Gurgussum Beach Hotel

On the mainland, 12km from Massawa on a moderate stretch of beach. This sprawling venue is the closest thing Massawa has to a resort, though 'resort' is an optimistic description. At least it's fronted with an acceptable beach. It's very popular with Eritrean families at the weekend and the beach is usually crowded at that time (and almost empty during the week). The rooms vary in size, shape and atmosphere, but overall it's clean.

If your purse strings are a bit relaxed, opt for the more comfortable and spacious family cottages. There's a decent restaurant and an open-air bar on the premises. To get there from Massawa Island, hire a taxi (around nfa100) or take a minibus on Saturday or Sunday.