Sandy Beaches, Clear Waters, and More: Top 10 Things to Do in Hurghada

Hurghada is a popular resort town located on the Red Sea coast in Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs, making it a top destination for diving and snorkeling.

In addition to water sports, Hurghada offers a range of activities such as desert safaris, boat trips, and visits to nearby islands. The town has a bustling nightlife scene with plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

Hurghada is also home to a number of luxury resorts and hotels, making it a great destination for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled getaway.

Here are the top 10 things to do in Hurghada:

1. Snorkeling and Diving

Hurghada is a prime destination for both snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea. The crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life make it a popular spot for underwater exploration.

Snorkeling is a great way to experience vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish without the need for specialized equipment or training. Some popular snorkeling spots in Hurghada include the Giftun Islands, Abu Ramada Island, and Utopia Island.

If you wish to explore deeper underwater then diving is a great option. There are many dive sites in Hurghada suitable for all levels of divers from beginners to experienced divers. Some popular dive sites include El Fanadir, Sha’ab Abu Ramada, and Small Giftun Island.

Both snorkeling and diving in Hurghada offer an unforgettable experience allowing you to witness the beauty of the Red Sea’s underwater world up close. Just remember to respect marine life and follow safe diving and snorkeling practices.

2. Go on a Desert Safari

A desert safari is a popular activity in Hurghada and gives you an opportunity to explore the vast sand dunes and rugged landscape of the Sahara Desert. There are various ways to experience a desert safari but one of the most thrilling is to ride a quad bike or a dune buggy across the desert.

Most desert safaris include hotel pick-up and drop-off and refreshments. The safaris usually take a few hours and you’ll travel deep into the desert to witness stunning landscapes

During the safari, you can also enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality such as a tea ceremony and a meal cooked over an open fire. Some tours also include a camel ride which is another fun way to experience the desert.

Remember to wear comfortable clothing, and closed-toe shoes, and to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, as the desert sun can be intense. Additionally, always follow the instructions of your guide and practice safe driving practices when riding a quad bike or dune buggy.

A desert safari in Hurghada is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Egypt’s fascinating landscape and culture.

3. Explore Giftun Island

Giftun Island is a stunning destination located just off the coast of Hurghada and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area. The island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. It is the perfect destination for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

There are many ways to explore Giftun Island like snorkeling and diving tours, glass-bottom boat trips, and island-hopping tours. The coral reefs around Giftun Island are teeming with marine life such as tropical fish, rays, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins.

If you prefer to stay on land you can explore the island’s sandy beaches and enjoy a picnic or BBQ lunch. You can also enjoy a range of beach activities such as beach volleyball, football, and frisbee. If you wish to escape the crowds you can take a short walk along the beach to the island’s other side, where you can find a quieter spot to relax and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Keep in mind that Giftun Island is a protected area, and visitors are required to follow the rules and regulations in order to preserve the island’s natural beauty. There are no facilities on the island, so be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks.

4. Discover Mahmya Island

Mahmya Island is a small island located just off the coast of Hurghada and is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.  It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The island is a protected marine park making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Red Sea.

To reach Mahmya Island, you can take a 45-minute boat trip from Hurghada Marina or other nearby ports. Once on the island, you can spend the day snorkeling or diving to explore the underwater world, sunbathing on the beach, or taking a leisurely walk around the island’s coastline.

The island has a small bar and restaurant where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks. You can also rent snorkeling gear or join a snorkeling tour to explore the island’s coral reefs and see the colorful fish and other marine life up close.

Mahmya Island is a protected area so avoid littering and take care not to disturb the marine life.

5. Go Dolphin Watching

Dolphin watching is a popular activity in Hurghada giving you the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The waters around Hurghada are home to several species of dolphins like the spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins, and sightings are common.

Dolphin-watching trips often include a stop at a coral reef or other snorkeling spot allowing you to also experience the colorful marine life in the area. Snorkeling equipment is usually provided and the tours are suitable for all levels of experience.

It’s important to remember that dolphins are wild animals and it’s essential to respect their space and behavior. Tour operators in Hurghada follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of the dolphins and their habitat.

Dolphin watching in Hurghada is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the stunning marine life of the Red Sea.

6. Visit El Gouna

El Gouna is a picturesque seaside town located just a short drive from Hurghada and is a popular destination for tourists looking for a more upscale and luxurious experience. The town is built around a series of lagoons and waterways and is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and world-class amenities.

One of the main attractions of El Gouna is its marina, which is home to a variety of yachts and boats, as well as restaurants, bars, and shops. Take a stroll along the marina, enjoy a meal or drink with a view of the water, or even take a boat tour of the lagoons.

El Gouna also offers a wide range of water sports and activities such as kiteboarding, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The town’s beaches are known for their clear waters and soft sand making them a great place to relax and soak up the sun.

If you’re interested in culture and history El Gouna is home to a number of museums and galleries, showcasing the art and artifacts of ancient Egypt and the modern culture of the region.

7. Stroll along Hurghada Marina

Hurghada Marina is a bustling waterfront promenade located in the heart of the city and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The marina is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, and offers stunning views of the Red Sea.

Taking a stroll along Hurghada Marina is a great way to soak up the atmosphere of the city and enjoy the sea breeze. You can stop at one of the many cafes for a refreshing drink or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants offering a variety of local and international cuisine.

The marina is also a hub for water-based activities with many tour operators offering boat trips, snorkeling and diving tours, and other water sports. You can also take a sunset cruise to enjoy the stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon.

In the evenings, Hurghada Marina comes alive with live music, street performers, and other entertainment. It’s a great place to spend an evening, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner with a view or a lively night out with friends.

8. Take a Submarine Tour

If you want to explore the beauty of the Red Sea without getting wet a submarine tour in Hurghada is a unique and exciting way to do it. The submarine tour takes you deep beneath the surface of the water to explore the coral reefs and marine life that inhabit the area.

The submarine is air-conditioned and pressurized providing you with a comfortable and safe environment. You’ll be able to sit back and relax as the submarine glides through the water offering stunning views of the underwater world.

During the tour, you’ll see a variety of colorful fish, vibrant coral formations, and maybe even some larger marine creatures like turtles or rays. The submarine is equipped with large windows which allow you to see everything clearly and take amazing photos to capture the experience.

Submarine tours are suitable for all ages and are a great activity for families or groups of friends. The tours usually last around an hour and no prior diving or snorkeling experience is required. They depart from the marina in Hurghada and most tour operators provide hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.

9. Kite Surfing

Hurghada is one of the best destinations in the world for kite surfing. The city is known for its perfect kite surfing conditions with strong and steady winds, warm waters, and long stretches of sandy beaches.

Kite surfing in Hurghada is not only a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled activity but it also provides an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery and stunning views of the Red Sea. It’s a great way to experience the Red Sea’s natural beauty and challenge yourself physically and mentally.

There are plenty of kite surfing schools and rental shops in Hurghada that cater to beginners and advanced kite surfers alike. The instructors are highly experienced and can provide lessons and guidance to help you improve your skills and stay safe on the water.

The best time to go kite surfing in Hurghada is from June to September when the wind is at its strongest. During this time, you can expect steady winds of around 20 knots, making it perfect for kite surfing.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kite surfer, Hurghada is the perfect destination for an adrenaline-fueled adventure on the water.

10. Visit Hurghada Grand Aquarium

A visit to the Hurghada Grand Aquarium is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hurghada, especially families with kids. The aquarium is located just a short drive from the city center and is home to a wide range of marine life from the Red Sea.

The aquarium features a 79-foot (24-meter) long underwater tunnel that allows visitors to walk through and observe the marine life up close. You can see a variety of colorful fish, sharks, sea turtles, and other fascinating sea creatures.

The Hurghada Grand Aquarium also features an outdoor zoo area where you can see a range of animals, including lions, tigers, and crocodiles. There is also a children’s playground, a 7D cinema, and several restaurants and cafes on site.

The aquarium is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm and admission tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online. There are also special activities and events organized throughout the year including feeding sessions and interactive experiences with some of the animals.

A visit to the Hurghada Grand Aquarium is a great way to spend a fun and educational day with family and friends while discovering the wonders of the Red Sea’s marine life.

Best Time to Visit Hurghada

The best time to visit Hurghada is during the winter months, from December to February, when the temperatures are mild and comfortable, averaging around 68-77°F (20-25°C). This is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

The spring and autumn months, from March to May and from September to November, respectively, are also good times to visit. The temperatures are warmer, with an average of around 77-86°F (25-30°C) and there are fewer crowds compared to the winter months.

Summer, from June to August, can be very hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 95-104°F (35-40°C). However, this is still a popular time to visit for those who don’t mind the heat and want to enjoy the beaches and water activities. Just be prepared for high temperatures and intense sunshine so be sure to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun.