Jaz Aquamarine Resort

This massive beachfront resort practically feels like its own city, catering to families looking for an indulgent beach holiday. From the chandeliers and stately marble tiles and pillars in the arch-filled lobby, to the fountains and manicured green lawns outside, everything about this place oozes with upscale details. There are plenty of outdoor dining areas, decks, and lounging spaces to enjoy in the magnificent grounds. Sea views, along with a garden maze and art sculptures  make the property feel even more like a palace. While the hotel is spotless and well-maintained, restaurants can get crowded. Note that smoking is permitted in most outdoor areas, which is common in Egypt. 

Located off a highway, the Jaz Aquamarine is one of many beachfront properties on the Red Sea, but its sheer size makes it feel somewhat isolated. Besides a handful of shops and fast food restaurants, there isn’t much of note immediately outside the property. Most guests don’t even leave the resort, but those who do require a car to reach tourist locations. The Abu Tig Marina is 40 minutes away and Mahmya Island is 20 minutes away. Shuttles to the Esplanada Bay Mall, plus pick-up and drop-off at the Hurghada International Airport—both 20 minutes away—are available for extra fees. 

Standard and Family Rooms are large and clean, with updated and tasteful furnishings. White tiled floors, simple wooden furnishings, and a gray and pale blue color scheme are lovely, but slightly underwhelming, and the spaces easily get dark. Some rooms have upholstered benches and matching velvet armchairs. Suites incorporate some brighter colors, plus extra separated living and sleeping areas. They also come with air-conditioning, safes, and smallish TVs. All rooms have well-stocked minibars (not covered in all-inclusive rates) and coffee-and tea-making facilities. Suites have espresso machines. Ironing equipment and extra beds can be requested. Free Wi-Fi is available, but slow, and upgrading to faster connection is pricey. All rooms have beautiful, spacious balconies with garden, pool, or sea views. Several Family Rooms have a swim-up option with direct access to the pool. 

Bathrooms are more simple than the rooms, with marble sinks and large mirrors. All have walk-in showers, plus separate shower/tub combos with handheld showerheads. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

Amenities here are almost overwhelmingly extensive and focus on families. Topaz and Four Corners restaurants provide substantial, often themed buffets, while four other restaurants offer Japanese, Middle Eastern, Italian, and seafood-focused menus. Three poolside snack bars, plus a beachside food court, serve light refreshments, while there are two lobby bars, one of which is open 24 hours. Al Ayam Cafe offers a typical shisha bar experience. Room service is available for extra fees. Many guests note that the food is mediocre, and making restaurant reservations through the lobby’s computers can be tedious. All-inclusive rates are available.

Recreational options get better feedback, as there are 18 immaculately-maintained pools (heated during the winter). Several pools include multiple slides for adults, children, and infants. The private beach with whirlpools, camel rides (for extra charges), and beach volleyball, is another perk, though guests have noted that parts of the sand aren’t the cleanest. Extra fees apply for water sports, windsurfing, and tennis. While there’s a gym on-site, the spa’s location in the neighboring Jaz hotel can be inconvenient. Children’s dance parties, live shows, plus a hangout area for teens with PlayStation consoles boost this property’s family-friendly credentials. Fantasia Disco offers a nighttime activity, though its music can be disrupting to neighboring rooms and drinks after midnight cost extra.

Other amenities include a beauty salon, several gift shops, a pharmacy, and a doctor on call. Parking is free, and so is standard but slow Wi-Fi; charges apply for a faster connection. There's a three-computer business center for guests who didn't bring a laptop.