach is generally calmer, while the South Beach can offer slightly larger swells during certain times of year.
Ismailia offers a diverse range of surfing spots with varying wave conditions, making it an exciting destination for both local enthusiasts and visiting surfers. Whether you're looking to catch small but consistent waves or tackle bigger breaks, there's something here that will suit your preferences. So grab your board and get ready to explore the best places for surfing in Ismailia!