Overview
Located on the Red Sea in Egypt, Hurghada is an excellent destination for anyone looking for a relaxed beach vacation with plenty of activities. From snorkeling and diving to exploring the desert and to shop at the local market, there is something in Hurghada for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top things to do in Hurghada:
Location
Situated on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, Hurghada is a popular holiday destination for tourists worldwide. This modern seaside city boasts miles of sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, ideal for relaxing or participating in some adventure sports like kitesurfing and diving. With temperatures rarely dropping below 18 degrees Celsius (64F), the warm climate allows visitors to swim or surf virtually year-round; it’s a paradise for sun worshippers.
Hurghada has become a vibrant city with luxury resorts, pampering spas, and great shopping opportunities. However, the city has historical sights, too, such as beautiful mosques and monuments that tell the stories of Hurghada’s past.
Getting around is easy with plenty of taxi services operating within the area and bus routes running throughout the region – making it convenient to visit neighboring cities like Luxor and Cairo if you have time to spare! In addition, there are various ways to explore this city full of culture, history, and luxury – ensuring an amazing trip regardless of your choice.
Climate
Hurghada, Egypt, is generally considered a hot desert climate. It has scorching summers and mild to warm winters, with low precipitation and cloud cover year-round. June through August are the hottest and most humid, with temperatures reaching over 28 degrees Celsius (82F) during the day throughout the city.
Between October and May, temperatures remain in the higher twenties during the day yet drop significantly at night. This period is often dubbed “Winters” in Hurghada despite nearly all days being sunny, atmospheric precipitation being extremely low — less than two millimeters per month – and sea temperatures rarely dropping below 20 degrees Celsius (68F).
Hurghada’s coastal location is most influenced by cool sea breezes, which offer relief from the sun during summer, making it an ideal resort town and prime conditions for various activities such as diving and swimming.
Attractions
Hurghada is an Egyptian resort town located along the Red Sea’s coast. It is well known for its beaches and coral reefs, making it a great destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. There are also plenty of other attractions in Hurghada, from historical sites and monuments to outdoor activities.
Let’s take a look at some of the top attractions in Hurghada:
Makadi Water World
Makadi Water World is one of Egypt’s most popular water parks in Hurghada and offers thrilling attractions for the whole family. Safari River and Adventure pool are two favorite rides guests can enjoy at this theme park.
At Safari River, you can battle the waves and ride down wild rapids on an exciting adventure! The Adventure Pool is great for families, with a lazy river, a kids’ area, several slides, and a giant wave pool that kicks off every thirty minutes.
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Makadi Water World has something to offer too. You can enjoy drifting down the calm river or bask in the sun on one of their sandy beaches while lounging on provided deck chairs. Food stalls are also available throughout the park, so you won’t have to go far to grab a bite!
When you visit Makadi Water World, please take advantage of some of their other attractions like mini-golf, bumper boats, or kid’s waterplay areas. Surprise your children with notable shows at Animation Island or explore one of the tropical gardens scattered across the park before soaking up some Egyptian culture in the archaeological area where 8th-century AD ruins await your visit!
Hurghada Grand Aquarium
The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is a unique tourist attraction and a must-visit place in the city. It is located on a beachfront, and the aquarium houses over 20 tanks with hundreds of fish species, including many rare species. It also features interactive shows and educational programs, giving visitors an in-depth look at one of the world’s most fascinating creatures – fish.
From giant sharks to colorful birds, this is one of the best places to explore Egypt’s amazing underwater life. With stunning coral formations and worldwide marine life, kids and adults can have a great time touring Hurghada Grand Aquarium. It’s also a great way for kids to learn about our oceans’ remarkable ecosystems.
Visitors can explore independently with audio guides or participate in dive shows supervised by experienced guides. There are even fun activities for children, so you won’t have any problem filling your day with entertainment here!
Giftun Island
Giftun Island is one of the most stunning attractions in Hurghada. Located about 2 miles from Mahmya Beach, it’s home to some of the oldest and rarest coral reefs, which makes it a perfect spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports. Part of the marine life that can be spotted here includes barracudas, turtles, and stingrays.
With a resort on site, there are plenty of options for lunch and evening drinks while enjoying views over the Red Sea. For an unforgettable day trip spent among glorious blue waters and vibrant tropical fish, Giftun Island is a must-do during a stay in Hurghada.
El Gouna
El Gouna is a perfect destination for travelers looking for fun and adventure in Hurghada, Egypt. It is situated along the Red Sea and offers various attractions and activities, including water sports, diving, windsurfing, and sailing. In addition, visitors will be able to experience the culture of El Gouna, which is vibrant and captivating.
There are many landmarks to explore, such as the Abdeen Palace Museum, Hurghada Grand Aquarium, and more! Then, when the sun sets, take some time to explore the bustling nightlife of El Gouna with its bars, clubs, and restaurants – it has something for everyone.
From sunrise to sunset, there are plenty of things to do in this beautiful part of Egypt – you won’t be disappointed!
Activities
Hurghada offers plenty of activities for travelers of all ages, regardless of whether you want adventure or relaxation. From thrilling water sports, stunning desert and mountain tours, and plenty of sightseeing opportunities through ancient Egypt to boat rentals, Hurghada has something to offer everyone.
Let’s explore some of the exciting activities that you can experience while visiting Hurghada:
Snorkeling and Diving
Hurghada is a great destination for those seeking the best snorkeling and diving experiences on the Red Sea. In addition, Hurghada is considered one of the top sites worldwide for scuba diving, offering exceptional visibility and water in various temperatures.
The warm, calm waters make snorkeling and diving comfortable and enjoyable. The area is renowned for its wide variety of tropical marine life, including moray eels, parrotfish, angelfish, barracudas, and sometimes dolphins. Snorkelers may even spot sea turtles swimming around the reefs. Many operators offer guided dives to explore inshore reefs with depths suitable for beginners and more advanced divers who may wish to venture further out to experience thrilling drop-offs or some great shipwrecks.
For snorkelers wanting a leisurely tour, there are plenty of stunning reefs close enough to shore to have an enjoyable underwater experience without having to venture too far out from land and deeper into open waters.
Hollywood fans should note that some famous films, “The Blue Planet,” “Fantasea,” and “Chaos,” were all shot at locations close to Hurghada in years past; this adds another layer of excitement during underwater exploration!
Boat Trips
The waters around Hurghada are perfect for many activities, including boat trips. From private dive boats to day trips on larger excursions ships, visitors to Hurghada have plenty of options.
Whether in Hurghada for the day or an entire week, getting out on the Red Sea on a boat is an ideal way to spend your time. You can charter boats at any of the main marinas or schedule an excursion with one of the tour companies in town.
Most boat trips include snorkeling or scuba diving, sightseeing opportunities, and swimming near islands and coral reefs teeming with life. Hiring your boat for fishing or any other activity you want to pursue in the Blue Hole or the surrounding area is also possible.
To ensure your trip is safe and fun, check references for any charter company before committing and observe all safety protocols, including proper adult supervision if children are present. Many operators also offer full-day packages that include lunch and drinks and additional hours after dark. In contrast, others provide equipment rentals so that you can enjoy some watersports activities such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, or parasailing.
Desert Safaris
Desert safaris are one of the leading attractions and experiences in Hurghada, Egypt. There is something special and unique about traveling through an endless desert landscape with its unique flora and fauna, plus one of the best activities to enjoy while visiting.
Several desert safari operators in Hurghada provide an extensive range of tours and packages that are explicitly tailored to your desires. These range from full-day or half-day trips to overnight or overland excursions. You can even ride by quad bike or camel if you wish to get up close and personal with the desert terrain.
Your adventure could take you from El Quseir on coastal flatlands toward the Great Sand Sea beyond. Then, it is a spectacular drive northwards along the Sinai coast. You can witness some beautiful scenery, including picturesque Nile river delta islands and impressive cliffs, along with unique wildlife such as foxes, raptors, partridges, and pink flamingos, to name but a few!
The tour will take you across challenging dunes giving you plenty of opportunities to practice driver skills or stop for some local tea at an oasis before cooling off in one of many pristine crystal clear lakes in Hurghada’s majestic desert scenery. Along your expedition, look for stunning rock formations such as The Colossi of Memnon, which dates back more than 3000 years!
At nightfall, settle down for dinner under starry skies or around a campfire showered by brilliant stars shining ever so brightly – this is a magical experience not missed when visiting this beautiful part of Egypt!
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular and peaceful activities in Hurghada. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman, there is something for everyone. The variety of fish in the Red Sea’s warm, clear water is diverse and includes many species, such as grouper, barracuda, snapper, sea bream, greasy grouper, and many others.
The best spots for fishing can be located off waterside restaurants and boatyards along El Kawther beach or on the more challenging high seas offered by coastal charters. It’s a fun activity and a great way to get out on the waves while spending time with family and friends.
- From shore games to deep sea fishing with professional guides and all-inclusive chartering packages ranging from five-hour wading to full-day tours for bigger groups – Hurghada offers plenty of opportunities for avid anglers.
- In addition to the traditional deep sea or wading trips, day bookings for a wonderful kite fishing excursion are available. Highly recommended by experts, these fishing trips offer customers an unforgettable experience taking you out into the Red Sea where an array of different fish species linger around sport kites designed to attract them towards bait pods!
Accommodation
Hurghada, Egypt, is an exciting tourist destination offering various accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for beachfront villas, budget apartments, family-friendly hotels, luxury resorts, or something in between, plenty of choices are available in Hurghada.
Let’s take a look at what accommodation Hurghada has to offer:
Hotels
Hurghada offers plenty of accommodation options to ensure all travelers can find a place to stay. From luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone in this bustling Egyptian city.
For those looking for a luxurious experience, numerous waterfront hotels have stunning views, chic rooms, and plenty of amenities like spas, gourmet restaurants, and swimming pools. Five-star properties provide everything guests need for an unforgettable stay in Hurghada.
Budget-conscious travelers can also find various accommodation options in Hurghada, ranging from small hotels to family-run guesthouses. These establishments provide basic but comfortable rooms at lower prices and are a great choice if you’re looking to save money on your stay.
There is also the option of holiday apartments that offer a private and spacious self-catering space ideal for groups or families who want privacy during their stay. Most have well-equipped kitchens or access to kitchenettes where you can prepare your meals and store snacks for those busy days out exploring the local attractions.
Other accommodation styles in Hurghada include beach bungalows set on stilts over the water offering breathtaking views, unique underwater hotels for adventure seekers, desert camp lodges, and more traditional Bed & Breakfasts if you’re seeking a home away from home feel during your vacation in Egypt.
Resorts
Hurghada is known for its resorts which span the Red Sea coastline. Whether you are looking for an all-inclusive resort or a place on the beach to rest your head and explore, there is something for every traveler. Here are some of the most popular resorts located in Hurghada:
- Club Sultan Beach Resort: It is located in Hurghada City and has three outdoor swimming pools and seven restaurants.
- Hotel Panorama Bungalows Resort: Located in the heart of Hurghada, with easy access to shops and downtown attractions. Features three outdoor swimming pools and six restaurants.
- Cleopatra Luxury Resort: Offering guests 5-star accommodation, ample amenities like three outdoor pools, and nine restaurants with sea view terraces.
- Labranda Tower Bay Resort: Located on the promenade of Sahl Hasheesh Bay overlooking a marina. It features eight swimming pools and ten international restaurants with stunning views over the Red Sea.
- Golden Five Diamond Luxor Hotel & Spa: Provides guests with chic rooms, three swimming pools, and four state-of-the-art restaurants, including Oriental, Italian, and Mexican cuisine.
No matter what type of accommodation you seek, many resorts are available to meet any need or preference during your stay in Hurghada!
Hostels
Hostels offer convenient, affordable, and social accommodation in many tourist destinations. For example, in Hurghada, several hostels are available to visitors, and all have comfortable amenities, including air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and a communal area for socializing.
The Pelican Hostel is a smart option as it provides private rooms and dormitory accommodation, and breakfast is included with all bookings. It is located near the marina and Souk Al Hanin Street Market and offers a great location to explore the city.
Another excellent choice for budget-minded visitors is the Pink Dolphin Hostel, located close to El Dahar district and Red Sea City Centre Mall. It offers dorm rooms as well as some double rooms with private bathrooms. It also has a communal area for socializing with other guests, a TV lounge, and a full kitchen.
For those looking for added luxury during their visit to Hurghada, the Downtown Beach Resort Hotel is located on the beachfront with spectacular views of the Red Sea coastline. From classically furnished apartment suites to all-inclusive packages, including meals, this hotel will suit every budget, plus various on-site activities such as diving classes, kayaking trips, and windsurfing lessons.
Food & Drinks
Hurghada, Egypt, is an excellent destination for foodies and those who enjoy a good drink. From traditional Egyptian dishes and local delicacies to international fare and exotic drinks, there is something for everyone here. So if you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal and a good cocktail, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore the delicious food and drink options available in Hurghada:
Restaurants
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Hurghada. From traditional Egyptian cooking to international cuisine, there is something for everyone’s taste in this red sea resort city.
If you are looking for local cuisine, it’s worth trying some traditional Egyptian dishes such as koshari (a veggie dish), ful medames (fava beans), kofta (minced meat croquettes), and ta’amiya (falafel). The local specialty is meadah, a layered dish filled with eggs and vegetables found in many restaurants throughout the city.
There are many options for international dishes, including Indian Tandoori, Japanese sushi, and Mexican tacos. Seafood lovers will find a wide selection along the coast or at several seafood restaurants. In addition, plenty of international restaurants offer European cuisines, such as steak houses and Italian pizzerias.
Besides sit-down meals, you can also explore the bustling local markets where vendors offer everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats and dairy products. There is also a thriving street food culture with snacks such as shawarma wraps, falafel wraps, and fried fish sandwiches available from ambulatory vendors.
Bars & Clubs
With its long, golden beaches and clear waters, Hurghada is a popular holiday destination in the Red Sea Governorate of Egypt. It offers visitors many spots to kick back and enjoy their drinks.
From cozy beach bars overlooking the Red Sea coastline to great luxurious nightclubs with plush interiors, you can choose from various places to socialize after dark. So whether you want an ice-cold beer with friends or cocktails in an elegant club, Hurghada delivers. Here are some of the best nightlife spots in town:
Bars & Clubs:
- Luxor Bar – This classic bar on Luxor Street offers thematic music nights such as Latino and Oriental. The bar also has two terraces: one upstairs and one downstairs, equipped with tables, sofas, and screens to watch your favorite sports team while savoring snacks or drinks like beer, champagne, or wines by the glass.
- Heineken Club – This eco-bar set on Sheraton Road is undoubtedly renowned among locals for its vast selection of imported beers from all over the world as well as being a reference point in the lounge music scene with DJs playing all sorts of genres from hip hop to house, RnB to old school classics.
- Nubian Moon – Experience elegant evenings filled with oriental flair at this Nile boat restaurant located next to Sheraton Plaza, which also serves delightful Asian fusion cuisine until late at night, perfect for unique celebrations or a romantic evening out! Let’s not forget that particular children’s programs are organized for the little guests on weekends!
- Jewel’s Club & Bistro – Located at Hilton Plaza Hotel, this place is considered one of Hurghada’s finest clubs where drinks come accompanied by delicious light bites like mini pizza sandwiches, etc., ideal for those who prefer quiet but fun nights out!
Local Cuisine
The food and beverage scene in Hurghada, Egypt, is extensive and varied. The city has over 50 restaurants serving everything from traditional Egyptian fare to exotic Indian curries. Seafood is plentiful in the city, with abundant local fish, crustaceans, and mollusks available daily. Vegetarians will find many options and Thai, Chinese, and Italian dishes.
The nightlife scene in Hurghada is varied, with plenty of bars and clubs located along the beachfront Corniche Boulevard that stay open well after midnight. Most establishments serve up a variety of local beers and wines and fresh-squeezed fruit juices made from the area’s clementines and mangoes; shisha lounges are popular here too. Local delicacies include mezzas like kofta (meatballs) or hummus (garbanzo bean dip) for starters as well as dishes like ful medames (cooked fava beans), koshari (rice & lentil casserole), mahshi (stuffed vegetables), shawarma (grilled meats), plus street food snacks like falafels and sambousak.
If you’re looking for a unique culinary experience during your trip to Hurghada, don’t miss out on sampling some traditional southern Egyptian cuisine, including dishes such as molokheya (jute mallow stew) or aish merahrah (flatbread served with spiced beef). On the other hand, if you’re looking for something light but filling, grab one of the city’s famous sandwiches – fiteer – which features thin layers of dough filled with cheese or meat before it’s cooked until golden brown in a wood-fired oven. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be delicious!