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Things to Do in Hurghada

The first time I arrived in Hurghada, I expected little more than a beach holiday—sun loungers, poolside drinks, and maybe a snorkel tour if I felt adventurous. But what I discovered was something entirely different. Hurghada isn’t just a seaside resort—it’s a mosaic of contrasting experiences stitched together by coral, desert, and the warm, ever-hospitable spirit of Egypt.

There’s something about this place that grabs you gently by the shoulders and says, “Slow down. There’s more to see.” It’s in the way the sun sets over the marina, casting long, golden shadows across rows of fishing boats. It’s in the scent of grilled kofta wafting through the bustling old quarter. It’s in the silence of the desert, where even the wind seems to pause in reverence.

This article isn’t just a list of top-rated attractions. It’s a curated journey through the best things to do in Hurghada—from classic crowd-pleasers to local secrets, from sea to sand, from stillness to adrenaline. Whether you're diving into the Red Sea or sipping mint tea in a rooftop café, Hurghada has a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories.

1. Explore the Red Sea: Snorkeling & Diving

“The sea here doesn’t just shimmer—it speaks. And once you listen, you’ll never forget the conversation.”

I remember the first time I put on a mask and slipped into the Red Sea just off Hurghada’s coast. The surface noise faded instantly, replaced by the soft crackle of reef life and the rhythm of my breath. Below me, the coral spread out like a living city—towers of brain coral, alleyways of staghorn, gardens of anemones waving in slow motion. Then, a flash of silver—an angelfish darting past. A moment later, a sea turtle gliding by as if she had all the time in the world.

Hurghada is a diver’s dream, but you don’t need to be Jacques Cousteau to enjoy it. The water here is warm and welcoming, and even the shallowest reefs burst with life. If you can float and breathe, you can snorkel. And if you’re ready for something deeper, dive schools in Hurghada are some of the most accessible and professional in Egypt.

What You Can Do:

• Snorkeling Trips: Hop on a boat to Giftun Island or Mahmya Beach, where the reefs are close enough to the surface that even beginners can spot lionfish, parrotfish, and maybe even dolphins.
• Diving Adventures: Certified divers can explore nearby dive sites like Abu Ramada or Fanadir Reef, while newcomers can take beginner courses or discover dives under expert supervision.
• Liveaboard Cruises: For the more seasoned, multi-day trips head out to legendary sites like the Brothers Islands or Elphinstone, but even a single day on the water can feel like entering another world.

A Note from the Dive Deck:

Don’t go it alone, especially if you’re new to the sea. Hurghada’s reef system is gorgeous, but fragile. Booking through a reputable dive center ensures not only your safety but the reef’s survival. Guides know where the current runs, where the dolphins play, and which corals are most alive with color and life.

Diving and snorkeling in Hurghada isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you feel. The moment you break the surface and enter that otherworldly blue, something shifts. You don’t just visit the Red Sea—you become part of it.

2. Desert Safari & Bedouin Culture

“The sea shows you life; the desert teaches you silence.”

The desert outside Hurghada doesn’t look like much at first glance—just miles of beige stretching into a hazy horizon. But once you ride into it, the landscape begins to shift. The sand hums beneath your tires, the wind carries secrets older than language, and suddenly, the vast emptiness begins to feel full—with mystery, with stillness, with stories carved into rock and echoed in Bedouin song.

One afternoon, I joined a small convoy of ATVs heading deep into the Eastern Desert. The engines growled, dust billowed behind us, and the mountains loomed like ancient sentinels. After nearly an hour of bouncing over sand tracks and rocky outcrops, we arrived at a cluster of low, domed structures—a Bedouin village, nestled quietly in the valley. No gates. No tourist traps. Just a warm smile from an elder who offered sweet hibiscus tea with a nod of welcome.

As the sun dipped behind the cliffs, the sky turned a surreal shade of peach and lavender. We gathered for a traditional meal—flatbread cooked over open coals, grilled chicken, lentils, dates. Then came the music: a slow, rhythmic drum, a reedy flute, and voices rising like wind over sand dunes.

What You Can Do:

·        ATV or 4x4 Safari: Kick up some dust on a desert ride through canyons, fossil beds, and panoramic viewpoints. Experienced guides lead the way, often stopping for photo ops and to share insights about the desert’s geology and wildlife.

·        Camel Rides: Slow things down Egyptian-style with a gentle camel trek, perfect for watching the sunset while swaying through soft sand like a scene from an old epic.

·        Bedouin Encounters: Visit a local Bedouin village to learn about nomadic traditions—how they bake bread, weave cloth, raise goats, and navigate using only the stars.

·        Evening Stargazing: With zero light pollution, the desert sky becomes a planetarium. Guides often bring telescopes, but honestly, you won’t need one to feel awed.

From One Explorer to Another:

This isn’t a theme park. The desert is beautiful—but also extreme. Always follow your guide’s instructions, wear a scarf or bandana for the dust, and don’t underestimate the sun.

And while many tours are polished for tourists, the most meaningful ones are run by locals who live here—whose stories aren’t rehearsed, but remembered. Supporting them means you're not just taking a tour… you're sharing a moment of cultural connection that might just stay with you longer than any souvenir.

3. Island Hopping & Boat Trips

“If the mainland is the story, the islands are the poetry.”

There’s something about setting out to sea for the day that makes you feel unanchored—not just from land, but from time. I remember boarding a small boat just after sunrise, the sky still painted in soft pastels, as our captain adjusted his sunglasses and muttered something about "perfect dolphin weather." We weren’t on a luxury yacht—just a modest wooden boat with flaking blue paint, a cooler of mango juice, and a crew that knew the Red Sea like an old friend.

By mid-morning, we reached Orange Bay—a stretch of powdery sand so white it glowed, kissed by water so clear you could count the grains of sand beneath your feet. The boat dropped anchor, and we waded ashore with wide eyes and goofy smiles, already forgetting the mainland existed.

Later that afternoon, we snorkeled off the reef wall of Paradise Island—floating above coral gardens so rich in color, they looked like underwater fireworks. Parrotfish crunched away at coral like underwater lawnmowers, clownfish peeked out of anemones, and once, we spotted a pod of dolphins dancing in the distance.

What You Can Do:

·        Day Trips to Giftun Islands: The most popular island chain near Hurghada, known for its sandy beaches, calm lagoons, and colorful reefs. Great for snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply disconnecting.

·        Orange Bay & Paradise Island: Ideal for those wanting a more curated beach experience—often complete with shaded cabanas, beach bars, and Instagram-worthy swings suspended over the sea.

·        Utopia Island & Beyond: Quieter and more remote, these offer the same natural beauty with fewer crowds.

·        Private Sailing or Local Boats: For travelers seeking something a little more personal, some captains offer smaller group trips with flexible itineraries and secret snorkeling spots.

Captain’s Wisdom (Passed On With a Wink):

The sea looks gentle, but it deserves your respect. Always bring sun protection, listen to your guide or captain when swimming near coral or currents, and wear a rash guard if you plan to snorkel all day. And don’t forget a dry bag for your phone—you’ll thank yourself when that first dolphin appears.

More than just boat rides, these trips are slow adventures—where the real luxury isn’t in the boat you’re on, but in the silence between waves, the wind in your hair, and the feeling that, for a few hours, there’s absolutely nowhere else you need to be.

4. Visit Hurghada’s Old Town (El Dahar)

“If the Red Sea is Hurghada’s mirror, El Dahar is its heartbeat.”

It was just after the call to prayer when I wandered into El Dahar, Hurghada’s oldest and most authentic neighborhood. The golden light spilled over domed rooftops, and the air was thick with the scent of spice—cardamom, cumin, something sweet I couldn’t quite place. A local vendor called out to me in a mix of Arabic and English, waving a string of amber prayer beads like an invitation rather than a sales pitch. I smiled, stepped into his stall, and for a moment, the rest of the world fell away.

El Dahar isn’t polished or packaged. It’s raw, lively, and filled with texture—peeling paint on wooden doors, handwoven baskets stacked outside tiny shops, and families seated in plastic chairs sipping tea under flickering streetlights. It’s a place where real life hums, far from the smooth, sanitized edges of the beach resorts.

What You Can Do:

·        Explore the Souqs: Dive into the local markets selling everything from spices and dried hibiscus flowers to copper lamps, scarves, and handmade leather sandals. Haggling is part of the dance—polite, playful, and always done with a smile.

·        Visit the Hurghada Al Mina Mosque: Towering and elegant, this white marble structure near the marina is a serene place to observe local faith and architecture. Modest dress is essential, and guided visits are available during non-prayer times.

·        Taste the Street Food: El Dahar is where I had my first truly unforgettable falafel—crisp on the outside, fluffy inside, served piping hot in a soft baladi bread wrap. Look out for small family-run food carts selling koshari, fresh sugarcane juice, and charcoal-grilled corn.

·        Wander with No Map: Some of the best moments come when you’re not looking for anything in particular. Let your senses guide you—a sound, a smell, a smile—and see where you end up.

A Few Culturally-Savvy Tips:

·        Dress modestly, especially in the souqs or religious areas. It’s a sign of respect and will make your experience far more comfortable.

·        Engage in conversation. Many locals love sharing stories—especially if you show interest in their craft, cooking, or city.

·        Bring small change. It helps with tipping and small purchases and makes transactions easier (and friendlier).

El Dahar isn’t about sightseeing—it’s about connecting. It’s where you step out of the tourist bubble and into the real rhythm of Hurghada: a little chaotic, a lot charming, and always full of life.

5. Hurghada Marina – Modern Leisure by the Sea

“If El Dahar is Hurghada’s soul, the Marina is its smile.”

After a day in the desert or exploring coral reefs, sometimes you just want to slow down, swap your sandy sandals for something a little nicer, and enjoy a sunset with a cool drink in hand. That’s when Hurghada Marina calls.

One evening, I found myself there just as the last orange sliver of sun dipped behind the moored yachts. The boardwalk buzzed with life—families strolling, couples hand-in-hand, kids chasing bubbles from a street performer’s wand. Music drifted from a seaside café, blending with the clink of glasses and bursts of laughter. A waiter in a crisp shirt recommended grilled sea bass with lemon butter, and as I took my first bite, I realized just how beautifully laid-back luxury can feel.

What You Can Do:

·        Dine with a View: From Egyptian seafood grills to Italian pizzerias and Lebanese mezze platters, the marina offers a full spectrum of flavors. Pick a spot with an outdoor terrace and let the breeze do the rest.

·        Sip & Stroll: Grab a juice or a shisha and people-watch as boats gently sway in the harbor. It’s the perfect evening wind-down after an active day.

·        Shopping & Souvenirs: Boutiques and pop-up stalls sell handmade jewelry, spices, embroidered fabrics, and resort wear—often with more relaxed vibes (and prices) than the souqs.

·        Evening Entertainment: Depending on the night, you might catch live music, belly dancing performances, or even small festivals. Some bars also offer karaoke or low-key dance floors if you want to keep the evening going.

A Marina-Minded Tip or Two:

·        Go at golden hour. The light is magical, the crowds are pleasant, and the atmosphere hits that sweet spot between lively and relaxed.

·        Dress comfortably, but with a bit of flair. This is one of Hurghada’s more polished areas, and while there’s no dress code, you’ll feel more at home with a casual-chic outfit.

·        Look for local-run venues. While some spots cater to tourists, others are quietly operated by Egyptians who add local touches to international menus—ask around or follow your nose.

Hurghada Marina offers a lovely counterpoint to the rawness of the reef and the grit of the old town—it’s where the city exhales, offering a bit of glamour, a touch of indulgence, and a whole lot of calm.

6. Relax and Rejuvenate: Beach Clubs & Spas

“There’s a special kind of luxury in doing absolutely nothing—and doing it well.”

After a few days of chasing dolphins, bumping through deserts, and exploring coral jungles, my legs were tired, my shoulders were sun-kissed, and my brain was still catching up. So I took a local’s advice: “You’ve dived the Red Sea,” he said with a wink. “Now you need to float in it.”

So I did.

I spent an entire day at a low-key beach club tucked along the Hurghada coast. With my toes buried in powdery sand, the sea gently licking the shore a few meters away, I sipped hibiscus tea and let the rhythm of the waves slow my breathing. Nearby, a traveler practiced yoga under a thatched pergola, while another napped under an umbrella, book still open on their chest. No rush. No agenda. Just peace.

Later, I visited a local spa hidden down a side street—not one of those glossy resort spas, but a traditional hammam where warm water, black soap, and expert hands worked centuries of wellness wisdom into every scrub and massage. I walked out lighter, glowing, and ready to do nothing all over again.

What You Can Do:

·        Spend the Day at a Beach Club: Many offer access to loungers, shade, and calm swimming areas with food and drink service on-site. Some are quiet and minimalist; others come with DJs, infinity pools, and floating bars.

·        Try a Traditional Hammam: Turkish-style bathhouses offer body scrubs, steam rooms, and massages that go beyond pampering—they’re restorative rituals that locals swear by.

·        Massage & Wellness Centers: From quick back-and-shoulder massages to full-on spa experiences, Hurghada has plenty of places to melt your stress away—many using local oils and ingredients like hibiscus, olive, or black seed.

·        Yoga by the Sea: Several beach clubs and guesthouses offer yoga sessions, especially in the early morning or at sunset, when the light and silence align perfectly for reflection.

Relax Like You Mean It:

·        Choose your atmosphere. Some beach clubs are chic and social; others are tranquil retreats where the only sound is the sea. Ask locals or read reviews to find your fit.

·        Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. The sun and salt can sneak up on you, especially when you’re blissfully horizontal for hours. Keep a bottle nearby and drink often.

·        No need to splurge. True relaxation doesn’t require gold-plated jacuzzis. Often, the most rewarding experiences come from simple, well-loved spaces with a personal touch.

In Hurghada, relaxation is an experience in itself—an invitation to pause, breathe, and appreciate how sweet life can be when you finally give yourself permission to just be.

7. Family-Friendly Attractions & Activities

“In Hurghada, family time isn’t scheduled—it’s woven into every experience, like footprints in the sand.”

Traveling with kids can sometimes feel like juggling jellyfish: unpredictable, slippery, and occasionally stinging. But in Hurghada, I found something rare—a place where my little cousin could squeal over sea turtles one minute and fall asleep in the backseat before dinner, sun-worn and happy.

Families are woven into the fabric of life here. Children are welcomed with open arms—by restaurant owners offering sweets, by dive instructors ready to teach young snorkelers, and by the calm, clear sea itself, which offers a gentle, safe playground for even the smallest swimmers.

One particularly memorable morning, we visited the Hurghada Grand Aquarium. As we wandered through its arched tunnels and coral replicas, I watched a toddler’s face light up at the sight of a giant moray eel, mouth agape in a permanent underwater yawn. Moments later, an elderly couple paused beside a tank of moon jellies, just as mesmerized. That’s the beauty of Hurghada—it connects generations through shared wonder.

What You Can Do:

·        Hurghada Grand Aquarium: A walk-through marine experience featuring tanks filled with sharks, rays, and reef fish, along with exhibits about Red Sea ecosystems. A great way to prep the little ones before their first snorkeling trip.

·        Waterparks: Spots like Jungle Aqua Park and Makadi Water World offer endless slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and shaded chill zones for parents needing a breather.

·        Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Ideal for young kids or non-swimmers, these let families explore coral reefs without getting wet—plus the novelty of riding on a “see-through boat” is always a win.

·        Submarine Adventures: Board a real submarine (yes, a real one!) and descend to about 20 meters to view the underwater world through thick panoramic windows—thrilling for kids and surprisingly calming for adults.

Tips for Family Travelers:

·        Plan around the sun. Midday heat can be intense. Aim for early morning and late afternoon outings, and always carry water, hats, and sunscreen.

·        Pace yourselves. Hurghada is not about rushing. Alternate active days with slower ones—maybe a beach club visit with hammocks and smoothies while the kids build sandcastles.

·        Involve the kids. Let them pick between the boat or the aquarium, between the camels or the waterpark. When they have a say, they engage more deeply with the experience.

Hurghada may not be a theme park capital, but that’s exactly why it works. Here, kids aren’t overstimulated—they’re invited into nature’s playground, Egypt’s culture, and the slow, salty rhythm of the coast. And the memories? They tend to last a little longer than your average souvenir.

8. Day Trips & Cultural Excursions

“Hurghada lets you rest by the sea—but it also lets you reach back thousands of years, into the heart of ancient civilization.”

One morning, just before dawn, I boarded a minibus bound for Luxor. The city was hours away—through stretches of desert and quiet villages—but what waited on the other side was something I’d only seen in textbooks. As the sun rose behind the Eastern Desert hills, painting the horizon in strokes of gold and terracotta, I realized I wasn’t just going on a tour—I was traveling through time.

By late morning, I stood at the base of Karnak Temple, its colossal columns reaching into the sky like stone trees. Later, I crossed the Nile by felucca, the wind tugging gently at the sail, and wandered through the Valley of the Kings, whispering through tombs carved into silence. To think that all of this—tombs, temples, timeless stories—was just a day trip from a beach town was extraordinary.

That’s the secret of Hurghada: while the coast provides rest, it also offers reach—into Egypt’s heart, culture, and history.

What You Can Do:

·        Day Trip to Luxor: Visit monumental sites like Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut’s Temple. Most tours include a local guide who can breathe life into stone walls.

·        Excursion to Cairo: A longer but rewarding journey, where you can stand in awe before the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and walk through the Egyptian Museum, home to King Tut’s golden mask and countless artifacts.

·        Mini Nile Cruises or Felucca Rides: Some tours include a short sailing experience on the Nile—a tranquil way to absorb the views and imagine ancient trade routes.

·        Cultural Villages & Oasis Trips: For a more low-key experience, consider visiting desert oases or local Nubian villages where you can learn about traditional crafts, architecture, and music.

Plan with Purpose:

·        Start early. These trips often begin before sunrise and involve several hours of travel. Prepare snacks, wear comfortable clothes, and bring layers for changing temps.

·        Choose quality guides. The best ones don’t just repeat facts—they tell stories, answer questions, and help you feel connected to what you’re seeing.

·        Be patient. Travel days are long, but incredibly rewarding. Bring a notebook, a camera, or simply soak in the journey itself—the changing scenery is half the magic.

Whether you're staring into the eyes of a pharaoh's statue or watching the sun set over the Nile, these day trips add soul to your seaside escape. They’re reminders that while the Red Sea is a paradise of nature, Egypt’s true richness lies in its layers of history and living culture.

Conclusion – Let the Red Sea Write Your Story

Hurghada isn’t just a destination—it’s a rhythm, a feeling, a beautifully blended contrast of vibrant reefs and whispering deserts, of ancient echoes and modern ease. It’s where every traveler can find something that speaks to them: a quiet sunrise over coral gardens, the roar of a quad bike across golden dunes, the hush inside a temple wall, or the laughter of children playing at the edge of the sea.

You can chase dolphins in the morning, sip hibiscus tea in the afternoon, and walk through ancient history by nightfall. Whether you travel solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family, Hurghada meets you exactly where you are—then gently nudges you to explore a little further, dive a little deeper, and relax a little longer.

So take the ferry to paradise, ride into the desert wind, haggle for spices in the market, and watch the sun melt into the Red Sea. Let Hurghada surprise you, soothe you, and spark stories you'll tell long after the sand has left your sandals.

Your adventure starts here. And it’s waiting just beyond the shoreline.