Hurghada is a paradise on the Red Sea, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you're diving into vibrant coral reefs watching the marine life or trying thrilling activities like snorkeling, windsurfing, or boat trips to see dolphins, there's no shortage of things to do in Hurghada, Egypt. Beyond its aquatic adventures, embark on desert safaris, camel rides, or visits to ancient temples. Hurghada seamlessly combines natural beauty with exhilarating activities, making it a perfect destination for unforgettable experiences.
Top Things to Do in Hurghada: Experience the Magic of Hurghada, Egypt
Hurghada, a captivating city on Egypt's Red Sea coast celebrated for its beautiful beaches and year-round sunny weather. Dive into the clear blue waters for snorkeling or relax on sandy shores. You will be offered thrilling things to do in Hurghada, from exploring vibrant coral reefs and exotic fish to adrenaline-pumping desert safaris, camel rides, and quad bike adventures. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Hurghada promises a magical blend of natural splendor and exciting activities for an unforgettable vacation.
Here are the most amazing activities in Hurghada to partake in during your visit to Egypt:
- Soak Up the Sun on Hurghada's Beaches
- Embark on a Giftun Islands Boat Adventure
- Dive into the Wonders of the Straits of Gubal
- Desert Thrills: Jeep and Quad Bike Tours
- Discover the Underwater World at Gota Abu Ramada
- Enjoy Fine Dining at Hurghada Marina
- Snorkeling in Hurghada
- Get Active with Exciting Activities in El Gouna
- Experience a Traditional Bedouin Dinner
- Dive Deep with the Sindbad Submarine
- Journey into the Desert on a Camel Ride
- Stargazing and Astronomy Nights in Hurghada
- Explore Marine Life at Hurghada Aquarium
- Shopping in Hurghada Souks
- A Quick Day Trip to Makadi Bay
1. Soak Up the Sun on Hurghada's Beaches
Hurghada, Egypt, is famous for its beautiful beaches that stretch along the Red Sea. The golden sands and clear blue waters are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun and making them a few of the best places to visit in Hurghada. You can sunbathe, swim, or play beach volleyball with friends. There are many beachside cafes where you can sip a cool drink and watch the waves. It's one of the best things to do in Hurghada. Spending a day on these pristine beaches is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea. Whether you are looking for fun activities in Hurghada or just want to unwind, the beaches are a must-visit. The gentle waves and warm sun make it a paradise for beach lovers.
Best Time to Visit Hurghada Beaches: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)
Open Hours: Open all day
Best Beaches in Hurghada:
- Old Vic Beach
- Merritt Beach
- Al Sawaqi Beach
- Mahmya Beach protected
- Coral Beach
- Fayrous Beach
Activities on Hurghada Beaches:
- Dolphin Watching
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Fishing
- Banana Boat
- Parasailing
Facilities on Hurghada Beaches:
- Parking
- Restaurants
- Diving
- Swimming equipment
Nearby Hotels:
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort
- Steigenberger Aqua Magic Hotel
- Hilton Hurghada Resort
- Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Makani Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
- Sindbad Floating Restaurant
- Marina Beach Restaurant
- La Bonne Chute Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Hurghada Marina
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Makadi Water World
- Mini Egypt Park
- Senzo Mall
2. Embark on a Giftun Islands Boat Adventure
For fantastic adventures in Hurghada, take a boat trip to the Giftun Islands, one of the most stunning islands in Egypt. The turquoise waters and colorful coral reefs make it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. You can swim with tropical fish and explore underwater caves, seeing marine life up close. The boat ride itself is an adventure, with stunning views of the sea and the coast. This boat adventure is one of the top things to do in Hurghada, Egypt. The islands offer a day full of fun and excitement in the sun, perfect for families and friends. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life create a perfect setting for a memorable day trip.
Location: Giftun Islands, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Address: Hurghada Marina or nearby ports
Open Hours: Boat leave early around 7:30 am
Nearby Hotels:
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort
- Steigenberger Aqua Magic Hotel
- Hilton Hurghada Resort
- Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Marina Beach Restaurant
- La Bonne Chute Restaurant
- Little Buddha
- El Halaka Seafood Restaurant
- Samaka Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Makadi Water World
- Mini Egypt Park
- El Gouna Aquarium
- El Gouna Golf Club
- Desert Rose Arabian Horse Stable
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3. Dive into the Wonders of the Straits of Gubal
Diving in the Straits of Gubal is an unforgettable experience. This diving spot is famous for its stunning coral reefs and shipwrecks. Divers can explore the underwater wonders and see amazing marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. It's one of the best Hurghada things to do for adventure seekers. The clear waters and rich marine ecosystem make it a diver's dream come true. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, the Straits of Gubal offers an exciting and safe environment to explore the depths of the Red Sea. It's a must-visit spot for any diving enthusiast.
Location: Straits of Gubal, Red Sea, Egypt
Open Hours: Early morning
Nearby Hotels:
- Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna
- Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna
- Dawar El Omda Hotel El Gouna
- Desert Rose Resort Hurghada
- Mövenpick Resort Hurghada
Nearby Restaurants:
- Captain's Inn Restaurant
- Tandoor Indian Restaurant
- Pier 88 Restaurant & Bar
- Jobo's Sports Bar & Restaurant
- Nubian Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- El Gouna Golf Club
- El Gouna Aquarium
- Makadi Water World
- Senzo Mall
- Bedouin village experiences
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4. Desert Thrills: Jeep and Quad Bike Tours
Experience the thrill of the desert with jeep and quad bike tours. These tours take you on an exciting ride through the sandy dunes, offering a unique way to see the desert landscape. Desert safari in Egypt is one of the most popular activities. You can feel the rush as you speed over the dunes and enjoy the breathtaking views of the vast desert. The tours often include stops at Bedouin villages, where you can learn about their traditional way of life. This adventure is perfect for those looking for exciting Hurghada things to do. It's a thrilling way to explore the desert and experience its rugged beauty.
Location: Desert around Hurghada and El Gouna
Open Hours: 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM
Nearby Hotels:
- Dawar El Omda Hotel El Gouna
- Desert Rose Resort Hurghada
- Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna
- Mövenpick Resort Hurghada
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Tamr Henna Restaurant
- Nubian Restaurant
- Tandoor Indian Restaurant
- Captain's Inn Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Bedouin village experiences
- Sandboarding spots
- El Gouna Golf Club
- Makadi Water World
- Desert Rose Arabian Horse Stable
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5. Discover the Underwater World at Gota Abu Ramada
Gota Abu Ramada, known as the "Aquarium," is a top diving spot in Hurghada. The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life are spectacular, offering a colorful and dynamic underwater world to explore. It's one of the best things to do in Hurghada, Egypt, for divers. You can swim with colorful fish, see beautiful corals, and maybe even spot a turtle or two. The clear visibility and calm waters make it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced divers. It's an underwater paradise waiting to be explored, full of wonders and surprises.
Location: Gota Abu Ramada, Red Sea, Egypt
Address: Approximately 45 minutes from Hurghada by boat
Open Hours: 8 am till 3 pm or 4 pm
Nearby Hotels:
- Titanic Palace Hotel
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel
- Hilton Hurghada Plaza
- Three Corners Triton Empire Beach Resort
- Desert Rose Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Nino's Restaurant
- Fattoosh Lebanese Restaurant
- Mermaid Restaurant
- Aquarium Restaurant
- Sofra Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Senzo Mall
- Makadi Water World
- Hurghada Marina
- Sand City Hurghada
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6. Enjoy Fine Dining at Hurghada Marina
Hurghada Marina is the place to be for fine dining and a relaxing evening. With many restaurants offering delicious food, it's perfect for a night out. You can enjoy fresh seafood, local dishes, and international cuisine, all while enjoying the stunning views of the marina. Dining at the marina is one of the great activities in Hurghada. The beautiful views of the boats and the sunset create a magical dining experience. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a family meal, the marina offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste.
Location: Hurghada Marina, Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Open Hours: Mostly 12 pm to 12 am
Nearby Hotels:
- Marina View Hotel
- The Three Corners Sunny Beach Resort
- Steigenberger Pure Lifestyle (Adults Only)
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
- The Oberoi Beach Resort, Sahl Hasheesh
Nearby Restaurants:
- Little Buddha
- El Halaka Seafood Restaurant
- Marina Beach Restaurant
- Sindbad Floating Restaurant
- Samaka Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Hurghada Marina Beach
- Desert Rose Arabian Horse Stable
- Sand City Hurghada
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Makadi Heights Adventure Park
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7. Snorkeling Adventures in Hurghada
Snorkeling in Hurghada is a must-do activity. The clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling. You can see colorful fish and beautiful corals up close, making it a fun and educational experience. It's one of the best things to do in Hurghada for families. The underwater world is full of surprises and is great fun for everyone. You can join a snorkeling tour or simply snorkel from the beach. The warm waters and abundant marine life make it an unforgettable adventure for kids and adults alike.
Location: Various snorkeling spots along Hurghada's coast
Open Hours: 8 am to 5 pm
Nearby Hotels:
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
- Jasmine Palace Resort & Spa
- Sunrise Garden Beach Resort
- The Desert Rose Resort
- Hilton Hurghada Plaza
Nearby Restaurants:
- El Kababgy Restaurant
- Sakkara Restaurant
- Star Fish Restaurant
- Al Khayyam Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Sand City Hurghada
- Hurghada Marina
- Makadi Heights Adventure Park
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Mini Egypt Park
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8. Get Active with Exciting Activities in El Gouna
El Gouna, a short drive from Hurghada, offers many exciting activities. You can try kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding in the calm lagoon waters. It's one of the top places for adventure activities in Hurghada. The lagoon and beaches of El Gouna provide the perfect setting for water sports. The town also has golf courses, tennis courts, and a vibrant nightlife. It's a great spot to get active and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, El Gouna has something for everyone.
Location: El Gouna, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Open Hours: Typically 9 am to 4 pm
Nearby Hotels:
- Steigenberger Golf Resort El Gouna
- The Oberoi Beach Resort, Sahl Hasheesh
- Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna
- Dawar El Omda Hotel El Gouna
- Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna
Nearby Restaurants:
- Pier 88 Restaurant & Bar
- Jobo's Sports Bar & Restaurant
- Tandoor Indian Restaurant
- Nubian Restaurant
- Captain's Inn Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- El Gouna Aquarium
- El Gouna Golf Club
- Mini Egypt Park
- Desert Rose Arabian Horse Stable
- Makadi Heights Adventure Park
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9. Experience a Traditional Bedouin Dinner
A traditional Bedouin dinner is a unique experience in Hurghada. You can enjoy delicious local food under the stars, experiencing the rich flavors of Bedouin cuisine. The dinner often includes live music and dancing, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere that you can book for your honeymoon in Egypt. It's one of the most memorable Hurghada things to do. The Bedouin hospitality and the desert setting make it a special night. You can learn about Bedouin culture and traditions, making it a culturally enriching experience as well.
Location: Bedouin camps in the desert near Hurghada
Open Hours: 6 pm onwards
Nearby Hotels:
- Bedouin camps offer overnight stays
Nearby Hotels in Hurghada
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel
- Hilton Hurghada Resort
- Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bedouin-style meals served at the camps
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Desert safaris
- Camel rides
- Jeep and quad bike tours
- Stargazing experiences
- Cultural shows
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10. Dive Deep with the Sindbad Submarine
The Sindbad Submarine offers a unique underwater adventure without getting wet. You can explore the Red Sea's marine life from the comfort of the submarine, which dives deep to reveal colorful fish and coral reefs. It's one of the best things to do in Egypt, for families. The submarine ride is exciting and educational, giving you a close-up view of the underwater world. It's a perfect activity for those who want to experience the beauty of the Red Sea without diving.
Location: Departure usually from Hurghada Marina
Address: 1 Sindbad Club، 1 Mohamed Said St, Red Sea Governorate 84511, Egypt
Open Hours: 9 am to 2 pm
Nearby Hotels:
- Hilton Hurghada Plaza
- Three Corners Triton Empire Beach Resort
- Desert Rose Resort
- Sunrise Garden Beach Resort
- The Desert Rose Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Samaka Restaurant
- Al Dente Restaurant
- Mermaid Restaurant
- Aquarium Restaurant
- Sofra Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Makadi Water World
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Senzo Mall
- Makadi Heights Adventure Park
- Sand City Hurghada
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11. Journey into the Desert on a Camel Ride
Camel rides in the desert are a fun and traditional way to explore the landscape. You can enjoy the slow, gentle ride and take in the beautiful views of the desert. It's one of the traditional activities in Hurghada. The camel ride offers a taste of the Bedouin way of life, giving you a unique perspective on the desert environment. It's a peaceful and enjoyable adventure that takes you back in time. Riding a camel through the dunes is a memorable experience for all ages.
Location: Desert around Hurghada and El Gouna
Open Hours: Morning and late afternoon tours
Nearby Hotels:
- Dawar El Omda Hotel El Gouna
- Desert Rose Resort Hurghada
- Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna
- Mövenpick Resort Hurghada
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Tamr Henna Restaurant
- Nubian Restaurant
- Tandoor Indian Restaurant
- Captain's Inn Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Desert safaris
- Jeep and quad bike tours
- Stargazing experiences
- Cultural shows
- Bedouin dinner experiences
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12. Stargazing and Astronomy Nights in Hurghada
Hurghada's clear skies are perfect for stargazing. You can join an astronomy night to learn about the stars and planets, using telescopes and expert guides to enhance your experience. It's one of the best things to do in Hurghada for those who love the night sky. The desert setting provides a perfect backdrop for stargazing, far away from the city lights. You can see constellations, planets, and even meteor showers. It's a magical and educational activity that brings the wonders of the universe closer to you.
Location: Desert or designated stargazing spots near Hurghada
Open Hours: 6 pm onwards
Nearby Hotels:
- Dawar El Omda Hotel El Gouna
- Desert Rose Resort Hurghada
- Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna
- Mövenpick Resort Hurghada
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Tamr Henna Restaurant
- Nubian Restaurant
- Tandoor Indian Restaurant
- Captain's Inn Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Desert camps
- Bedouin villages
- Cultural shows
- Jeep and quad bike tours
- Camel rides
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13. Explore Marine Life at Hurghada Aquarium
Hurghada Aquarium is a great place to learn about marine life. You can see many types of fish, turtles, and other sea creatures in beautifully designed exhibits. The aquarium offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It's one of the top Hurghada things to do with family. The interactive displays and informative exhibits make it a great place to learn about the underwater world. Kids will love the colorful fish and the chance to learn about marine conservation.
Location: Hurghada Grand Aquarium, Hurghada, Egypt
Address: Grand Aquarium، Villages Road, Km 12, Red Sea Governorate 84511, Egypt
Open Hours: 9 am to 7 pm
Nearby Hotels:
- Sunrise Garden Beach Resort
- The Desert Rose Resort
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel
- Hilton Hurghada Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Mermaid Restaurant
- Aquarium Restaurant
- Samaka Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
- El Kababgy Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Makadi Water World
- Senzo Mall
- Hurghada Marina
- Sand City Hurghada
- Mini Egypt Park
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14. Shopping in Hurghada Souks
The souks in Hurghada are perfect for shopping and finding unique souvenirs. Just like the luxurious malls in Egypt, these souks will fulfill your desire of buying authentic Egyptian goods. You can explore the lively markets and discover local crafts, traditional goods, and beautiful textiles. The souks offer a great shopping experience, full of vibrant colors and bustling activity. It's one of the best things to do in Hurghada, Egypt. You can bargain with vendors and find special treasures to take home. The markets are a great place to experience the local culture and find unique gifts.
Location: Downtown Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Address: El Dahar, Hurghada, Egypt
Open Hours: Morning until late evening
Nearby Hotels:
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel
- Hilton Hurghada Resort
- Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh
- Jaz Aquamarine Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Al Khayyam Restaurant
- Star Fish Restaurant
- El Kababgy Restaurant
- Felfela Hurghada
- Sakkara Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Hurghada Marina
- Sand City Hurghada
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Makadi Water World
- Mini Egypt Park
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15. A Quick Day Trip to Makadi Bay
Makadi Bay is a beautiful spot just a short trip from Hurghada. The bay offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. You can relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear water, or explore the underwater world. It's one of the popular activities in Hurghada. The day trip to Makadi Bay provides a peaceful escape from the city, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The serene environment and beautiful scenery make it a perfect getaway for a day of relaxation and fun.
Location: Makadi Bay, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Open Hours: Daytime hours for beach and water activities
Nearby Hotels:
- Serenity Makadi Beach Resort
- Jaz Makadi Star & Spa
- Sunrise Royal Makadi Resort
- Iberotel Makadi Beach
- Jaz Makadi Oasis Resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Sofra Restaurant
- Makadi Bay Beach Restaurant
- Dunes Restaurant & Bar
- Il Divino Italian Restaurant
- Al Nakhil Restaurant
Other Attractions Nearby:
- Makadi Water World
- Makadi Heights Adventure Park
- Senzo Mall
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Mini Egypt Park
Hurghada offers an array of unforgettable experiences for people seeking adventure and relaxation. From exploring vibrant coral reefs to indulging in thrilling water sports, such as diving and snorkeling, there's no shortage of amazing things to do in Hurghada. For those desiring a deeper dive into Egypt's rich history, Hurghada serves as an ideal base for neighboring Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. If you're captivated by underwater marvels and ancient mysteries of Egypt, Hurghada promises a vacation filled with discovery and wonder, making it a must-visit destination in any Egypt tour packages.
Things to Do in Hurghada FAQs
Hurghada is known for its stunning beaches with golden sands and clear blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Mahmya Island, Orange Bay, and Sahl Hasheesh Beach. These spots are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities.
A trip to the Giftun Islands offers plenty of exciting activities. You can snorkel in the turquoise waters, dive to explore the vibrant coral reefs, and relax on the pristine beaches. Boat tours to the islands often include lunch and opportunities for swimming with tropical fish.
Hurghada is one of the best diving destinations in the world. The Straits of Gubal and Gota Abu Ramada are popular dive sites. You can explore stunning coral reefs, underwater caves, and even shipwrecks. Marine life is rich and diverse, making it a diver's paradise.
Desert jeep and quad bike tours in Hurghada offer thrilling adventures through the sandy dunes. You can expect an adrenaline-pumping ride with stops at Bedouin villages. These tours often include a traditional Bedouin dinner, giving you a taste of local culture.
Hurghada Marina offers fine dining with stunning views. You can enjoy fresh seafood, local dishes, and international cuisine. For a unique experience, you can also enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner in the desert, complete with live music and dancing under the stars.
Hurghada offers many family-friendly activities. You can visit Hurghada Aquarium to learn about marine life, enjoy snorkeling adventures, or take a ride on the Sindbad Submarine to explore the underwater world. The beaches and water parks are also great for family fun.
Hurghada is a hub for water sports. You can try kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding, especially in places like El Gouna. The calm lagoon waters and professional instructors make it a great place to learn and enjoy water sports.
Experiencing a traditional Bedouin dinner and a camel ride in the desert are unique cultural activities in Hurghada. You can also visit local souks for shopping, where you can find traditional crafts and goods. Stargazing and astronomy nights offer a glimpse into the desert sky and Bedouin traditions.
Some of the best snorkeling spots in Hurghada include the reefs around Giftun Islands, Makadi Bay, and the House Reef at various hotels. These spots offer clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a chance to see colorful fish and other marine life up close.
A day trip to Makadi Bay is definitely worth it. Makadi Bay boasts beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It's a peaceful escape from the city, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Red Sea coastline.