Stanley Beach

شاطئ ستانلي

A popular sandy beach in the upscale Stanley neighborhood, perfect for swimming and enjoying Mediterranean coastal life with nearby cafes and restaurants. The beach offers a more relaxed and accessible seaside experience compared to other Alexandria attractions.

Things to do

• Swimming in the Mediterranean — Enjoy safe bathing in the clear waters of Stanley Beach, one of Alexandria's cleanest and most family-friendly swimming spots.
• Sunset promenade walk — Stroll along the waterfront corniche during late afternoon to catch the Mediterranean sunset and observe local evening social life.
• Beach lounging and sunbathing — Rent a beach chair or umbrella from vendors along the shore to relax on the sandy beach with a view of the sea.
• Visit Stanley Casino — Explore the Belle Époque-era casino building near the beach that reflects Alexandria's cosmopolitan heritage, though check current access conditions.
• Coastal café culture — Sit at one of the numerous beachfront cafés to enjoy Egyptian coffee or tea while watching swimmers and fishing boats.
• Photography of Mediterranean scenery — Capture the natural beauty of the coastline, especially during golden hour when the beach takes on warm, photogenic tones.

Food to try

• Grilled sea bass (سمك موسى مشوي) — Fresh Mediterranean sea bass grilled whole and seasoned simply with lemon and herbs, widely available at beachfront restaurants.
• Calamari (أخطبوط مقلي) — Tender squid rings fried until golden and served with garlic sauce or fresh lemon, a specialty of Alexandria's seafood tradition.
• Shrimp saganaki (روبيان ساganaki) — Plump Mediterranean shrimp sautéed with tomatoes and melted cheese, reflecting both Greek and Egyptian culinary influences.
• Stuffed calamari (أخطبوط محشي) — Squid filled with rice and herbs, then grilled or baked, showcasing the sophisticated seafood preparations of Alexandria.
• Konafa with ice cream (كنافة بالآيسكريم) — A popular local dessert of crispy shredded pastry topped with melted cheese and served with cold ice cream, sold by beachside vendors.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect local dress codes — While Stanley Beach is more cosmopolitan than other areas, modest swimwear and covering up when not swimming shows respect for local sensibilities.
• Bargain respectfully with vendors — Beach vendors selling drinks, snacks, and goods expect some negotiation; engaging with a smile and patience is part of the cultural exchange.
• Beach etiquette with families — Stanley Beach attracts many Egyptian families, especially on weekends; be mindful of shared space and the family-oriented atmosphere.
• Visit during cooler months — The best time to visit is October to May when temperatures are pleasant; summers (June–August) are intensely hot and crowded with local tourists.