Welcome to Hurghada, a breathtaking resort town stretching along Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, year-round sunshine, and wide array of activities, Hurghada is more than just a beach destination. Whether you’re an adventurer, a family, a solo traveler, or a honeymooning couple, you’ll find something unforgettable here.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the top things to do in Hurghada—from desert safaris and diving adventures to relaxing on the beach and exploring local culture. Let’s dive in!
👉 Click here for a full list of things to do in Hurghada
1. Dive into the Red Sea: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Hurghada is a diver’s paradise. The Red Sea is home to some of the world’s most vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish.
-
Popular diving spots: Giftun Island, Abu Nuhas, Carless Reef, and the Salem Express shipwreck.
-
For beginners: Take a PADI-certified diving course or enjoy guided snorkeling tours.
-
For advanced divers: Explore deeper sites like the El Mina wreck and remote reef systems.
You can book trips directly from the marina or through your hotel, with prices ranging from budget to luxury experiences.
2. Go Island Hopping: Giftun, Mahmya & Paradise Island
A day trip to one of the nearby islands is a must.
-
Giftun Island is the most popular, with white sandy beaches and shallow snorkeling spots.
-
Mahmya Island is an ecotourism hotspot offering clear waters, relaxed beach bars, and day packages.
-
Paradise Island is aptly named—ideal for relaxation, Instagram-worthy photos, and a tropical feel.
Most tours include lunch, snorkeling gear, and boat transfers.
3. Explore the Desert: Safari Adventures by Quad, Jeep, or Camel
Trade the sea breeze for desert winds with a desert safari adventure.
-
Quad biking: Race across the dunes in a 2- or 4-hour tour. Morning and sunset tours are available.
-
Jeep safaris: Visit Bedouin villages, enjoy a traditional dinner, and watch the stars.
-
Camel rides: A must-do for first-timers, especially at sunset.
Desert excursions offer a fantastic contrast to the coastal vibe and let you experience the mystical charm of the Eastern Desert.
4. Discover Marine Life Without Getting Wet: Hurghada Grand Aquarium
Perfect for families or those who prefer dry feet, the Hurghada Grand Aquarium gives you an up-close view of marine life.
-
Walk through tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and vibrant fish.
-
Visit the mini zoo and rainforest area.
-
Educational exhibits make it ideal for children.
It’s open daily and is only a short drive from most hotels in central Hurghada.
5. Take a Submarine or Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
If diving isn’t your thing, see the underwater world from a submarine or glass-bottom boat.
-
The Sindbad Submarine takes you 22 meters under the sea for a 50-minute ride.
-
Glass-bottom boats give you a chance to view coral reefs and marine creatures from the surface.
These are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
6. Visit the Hurghada Marina Boulevard
The Hurghada Marina is a vibrant, modern area ideal for evening strolls and dining.
-
Lined with yachts, palm trees, and elegant cafes.
-
Offers a wide selection of seafood restaurants, shisha lounges, and bars.
-
Great place for shopping for local souvenirs or enjoying nightlife.
Try a seafood platter while overlooking the sea at sunset—unforgettable!
7. Enjoy Water Sports: Parasailing, Kite Surfing & Banana Boats
Hurghada is a hub for thrill-seekers and water sports lovers.
-
Parasailing gives a bird’s-eye view of the turquoise waters.
-
Kitesurfing and windsurfing are especially popular in El Gouna (north of Hurghada).
-
Jet skis, banana boats, and paddleboarding are available at most major hotels.
Whether you want adrenaline or relaxation, the Red Sea delivers.
8. Wander through El Dahar (Old Town Hurghada)
To get a taste of authentic Egyptian culture, visit El Dahar, Hurghada’s old town.
-
Visit Souk El Dahar for spices, souvenirs, perfumes, and traditional clothing.
-
Admire the Abdulmoneim Riadh Mosque—open to tourists outside of prayer times.
-
Try local dishes like koshary, falafel, and grilled kofta from traditional street vendors.
El Dahar offers a real glimpse into the daily life of Hurghada locals.
9. Relax on the Beach
Don’t forget the simplest joy: a lazy day on the beach.
-
Public beaches like Old Vic and Dream Beach are affordable options.
-
Many resorts offer private beaches with loungers, bars, and pools.
-
Pack a book and sunscreen and enjoy the calm Red Sea breeze.
Some beaches also have DJs and live music, especially on weekends.
10. Take a Day Trip to Luxor or Cairo
Hurghada’s location makes it a great base for day trips to iconic historical cities.
-
Luxor (3.5–4 hours by road): Visit Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut’s Temple.
-
Cairo (by flight or overnight bus): See the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum.
Guided tours usually include transportation, entrance fees, and a local guide.
11. Enjoy a Night Out: Clubs, Bars & Beach Parties
Hurghada comes alive after sunset.
-
Head to Little Buddha or Ministry of Sound Beach Club for dancing.
-
Enjoy beach bars with fire shows and belly dancing performances.
-
Try an evening Nile dinner cruise if available—especially around holidays and festivals.
The atmosphere is safe, tourist-friendly, and perfect for those looking to let loose.
12. Swim with Dolphins or Visit Dolphin World
Want to interact with dolphins? Hurghada offers two options:
-
Dolphin House Excursions: A boat trip to an open sea area where wild dolphins often appear. Includes snorkeling and swimming opportunities.
-
Dolphin World Hurghada: A structured marine park where you can watch shows and swim with dolphins (great for kids).
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory for families and animal lovers.
13. Indulge in a Spa and Wellness Day
After all that adventure, you deserve some pampering.
-
Many resorts have spa centers with massages, jacuzzis, steam rooms, and Turkish baths.
-
Try a traditional Moroccan hammam or a Red Sea salt scrub.
-
Couples can book romantic packages with private rooms and candlelit treatments.
Your body and mind will thank you.
14. Visit Mini Egypt Park
This open-air museum features miniature replicas of Egypt’s top landmarks, from the pyramids to Abu Simbel.
-
Great for kids, photographers, and history lovers.
-
Educational and fun, especially if you can’t visit all of Egypt in one trip.
It’s located just outside of town and can be combined with other day tours.
15. Try Local Cuisine & Seafood Specialties
Food is part of the journey!
-
Sample freshly grilled seafood, especially shrimp and red snapper.
-
Local favorites include molokhia, kofta, ful medames, and hawawshi.
-
For dessert, don’t miss basbousa or konafa.
Try eating at both hotel buffets and local restaurants for the full culinary experience.
Plan Your Trip to Hurghada Today!
Hurghada offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and fun. Whether you stay for a few days or a couple of weeks, you’ll never run out of things to do.
For a full curated list of the best activities, deals, and excursions, make sure to visit
