Hurghada Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Hurghada

Life in Hurghada revolves around the sea, but the town and surrounding desert offer plenty to explore between beach days.

• Snorkelling and diving — The reefs off Hurghada are home to colourful corals, reef fish, turtles and dolphins, with sites suited to beginners and experienced divers alike.
• Giftun Islands — Protected islands a short boat ride offshore, known for white-sand beaches and some of the clearest water in the area.
• El Dahar — The old heart of Hurghada, with a traditional souk, spice stalls, local cafés and a glimpse of everyday Egyptian life.
• Hurghada Marina — A waterfront promenade lined with restaurants and cafés, lively in the evenings and a departure point for boat trips.
• Desert safari — Excursions into the Eastern Desert by 4x4 or quad bike, often including a Bedouin village visit and a starlit dinner.
• El Gouna — A lagoon town north of Hurghada, popular for kitesurfing, boat rides and waterside dining.
• Luxor day trip — A long but rewarding day trip by road to the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Karnak and Luxor.

Best time to visit Hurghada

Hurghada enjoys sunshine almost all year and very little rain. The most comfortable months are October to May, when days are warm and ideal for the beach, while evenings in December and January can feel cool, especially on boat trips.

Spring and autumn, particularly March to May and October to November, combine warm sea water with pleasant temperatures, making them excellent for snorkelling, diving and desert excursions. Winter is peak season for travellers escaping colder climates, and European school holidays bring extra visitors.

Summer, from June to September, is very hot, with strong sunshine and high temperatures during the day, though sea breezes help on the coast. The water is at its warmest, and early morning or late afternoon is best for activities. Strong winds can make the sea choppy at times, which suits kitesurfers.

Getting from the airport

Hurghada International Airport lies just south-west of the town, only a few kilometres from the main resort strip, so transfers are usually short.

• Hotel transfers — Most resorts offer airport pick-ups, which is the simplest option, especially for families and late arrivals. Journey times range from around 10 to 20 minutes for central Hurghada to 30 to 45 minutes for resort areas such as Makadi Bay or El Gouna.
• Taxi — Taxis wait outside the terminal. Meters are not always used, so agree the fare with the driver before departure.
• Pre-booked private transfer — A convenient choice for groups or travellers heading to resorts further along the coast.

There is no rail link to the airport, and public minibuses are not practical with luggage, so most visitors travel by car. Allow extra time on departure for security checks at the terminal entrance.

Where to stay

Hurghada and its neighbouring resort areas stretch along around 40 kilometres of coastline, so each area has a different character.

• El Dahar — The old town, with local markets and simpler accommodation; suits budget travellers who want an authentic atmosphere.
• Sekalla and the Marina — The central area around the marina, with restaurants, shops and nightlife within walking distance; good for couples and first-time visitors.
• The main resort strip — South of the centre along the coast, lined with beach hotels, cafés and dive centres; ideal for families.
• Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay — Quieter resort bays south of Hurghada with calm water and house reefs, perfect for relaxing beach holidays.
• El Gouna — A self-contained lagoon town to the north, suited to travellers seeking water sports and a laid-back atmosphere.

Travel tips

• Travel advice — Check your government’s current travel advice for Egypt before planning your trip and review it again shortly before departure.
• Sun and heat — The sun is strong all year. Use high-factor sunscreen, wear a hat, drink plenty of water and avoid the midday heat in summer.
• Protect the reef — Do not touch or stand on coral, avoid feeding fish and choose reef-friendly sunscreen to help protect the Red Sea’s marine life.
• Tipping — Tipping, known as baksheesh, is customary for hotel staff, boat crews, guides and drivers. Carry small notes in Egyptian pounds.
• Etiquette — Swimwear is fine at resorts and beaches, but cover shoulders and knees in town and at mosques. Bargaining is normal in souks.
• Entry requirements — Visa and entry rules depend on your nationality. Check the latest requirements with official sources before you travel.