Hotel Helnan Marina Sharm Hotel Hotel 4 star
Easyexperts
Naama Bay Sharm El Sheikh South Sinai Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt -
See the map
Amy Adejokun Section editor

If there was a Sham el Sheikh hotel alumni, the Helnan would be part of the old boys club. This grand edifice right in front of the Red Sea is one of the resort's original hotels although you'd never know it from the way it has been looked after. Popular with foreign tourists (Italians, Russians, British) as well as Egyptians, it is suitable for families, couples or groups of friends. With a great location, good infrastructure and friendly staff you need look no further for your Naama Bay base.

+
  • Seaside
  • Family
  • Well located
  • Rest
  • Flight
    Compare all the prices

    Price per night - Find at 46 partner(s)
    • - Ebookers - View prices
    • - booking.com - View prices
    • - AccorHotels.com - View prices
    • - AsiaTravel.com - View prices
    • - Amoma - View prices
    • - Ctrip.com - View prices
    • - Ebookers - View prices
    • - Elvoline - View prices
    • - Expedia - View prices
    • - Site officiel de l'hotel - View prices
    • - Getaroom - View prices
    • - Hanatour - View prices
    • - HappyRooms - View prices
    • - Hilton.com - View prices
    • - Homestay.com - View prices
    • - Hotel.info - View prices
    • - Hotelius - View prices
    • - Hotelnjoy - View prices
    • - Hotelpass - View prices
    • - HotelJoin - View prices
    • - Hotelopia - View prices
    • - Hotell.no - View prices
    • - Superbreak - View prices
    • - Hotels.com - View prices
    • - HotelsClick.com - View prices
    • - HotelTravel - View prices
    • - Hotelquickly - View prices
    • - Hotusa - View prices
    • - Jalan - View prices
    • - Lastminute.com - View prices
    • - Laterooms - View prices
    • - Otel - View prices
    • - Ostrovok - View prices
    • - Ozon Travel - View prices
    • - Prestigia - View prices
    • - Rumbo BravoFly Volagratis - View prices
    • - Rakuten - View prices
    • - Reserver avec l?hotel - View prices
    • - Sembo - View prices
    • - Skoosh - View prices
    • - TravelClick - View prices
    • - Travelocity - View prices
    • - Voyage SNCF - View prices
    • - Yanolja - View prices
    • - ZenHotels HC - View prices
    • - Agoda - View prices
    Show more offers

    Location 3.0 /10

    Being one of the first buildings, let alone hotels, to be constructed in the Sinai, the Helnan enjoys a prime sea front location on the far edge of the Naama Bay zone which is eight miles from the airport. The neighbouring zones of Hadaba and Shark's Bay are each a 10-15 minute drive away. To get to the beach you need only to cross the road in front of the hotel.

    Accommodation 8.20 /10

    Unsurprisingly, given its past, the Helnan is a smart, symmetrical, orderly looking affair, a little out of sorts with the buildings surrounding it. The gates, the flags and what look like watch towers incorporated into the main building all point to its military origins. Inside the lobby reminds of a cruise ship deck, although our judgment might be clouded by the presence of the word Marina in the hotel's name. In any case it is vast in comparison to others in Sharm and perhaps a little sparse too. Under the central glass chandelier is a seating area organised round a giant rug. In each corner of the hall and around the edges are yet more cosy sofas with the reception in the far right hand corner. Just off the lobby you'll find the bar and main restaurant as well as a few souvenir shops and the gold hand railed stair case leading upstairs. A cash machine is also installed for your convenience. The hotel has two simply shaped swimming pools, both exposed to the sun all day long and each with plenty of sun beds and parasols to go round. Between the two are a jacuzzi and a kids pool. The animation team is made up of six English-speaking animators who will keep the whole family occupied with activities during the day as well as shows in the evening. They also offer a babysitting service at the rate of 200EGP/hour. For those who like to keep fit while away, head to the decent gym and wellness centre where you'll find all you need to exercise as well as relax. On site you can play a number of sports including table tennis and pool while there are plenty more activities available on the beach. In case of any medical emergency there are both a clinic and pharmacy site and a doctor on 24 hour call. Wifi is free in the lobby where there are also internet connected PCs. As if in homage to its military beginnings, everything at the Helnan is prim and proper and both the buildings and common spaces are very well maintained. It is one of the few hotels which rises more than two storeys and as such the hotel has five lifts serving as many floors. The hotel also has a terrace which hosts some of the entertainment put on and from which the views of the Red Sea and the Sinai Mountains are stunning, however on our visit this was closed and due to reopen in November 2009.

    Overview 8.20 /10

    Five categories make up the hotel's 305 rooms, the smallest of which, the superior room, is actually quite pokey when compared to the rest of the standard rooms in Sharm and would not look out of place in a major European city. Despite its size the superior has a pleasant feel with good quality linen and bright curtains and pictures livening up the room. There is just enough space to walk around the bed past the dresser and baggage stand (both marble-topped) while the small balconies (fifth floor only) have sea views. The bathrooms, while small, have walk-in showers with glass doors, bowl shaped wash basins, toiletries and hairdryers and are in decent condition. Deluxe rooms, the next category up, share the same specifications although are slightly bigger and can accommodate up to four people (one of which should be a child). The middle category, Royal Club offers more comfort in the form of a king size bed, a couch and coffee table, flatscreen television with DVD player, tea and coffee facilities, a good range of branded toiletries and a tub in the bathroom. For even more space and luxury go for the junior or presidential suites. All rooms are equipped with safe, fridge or minibar and air conditioning.

    Food and drink 8.45 /10

    Sharm Café is the main restaurant which offers an international buffet which runs on a weekly cycle. The room has no particularly distinguishing features although the choice of cuisine is fairly wide and presented with care. The Marina Café is the à la carte option which proposes an international menu with a backdrop, just like the main restaurant, of the Red Sea and Sinai Mountains. There are three bars to choose from on the hotel premises, starting with the warm and homely lobby bar where Hollywood stars look down upon cushioned couches and velvet armchairs. The round pool bar, featuring Moroccan style tiling, is another option for beverages while, once the terrace reopens in November, you'll have yet another place to enjoy sipping a cocktail watching the remarkable view.

    Beach 8.45 /10

    The Helnan's beach is just across from the hotel. Both wide and deep, there is plenty of space for sunbathing without being on top of your neighbour and the parasols provide apt shade should you not wish to be directly in the sun. The sand is of a good quality and the descent into the water is slight. A jetty extends into the sea for all those wishing to snorkel while for those looking to dive or partake in some water sports, there are centres on the beach where you can book your trips. Not only does the beach have its own bar, but the Mermaid Restaurant serves up seafood and Italian specialities in an area at the back of the beach. A children's playground and massage tents are also to be found on the beach.

    To know

    Before being a hotel, the building was used by the Israeli military (during the time Sinai was part of Israel) to house their soldiers and their families. However in 1973 the building came under the Egyptian authorities as the Sinai became part of Egypt. Helnan took over the property in 1991 since when it has invested millions of dollars to make it what it is today.

    Equipment

    • Shuttle bus
    • Car park
    • Handicap access
    • Restaurant
    • Internet access
    • Air conditioning
    • Spa

      massage, beauty salon, sauna, keep fit, spa, Turkish bath, wellness

    • Swimming pool
    • Sports equipment

      tennis, water skiing, gym, volleyball, paddle boats, fitness, sports

    • Animals allowed
    • Safe
    • Meeting room

    Traveller Reviews

    • Overall Score nc/10
    Hotels near to Sharm El Sheikh
    • Reef Oasis Beach Resort Reef Oasis Beach Resort Reef Oasis Beach Resort
      • Easyopinions 7.00
      • Value for money 7.03
      • Location 3.0

      Of an imposing size, the Reef Oasis is an establishment located closest to the underwater natural park of Ras Mohammed. It is ideally suited to families wanting to be entertained (the hotel has nearly 40 animators) and athletes who wish to have an active vacation.

      From
      See the offer
    • Coral Beach Tiran Coral Beach Tiran Coral Beach Tiran
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.94
      • Location 3.0

      Facing Tiran island, this hotel offers ideal conditions to practice diving. Unfortunately, the beach is poorly adapted to "simple bathers".

      From
      See the offer
    • Crowne Plaza - Sharm El Sheikh Crowne Plaza - Sharm El Sheikh Crowne Plaza - Sharm El Sheikh
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.74
      • Location 3.0

      The Crowne Plaza is a grand hotel offering tranquility, which is very pleasant for families. The one negative point is the main restaurant's bad reputation.

      From
      See the offer
    • Marriott Beach Marriott Beach Marriott Beach
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.94
      • Location 3.0

      Located along the coast in Naama Bay, the Marriott Beach was one of the first hotels in Sharm el Sheikh. Opened in 1996, this hotel offers its customers many water sports and the opportunity to bask on the beach. The facilities make for comfortable and quality services. An ideal hotel in which to relax or practice sports.

      From
      See the offer
    • Falconn Inn Diva Falconn Inn Diva Falconn Inn Diva
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.78
      • Location 3.0

      This is a small scale hotel in an area perfect for those who'd like to try a spot of deep-sea diving.

      From
      See the offer
    • Maritim Jolie Ville Casino Maritim Jolie Ville Casino Maritim Jolie Ville Casino
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.14
      • Location 3.0

      We liked this one a lot! Many a Sharm el Sheikh hotel resembles the next one and struggles to differentiate itself. This is not the case with the Maritim Jolieville which is unique in several ways. Every aspect of the hotel meets the grade from the welcome to the rooms, the dining to the sports facilities. Strongly recommended to families, couples and to groups of friends.

      From
      See the offer
    • Grand Rotana Resort and Spa Grand Rotana Resort and Spa Grand Rotana Resort and Spa
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.77
      • Location 3.0

      This unusual hotel offers a multitude of services and is well-suited for people seeking originality.

      From
      See the offer
    • Three Corners Palmyra Resort Three Corners Palmyra Resort Three Corners Palmyra Resort
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.08
      • Location 3.0

      The Three Corners Palmyra has merged with another resort, the Amar Zaman providing a different, more intimate atmosphere from that of the resort-feel found at Three Corners. The Three Corners is a typical resort with nothing special about it ? a good place to stay for those seeking nothing more than sunshine and a good size swimming pool. The resort does have a cleanliness issue however and the food is of particularly poor quality.

      From
      See the offer
    Top Hotels Sharm El Sheikh
    • Four Seasons Resort Four Seasons Resort Four Seasons Resort
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.39
      • Location 1.0

      Perfectly maintained, this hotel facility offers luxury and refinement. With its shaded gardens, many fountains and outdoor jacuzzi, it is the ideal place to relax.

      From
      See the offer
    • Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.24
      • Location 1.0

      Fully equipped, this hotel offers exclusive comfort in a pleasant setting. Ideal for a week of relaxation.

      From
      See the offer
    • Jaz Belvedere Hotel Jaz Belvedere Hotel Jaz Belvedere Hotel
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.24
      • Location 7.0

      The Jaz Belvedere Hotel is easily one of Sharm el Sheikh best quality resorts. With its beautiful interiors and very well maintained exteriors, the Belvedere is more of a hotel than a resort. Directly on the beach, the hotel is small enough to retain intimacy and large enough not to feel claustrophobic after a week. The Belvedere is definitely one of our favourites.

      From
      See the offer
    • Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.24
      • Location 8.27

      This gargantuan complex is quite simply in a class of its own. You can take any aspect of the hotel, its rooms, its spa, its eateries, its views or its staff and you'll find everything is top draw. If it is top of the range you are after for in Sharm then you can't go far wrong in choosing the Royal Oasis, perfect for couples and families looking for the very best in service and facilities in a setting to die for.

      From
      See the offer
    • Conrad Sharm el Sheikh Resort Conrad Sharm el Sheikh Resort Conrad Sharm el Sheikh Resort
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.19
      • Location 1.0

      Quiet and pleasant, this hotel is ideal for couples and diving fans. However, it is poorly adapted for a family-style vacation due to the absence of a kid's club.

      From
      See the offer
    • Hilton Shark's Bay Extension Hilton Shark's Bay Extension Hilton Shark's Bay Extension
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.19
      • Location 5.0

      An all-round good quality hotel compared to most hotels in Sharm el Sheikh. The extension of the Hilton Shark's Bay is neat and well maintained and is separate from the original part of the resort. There is also nothing Egyptian about the place; one could be anywhere in the world. This part of the hotel lacks in atmosphere but is relaxing and guests are guaranteed a fairly good quality room.

      From
      See the offer
    • Royal Grand Sharm Royal Grand Sharm Royal Grand Sharm
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.19
      • Location 4.02

      One of the classier outfits in Sharm el Sheikh, the Royal Grand Sharm offers the complete package to guests looking for that little bit extra from their hotel. Perky staff, a beautifully kept environment and convivial atmosphere make this a natural choice for both couples and families. This mid- to high-end establishment is extremely comfortable and is recommended wholly by Easyvoyage.

      From
      See the offer
    • Oriental Rivoli Hotel Oriental Rivoli Hotel Oriental Rivoli Hotel
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.18
      • Location 8.54

      The Oriental Rivoli is without doubt one of the classiest hotels in Sharm el Sheikh. Its sumptuous decoration must be the finest in the resort and all of its services exude quality, from its staff to its food. Best suited for couples or groups of friends, due to its lack of animation or a kids club, it is the perfect place for relaxation, reflection and rejuvenation. Recommended whole-heartedly by Easyvoyage!

      From
      See the offer