Thinking about a break that mixes sunshine, clear water and a bit of adventure? Make Hurghada your first pick. Set on Egypt’s Red Sea coast in Africa, this busy resort town is known for long beaches, bright coral reefs and plenty to do. Whether you want a lazy day on the sand, a dive with turtles or a look at local culture, Hurghada delivers. In this Hurghada travel guide you’ll find the highlights: top beaches, solid hotels, must-do trips and smart tips, so you can plan with ease.
Why Visit Hurghada
Hurghada has traded its fishing-village past for a spot on Egypt’s holiday A-list, and the weather stays sunny almost every day of the year. The Red Sea’s clear water is a playground for snorkellers, divers and kite-surfers, while a string of resorts offers everything from budget rooms to five-star pampering.
Best Things to Do in Hurghada
1. Snorkelling and Scuba Diving
When it comes to snorkelling and scuba diving, Hurghada is hard to beat. Giftun Island National Park sits minutes offshore and shows off bright coral gardens packed with turtles, rays, and shoals of reef fish. Local dive shops pair beginners or pros with the right guide, gear, and all-year training sites, so everyone gets time underwater.
2. Visit Giftun Island
Plan a boat hop and visit Giftun Island for a full day of clear turquoise water, powdery sand, and roaming seabirds. The beaches are quiet enough for sunbathing yet close to shallow reefs ideal for snorkelling or a relaxed swim. Pack light-shade, snacks, and snorkel rentals wait for you on arrival.
3. Explore the Desert with a Safari
Swap the coast for adrenaline and explore the desert with a safari into the Eastern Desert. Ride a quad bike, camel, or open-top jeep across rolling dunes, call at a Bedouin camp for mint tea, and catch the sunset as it floods the sand in gold. It’s a sharp, memorable contrast to the sea.
4. Hurghada Marina and Downtown
Hurghada Marina and downtown form the town’s social core. The marina lines up cafés, seafood grills, and yacht views, ideal for an evening stroll. Two streets inland, downtown markets buzz with spice stalls, leatherwork, and hand-blown glass, giving a quick, friendly taste of everyday Egyptian life.
5. Hurghada Grand Aquarium
For a break from the sun, head to the Hurghada Grand Aquarium. Walk through glass tunnels where reef sharks cruise overhead, explore touch pools, and learn how local conservation teams protect Red Sea habitats. It’s an easy, air-conditioned outing that keeps kids and non-swimmers close to the marine action.
Best Beaches in Hurghada
1. Mahmya Beach (Giftun Island)
Mahmya Beach on Giftun Island is a quiet hideaway of soft white sand and clear, warm water. Swim or snorkel straight from the shore, then stretch out on a sun-bed under a straw umbrella. A small beach bar keeps cold drinks coming, so the whole day feels easy and unhurried.
2. Sahl Hasheesh Beach
Sahl Hasheesh Beach is made for long, calm swims and laid-back water sports. Its gentle surf and clean sand suit paddle-boarders and families alike, while nearby jet-ski rentals add a quick hit of speed. High-end resorts and seaside restaurants line the bay, turning a beach stop into a touch of luxury.
3. El Gouna Beach
A short drive north, El Gouna Beach anchors an upscale marina town known for tidy lagoons and relaxed style. Kite-surf schools ride the steady breeze, boats leave for snorkel trips, and waterfront cafés serve lunch with a view of moored yachts. If you like low-key days with smart amenities, El Gouna fits.
Best Time to Visit Hurghada
The best time to visit Hurghada is April – June and September – November. Days sit in the mid-20 °C range, the sea is warm, and the sun isn’t too fierce,ideal for diving, kiting and desert trips. July and August regularly touch 40 °C; great for pool-side downtime, but less so for all-day sightseeing.
Where to Stay in Hurghada
Where to stay in Hurghada comes down to budget and style. Top-end resorts such as Steigenberger Al Dau Beach and Sheraton Soma Bay pack in private beaches, big pools and spa extras. Mid-range travellers can look at Makadi Bay or central Sheraton Street for solid four-stars near the action, while downtown guesthouses and hostels start at about £20 a night and keep you close to local cafés and markets.
Hurghada Nightlife: Entertainment After Dark
Hurghada nightlife is relaxed but varied. Little Buddha tops the club list with sushi, DJs and a late licence. Beach bars along Village Road mix shisha, cocktails and mellow house beats, while El Gouna’s marina offers breezy rooftops for a quieter drink.
Shopping in Hurghada
Shopping in Hurghada splits between modern and traditional. Senzo Mall covers clothing, electronics and a supermarket under one roof. For souvenirs, steer to El Dahar (Old Market) where spice pyramids, silver jewellery and hand-blown glass invite a little friendly haggling.
Insider Tips for Travelling to Hurghada
- Currency: Egyptian pounds (EGP) are king for taxis and markets; many resorts also take EUR or USD.
- Dress code: Swimwear is fine on the beach; cover shoulders and knees when in town or at mosques.
- Etiquette: A handshake hello and a 10 % tip for good service go a long way.
- Safety: Tourist areas are patrolled, but use hotel taxis at night and keep valuables locked.
News: What’s New in Hurghada?
Hurghada’s airport expanded its arrivals hall in 2024, shaving time off visa queues. New eco-smart resorts are opening in El Gouna, and a traffic-free promenade linking Sahl Hasheesh to Makadi Bay is slated for late 2025. For the latest official updates on entry rules and local safety, check the UK FCDO travel advice for Egypt.
