Hurghada Travel Guide: 15 Best Things to Do on Egypt's Red Sea

Hurghada grew from a small fishing village into Egypt's biggest Red Sea resort – and it's easy to see why. Year-round sunshine, warm clear water and some of the world's most accessible coral reefs sit just minutes from the airport. Beyond the beach, there are island boat trips, desert safaris, a lively marina and day trips to Luxor. Here's how to make the most of your stay.

In the sea

1. Take a boat trip to the Giftun Islands

The protected Giftun Islands, a short boat ride offshore, have white-sand beaches and some of the best snorkelling near Hurghada. Most trips stop at two or three reefs and include lunch on board.

2. Spend a day at Orange Bay

The beach at Orange Bay on Giftun Kebir is famous for its powder-white sand and shallow turquoise water. It gets busy at peak times – choose a trip that arrives early or late.

3. Snorkel from your hotel

Many Hurghada hotels have their own house reef or jetty. Ask about it before you book – a good house reef means you can snorkel every day for free.

4. Learn to dive

Hurghada is one of the best places in the world to learn to dive, with calm, clear water and dozens of reefs and wrecks close by. Choose a well-reviewed PADI or SSI centre.

5. Watch dolphins responsibly

Spinner dolphins often rest on reefs near Hurghada. Choose a responsible operator that doesn't chase them and limits the number of swimmers in the water.

6. Try kitesurfing or windsurfing

Steady winds make the Red Sea coast a kitesurfing hotspot. El Gouna, Soma Bay and the spots north of Hurghada have schools for beginners.

7. See the reef from a semi-submarine

For non-swimmers and young children, a semi-submarine or glass-bottom boat shows the coral and fish through underwater windows.

On land

8. Spend an evening at Hurghada Marina

The New Marina in Sakkala is the town's favourite evening spot, with restaurants, cafés, ice-cream shops and yachts lit up after dark.

9. Explore El Dahar, the old town

El Dahar is Hurghada's traditional heart, with a bustling souk, spice shops, local cafés and fresh fish at affordable prices.

10. Visit the Hurghada Grand Aquarium

A good option for families on a windy or very hot day, with sharks, rays and turtles in large tanks, plus a small zoo.

11. Go on a desert safari

Afternoon trips into the Eastern Desert combine quad biking or jeep driving with camel rides, a Bedouin village visit and dinner under the stars.

12. Walk the El Mamsha promenade

This long seafront promenade is lined with restaurants, bars and shops – pleasant for an evening stroll once the heat of the day has gone.

13. Visit El Gouna

North of Hurghada, El Gouna is a lagoon town with a marina, a walkable centre and great restaurants – worth a half-day visit even if you're not staying there.

Day trips

14. Luxor

Luxor's temples and the Valley of the Kings are about four hours away by road. It's a long day – an overnight stay is much more relaxed. See our guide to planning a Luxor day trip from Hurghada.

15. Cairo and the Pyramids

Cairo is about five to six hours by road or under an hour by plane. A two-day trip lets you see the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum without rushing.

Where to stay

• Sakkala and the Marina – lively, central and close to restaurants and boat trips.
• El Mamsha / Village Road – long beach hotels with sea views.
• Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay – quieter bays with resort hotels and good reefs.
• El Gouna and Soma Bay – upmarket and calm, ideal for families and kitesurfers.

Getting around

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are easy to find in town; agree on the fare first with street taxis. Most visitors book a private transfer from the airport, especially with children and luggage.

Comparing the Red Sea resorts? Read our guide to Hurghada, Marsa Alam or Sharm el-Sheikh, and plan family time with our Red Sea family holiday guide.