Jordan
16 Sep 2025

Top 10 Best Hotels in Aqaba – Luxury to Budget Gems

Wonderplan
Wonderplan
Top 10 Best Hotels in Aqaba – Luxury to Budget Gems

When you think about Aqaba Jordan, two things come to mind right away: the stunning Red Sea and the gateway to iconic spots like Wadi Rum and Petra. Aqaba isn’t just a stopover; it’s a destination that blends beachside relaxation with adventure.

Whether you want to spend your holiday diving into coral reefs, enjoying free evenings at a lively beach club, or just unwinding by the shore, the city has it all.

But here’s the thing—your hotel in Aqaba will shape your trip. Some properties feel like small luxury resorts, others are family-friendly hubs close to the site of the old city, and some are perfect for a quick stop before heading into the desert.

Below, we break down the 10 best hotels in Aqaba Jordan, each with its own story, design, and way of exceeding guest expectations.

1. Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Al Manara is often the first name that comes up when talking about the best hotels in Aqaba Jordan. Set along the pristine Red Sea shoreline, this property is all about elegance and thoughtful design. The interiors combine rich Arabic style with modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that feels both authentic and indulgent.

Travelers often wonder, What is Al Manara, Aqaba known for? The answer is its refined service, spacious suites, and a world-class spa. Each room is carefully designed, with plush bedding, large bathrooms that resemble mini spas, and balconies overlooking the shimmering sea. The front desk staff are highly attentive, always ready to handle special requests or arrange desert trips.

Dining is a highlight, with restaurants offering both traditional Jordanian meals and international flavors. The signature beach club is perfect for sunbathing during the day and unwinding at night with cocktails. Its location also makes it easy to plan excursions to Wadi Rum or a full-day adventure at Petra.

Pros

Cons

Luxury suites with breathtaking sea viewsHigher fees compared to mid-range Aqaba hotels
Direct beach access & private shoreCan get busy during December/November peak season
High-end spa & modern gym facilitiesSome premium services require cash payments

2. Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba

The Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba is one of the most popular choices for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury. Perfectly located in the heart of the city, this resort makes it easy to explore local markets, dine at nearby restaurants, or simply stroll along the Red Sea coast. Unlike some remote resorts, this property keeps you close to everything while still offering a relaxing holiday setting.

The rooms are spacious, many with private balconies that overlook either the beach or Aqaba’s lively city streets. Guests consistently praise the buffet breakfast, where a wide selection of freshly prepared meals is served each morning. In the evenings, you can enjoy dinner with international options, along with a fine list of beverages.

The highlight for many is the resort’s beach club. With pools, sun loungers, and private lounging areas, it’s a favorite spot for families, couples, and solo travelers. Kids love the dedicated play areas, while divers find it convenient to arrange dive trips through the hotel. Whether you’re planning to unwind or explore, Mövenpick balances both experiences beautifully.

Pros

Cons

Central location near shops & diningSome rooms may feel slightly dated
Private beach club with multiple poolsLarge resort can feel crowded at night
Generous buffet meals & diverse food optionsWi-Fi speed can be inconsistent

3. Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea

For travelers who love sleek design and modern luxury, the Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea is a standout choice. Located right on the shore, the property embraces open spaces, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and minimalistic décor that creates a calm, airy feel.

It’s not just a hotel—it’s an experience built around comfort and views. While it may not hold the title of World’s No. 1 hotel, Kempinski consistently ranks among the most stylish and highly rated Aqaba hotels.

The suites here are spacious and designed with a sense of understated elegance. Many come with balconies where guests can wake up to the stunning Red Sea every morning. The spa offers personalized treatments, allowing visitors to fully unwind after days spent diving, exploring Wadi Rum, or visiting Petra.

The hotel’s infinity pool is another highlight, seemingly blending into the sea. Direct beach access makes it easy to move between lounging by the pool and enjoying the soft sand.

Dining options focus on fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired meals, with chefs preparing dishes daily. Professional front desk staff ensure smooth check-ins and are quick to respond to any requests.

ProsCons
Modern design with sea viewsPremium fees for luxury extras
Infinity pool & private beach accessService can feel a bit formal
Quiet yet central locationNot the most budget-friendly option

4. InterContinental Aqaba

The InterContinental Aqaba is one of the most established luxury hotels in Aqaba Jordan, and it consistently delivers a complete experience for travelers. Many visitors wonder, How many days do you need in Aqaba?—the answer is usually at least three, and this property makes every one of those days worth it.

Perfectly positioned along the Red Sea coast, the hotel combines direct beach access with city convenience, giving you the best of both worlds.

From the moment you arrive, the attentive front desk staff set the tone. They go beyond standard service, helping guests arrange car rentals, dive trips, or even day tours to Wadi Rum and Petra.

The spa and wellness center offer plenty of ways to relax after a day of exploring. Spacious rooms and large, elegant bathrooms make the stay comfortable, whether for a short holiday or a longer trip.

Dining is also a highlight. Onsite restaurants serve both international and Jordanian meals, with options ranging from generous buffet dinners to carefully prepared à la carte menus. The location makes it easy to explore the city while still enjoying private access to the sea.

Pros

Cons

Excellent service & welcoming staffRates can feel pricey in high season
Multiple restaurants with buffet & à la carte mealsPool area often crowded
Prime location for city and sea accessLimited parking availability

5. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Aqaba

The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Aqaba is a well-balanced choice for both business and leisure travelers. Located in the heart of the city, it’s just a short walk to the beach and surrounded by plenty of local restaurants and shops.

Guests are welcomed with the brand’s signature warm cookie at check-in—a small touch that immediately makes the stay feel personal.

Rooms are spacious and designed with modern touches, featuring sleek bathrooms, comfortable beds, and plenty of space to unwind after a busy day.

The hotel offers everything you need for work or play, from meeting facilities to casual lounge areas. For fitness lovers, the fully equipped gym makes it easy to keep up with your routine.

The highlight for most visitors is the rooftop pool. With panoramic views of the Red Sea, it’s especially beautiful at night, when the city lights reflect across the water.

Dining options are varied, with international meals served in stylish settings. The staff are consistently praised for their friendly attitude and helpful service, ensuring every guest feels welcome.

Pros

Cons

Rooftop pool with stunning Red Sea viewsNo direct beach club access
Friendly staff & excellent serviceStreet noise in some rooms
Central location near restaurants & shopsParking fees may apply

6. Lacosta Hotel Aqaba

The Lacosta Hotel Aqaba is one of the city’s newer additions, but it has quickly built a strong reputation among both leisure and business travelers. While it’s not located directly on the beach, its central location in the city makes it a convenient base for those who want to explore Aqaba’s vibrant streets, shop in local markets, or dine at nearby restaurants. Guests can also reach the shore within a short walk, making it easy to enjoy the Red Sea without being far from the action.

Inside, the rooms are modern, tastefully designed, and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Spacious beds, clean bathrooms, and functional layouts make it suitable for families and business travelers alike.

The front desk staff are particularly praised for their warm hospitality and fluent English, always ready to assist with requests such as arranging a trip to Petra or planning desert tours in Wadi Rum.

The buffet breakfast is another highlight, with a wide range of fresh meals to start the morning. Though it doesn’t offer the luxury amenities of larger resorts, Lacosta is a practical, affordable choice with reliable service.

Pros

Cons

Affordable compared to luxury hotelsNot located directly on the sea
Modern rooms & spotless bathroomsNo onsite beach club
Helpful staff with fluent EnglishSmaller property with fewer amenities

7. Marina Plaza Hotel by Swiss-Belhotel

The Marina Plaza Hotel by Swiss-Belhotel is an excellent choice for travelers who want a relaxed holiday in Aqaba without the high price tag of luxury resorts. Located near Tala Bay, the property gives guests easy access to the Red Sea shore while still maintaining a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Though it sits slightly outside the city center, many visitors appreciate the peaceful environment it offers compared to busier Aqaba hotels.

The hotel features an outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers, perfect for families or couples looking to unwind. Spacious suites provide comfort, while onsite restaurants serve both Middle Eastern dishes and familiar international meals, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The property also provides convenient access to activities like snorkeling and diving, with staff happy to help guests arrange dive trips or even desert tours to Wadi Rum.

Families especially enjoy the friendly service and kid-friendly atmosphere. While the rooms are clean and comfortable, they may feel simpler compared to the lavish suites of Aqaba’s luxury hotels. Still, for those seeking value, comfort, and good hospitality, Marina Plaza is a practical and charming option.

Pros

Cons

Budget-friendly with reliable serviceLocation slightly outside city center
Family-friendly with pool & activitiesRooms may feel basic vs. luxury stays
Close to shore & diving opportunitiesExtra fees for transport add-ons

8. Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort

The Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort is one of the city’s most modern and stylish places to stay, perfect for travelers who want a fresh, contemporary hotel in Aqaba.

Set around the scenic Ayla Marina, the property offers sweeping views of both the Red Sea and the rugged mountains that frame the area. Its design is sleek and vibrant, giving it a very different feel compared to older, more traditional Aqaba hotels.

Guests can enjoy multiple outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art gym, and a full-service spa designed to help you unwind. The onsite restaurants provide a mix of international dishes and local Jordanian meals, all served in stylish settings. The property is also known for its lively beach club, where visitors can enjoy food, cocktails, and even live entertainment at night.

The suites are spacious, with private balconies that make it easy to relax while taking in views of the marina or sea. Bathrooms are luxurious, offering a spa-like feel. While the resort is slightly removed from Aqaba’s city center, many guests appreciate the privacy and quiet.

Pros

Cons

Stylish modern design & architectureSlightly removed from city center
Excellent spa, pools & resort amenitiesPremium fees for some services
Vibrant beach club with nightlifeSome areas are still developing

9. Grand Tala Bay Resort Aqaba

The Grand Tala Bay Resort Aqaba is an excellent choice for travelers who want a full resort experience right on the Red Sea shore. Designed like a small resort village, the property features multiple pools, landscaped gardens, and direct beach access, making it one of the best hotels in Aqaba Jordan for families and couples alike. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with everything you need for a complete holiday located onsite.

Guests can start their day with generous buffet meals served in airy dining halls or enjoy outdoor dinner areas with views of the sea.

The resort also offers a variety of restaurants, giving visitors the option to try both local Jordanian food and international flavors. For those looking to unwind, the spa provides soothing treatments and wellness facilities.

Adventure seekers will also appreciate the convenient services at the front desk, where staff can help arrange dive trips, desert safaris in Wadi Rum, or even excursions to Petra. While some rooms could benefit from updates, the overall experience balances relaxation, family-friendly fun, and adventure.

Pros

Cons

Direct beach access with private shoreSome rooms may need updates
Multiple pools & family-friendly atmosphereService can feel slow during peak times
Variety of restaurants & dining optionsHigher fees for certain extras

10. My Hotel Aqaba

The My Hotel Aqaba may be small and budget-friendly, but it has earned a solid reputation for delivering comfort, value, and warm hospitality. Situated close to the city center, the property puts guests within walking distance of local markets, shops, and restaurants. The beach is only a short stroll away, making it convenient for those who want to enjoy the Red Sea without paying premium resort prices.

The rooms here are simple but clean, equipped with comfortable beds, functional bathrooms, and all the essentials for a pleasant stay. While it doesn’t have the luxury amenities of larger Aqaba hotels, its straightforward setup appeals to travelers who prioritize affordability and location over extras.

One of the hotel’s best features is its staff. Known for their friendliness and good English skills, they are always ready to assist with guest requests, from arranging a car rental to helping plan trips to Wadi Rum or Petra.

Guests often comment that the personal touch at My Hotel makes the experience feel more welcoming than some bigger resorts. For those looking to enjoy Aqaba on a budget, this hotel offers the right balance of convenience and service.

Pros

Cons

Affordable rates & reliable valueNot a luxury stay
Central location near shops & restaurantsLimited onsite facilities
Friendly staff with good serviceNo direct beach club access

Conclusion

Choosing where to stay in Aqaba Jordan depends on what you want out of your trip. If luxury and spa days are your dream, hotels like Al Manara or Kempinski deliver.

For family-friendly fun, Grand Tala Bay and Mövenpick are ideal. If you’re watching your budget, Lacosta or My Hotel Aqaba keep things simple without compromising location.

No matter which property you choose, expect warm Jordanian hospitality, stunning views of the Red Sea, and easy access to adventures like Wadi Rum and Petra.

From sunrise dives to lively beach clubs at night, Aqaba offers a complete travel experience—your only challenge is deciding which hotel matches your story.


Things to do


© 2024 Wonderplan. A product of Kliki OU.