Top Things to Do in Hurghada – Your Full Red Sea Guide
If you’re planning your holiday and wondering about the best things to do in Hurghada, get ready for a mix of clear waters, coral reefs, desert adventures, and relaxing beach vibes.
Welcome to Hurghada — one of Egypt’s top Red Sea destinations for snorkeling, island trips, and marine activities.
In this guide, Egypt Tours Group shares the best activities, day plans, and local tips so you can enjoy every moment of your stay in Ghardaqa (Hurghada).
Quick Answer – Top 10 Things to Do in Hurghada
Looking for the most important events and activities to do in Hurghada? Without further ado, here are the top 10 things you must do in Hurghada.
- Giftun Island (Orange Bay / Mahmya)
- Snorkeling Reefs (boat day)
- Intro Scuba Dive / PADI try-dive
- Dolphin House (Shaab El Erg)
- Glass-Boat or Submarine Trip
- Hurghada Marina (evening walk)
- El Dahar Old Town & Souq
- El Gouna Lagoons & Kite beaches
- Sahl Hasheesh / Makadi Bay beach day
- Desert Safari & Bedouin dinner
Map & Areas – City, Lagoons & Resort Bays
Here are the slight differences between the regions within the Hurghada map so that you have a general idea about the city located on the Red Sea coast.
🌆 Downtown / Marina
Modern marina and relatively modern area with various restaurants and night markets.
🏙️ El Dahar
It is considered the old part of the city and is characterized by the Egyptian popular markets and the classic atmosphere.
🏖️ El Gouna
Organized beaches in the upscale city, amazing lagoons, and famous kite surfing areas.
🌅 Sahl Hasheesh
It is characterized by its long corniche, which is suitable for tourism and walking in a relaxed manner.
🌊 Makadi Bay
An ideal bay for diving and relaxation, and includes distinctive resorts.
💎 Soma Bay
It also offers diving activities and excellent spa services, along with huge hotels in an area considered upscale.
Top Experiences (Must-Do in Hurghada)
Here are the best experiences you can do during your visit to Hurghada, Egypt, and quick points about each place/activity, so you have a broad and customized knowledge for your vacation in Hurghada.
Giftun Island – Orange Bay & Mahmya
Why visit? It is a wonderful sea trip that combines white sand and stunning turquoise waters on the marvelous Giftun Island, including lunch and snorkeling.
Time needed? Half a day (5–8 hours).
Best time? Early morning to avoid crowds.
Tip? Book in advance and bring a light jacket for the sea air.
Snorkeling in Hurghada (Boat Reefs)
Why try? Enjoy coral reefs and marine life with a mask and fins.
Time needed? 3–5 hours.
Best time? Morning for clear vision.
Tip? Check water currents before activity.
Scuba Dive / PADI Try-Dive
Why Expereince? Perfect for beginners — descend with an instructor for your first diving experience.
Time needed? Around 3 hours.
Best time? Early morning for calm sea.
Tip? Choose small groups and reliable, sterilized equipment.
Dolphin House (Shaab El Erg)
Why visit? Swim and snorkel while watching dolphins in their natural environment.
Time needed? 6–8 hours (half day).
Best time? Early morning.
Tip? Do not disturb dolphins or marine life.
Glass-Boat or Submarine (Non-swimmers)
Why visit? See coral reefs through glass — perfect for non-swimmers.
Time needed? 2 hours.
Best time? Midday for best visibility.
Tip? Reserve early and choose window seats.
Hurghada Marina (Evening Stroll & Dinner)
Why visit? Ideal for walking, dining, and photos at night.
Time needed? Around 2 hours.
Best time? Sunset.
Tip? Start before sunset for perfect lighting.
El Dahar Old Town & Souq
Why visit? Experience the cultural charm, markets, and spices of old Hurghada.
Time needed? 2–3 hours.
Best time? Afternoon to early evening.
Tip? Watch for traffic & negotiate prices.
El Gouna Day (Lagoons & Kite Beaches)
Why visit? Upscale city with lagoons, marinas, and beaches.
Time needed? Half to full day.
Best time? Early morning for full-day fun.
Tip? Check visitor entry policy.
Sahl Hasheesh / Makadi Bay (Beach Day)
Why visit? Calm bays, clear waters, and long relaxing walkway.
Time needed? Half a day.
Best time? Morning until afternoon.
Tip? Monitor water conditions for best timing.
Desert Safari & Quad Biking (Sunset)
Why visit? Thrilling desert adventure with sunset views, Bedouin dinner & stargazing.
Time needed? 4–5 hours.
Best time? Before sunset.
Tip? Bring a light jacket, sunscreen & helmet.
Hurghada Grand Aquarium (Families)
Why visit? Excellent for marine lovers & families, with diverse sea life.
Time needed? Around 2 hours.
Best time? Any time of day.
Tip? Ideal as a backup plan on windy days.
Hurghada Itinerary – 1/2/3 Days
With Egypt Tours Group, you will know exactly what to do in Hurghada. After reading this itinerary, your vacation will be easy to plan and enjoy to the fullest 🌴☀️.
🗓️ 1 Day Itinerary
Morning
- ⮕ Trip to Giftun Island or Orange Bay.
- ⮕ Light trip including coral reef viewing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Afternoon
- ⮕ Enjoy a unique seafood meal with sea-view cafés and yachts.
- ⮕ Great spot to hang out and relax after your morning adventure.
- ⮕ Tip: Wear light, elegant clothes for beautiful photos 📸.
🌴 2 Days Itinerary
Day 1
- ⮕ Same as Day 1: water activities, seafood lunch, and relaxation.
Day 2
- ⮕ Visit Sahl Hasheesh or Makadi Bay for crystal-clear waters.
- ⮕ Afternoon desert safari and beach buggy ride adventures.
- ⮕ Capture sunset photos and enjoy a Bedouin dinner under the stars.
🏖️ 3 Days Itinerary
Day 1
- ⮕ Start your trip relaxing at Giftun Island — swimming & beach walk.
Day 2
- ⮕ Sea trip to Dolphin House to watch and swim near dolphins.
- ⮕ One of the most breathtaking experiences in Hurghada 🐬.
Day 3
- ⮕ Cultural day at Old Hurghada (El Dahar) exploring markets & souvenirs.
- ⮕ Enjoy a light traditional Egyptian meal while strolling the souqs.
Day Trips from Hurghada
Your enjoyment in Hurghada is not limited to it, but you can double the enjoyment and experience the famous day trips from Hurghada.
Luxor (long day: Valley of the Kings & Karnak)
- You can reach Luxor City by driving for a few hours in our private car with a professional driver.
- You can visit whatever you want from the beautiful landmarks in Luxor, but here are the best landmarks that you should not miss.
- Karnak Temple Complex, which includes the largest temple in Egypt (Karnak Temple), and tells the story of the participation of most of the kings of the Eighteenth Dynasty in it, dedicated to the Luxor Triad.
- On the other side of Luxor (west), you will find the Valley of the Kings, where most of the kings of the New Kingdom were buried. You will visit the most wonderful tombs carved into the mountain by Egyptian hands, whose colors are still vibrant to this day.
Cairo (Pyramids & Museum, very long day / flight option)
- You can choose to go to Cairo directly by plane and start your long day.
- Start your day by visiting the most famous landmark in Cairo — the Pyramids of Giza — and enjoy the magnificence of Egyptian architecture that has survived for thousands of years. You should also visit the Grand Egyptian Museum.
- Then head to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir and trace the history of Egyptian civilization from unification to the late ages — a day that combines thousands of years of history.
Where to Stay in Hurghada (Areas & Resorts)
Here is a simple comparison to know where to stay in Hurghada and which option is the best.
| Area | Highlights | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown / Marina | Restaurants, markets, shops, nightlife. | ✅ Close to the airport ✅ Easy transportation ✅ Mix of sea & city life |
❌ Less quiet |
| El Gouna | Upscale lagoons, elegant architecture, water sports. | ✅ Quiet & luxurious ✅ Great for diving/snorkeling ✅ Many restaurants & shops |
❌ Expensive ❌ Harder to move outside |
| Sahl Hasheesh | Luxury resorts, calm beaches, spa experiences. | ✅ Peaceful atmosphere ✅ Excellent for relaxation ✅ Premium resorts |
❌ Higher prices ❌ Need a car for transport |
| Makadi Bay | Family-friendly beaches & activities. | ✅ Great for families ✅ All-inclusive resorts ✅ Reasonable prices |
❌ Slightly less upscale than El Gouna or Sahl Hasheesh |
Best Resorts in Hurghada
- Steigenberger Resort Ras Soma
- Rixos Premium Magawish Suites & Villas
- Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh
- Cleopatra Luxury Beach Resort, Makadi Bay
Getting Around (Boats, Taxis & Timing)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overview | The idea of moving around Hurghada may seem like a difficult task, but in reality, there are many different means of transportation in Hurghada that make it easy for you to move from one place to another in the fastest time and at the agreed prices. |
| Boats | There are a lot of trips that begin or depart from New Marina, Hurghada Marina, or even Marasi hotels. Transportation from the hotel is usually free or agreed upon. |
| Land Transfers | You can move by taxi, through one of the booking applications, or by a private driver, but you must agree on the price in advance.
💡 It is always preferable to carry small denominations of money when paying. |
| Best Timing | The sea in the morning is best for the calm, bright sun and sweet, clear water.
As for dinner or meals, it is preferable to have them at sunset to enjoy the delicious flavors with the enchanting view of the sunset over the water. |
| Wind & Cancellation | It is important to monitor the weather conditions, especially in winter, as trips to the marina may be canceled due to strong winds.
In case of cancellation (which doesn’t happen often in reality), you should have an alternative plan in place to get through the day. |
Best Time to Visit Hurghada
Hurghada is characterized by its suitability for visits throughout the year in different seasons, but what is the best time to visit Hurghada?
- Summer: No matter how hot it is, the sea is warm, and you can get the best tan for your skin and a complete, unique experience of summer adventures.
- Autumn & Spring: Characterized by fewer crowds than summer, a touch of pure coolness, and relatively cold but clearer water.
- Winter: Excellent for safaris and desert adventures in Hurghada’s golden sands.
- Diving: If you are a diving fan, don’t worry — it’s allowed all year round.
- Pro Tip: Get more info about the weather in Egypt year-round.
FAQs – Things to Do in Hurghada
Is snorkeling good in winter?
Although it is more popular in the summer, yes, if you can stand the cold water, it will be nice and unique in the winter.
Giftun VS Orange Bay VS Mahmya?
Giftun is the best for snorkeling and coral reef lovers, while Orange Bay is better for families, and Mahmya is the most peaceful and organized.
Can you see dolphins near Hurghada?
Yes, of course, you can clearly see dolphins in Hurghada, especially during Dolphin House trips.
Hurghada or Sharm for first-timers?
They both offer almost the same services as they are both located on the Red Sea and feature activities such as safari and others, but Sharm El Sheikh may be more diverse.
What to wear on boat days?
Take sunscreen with you first, and it is preferable to wear light clothing such as shorts, a hat, a light T-shirt, or swimwear.
How many days in Hurghada?
You can start with three days, and you can go up to a week or more, depending on what you want to do and your budget, as each day will have a different activity or adventure, whether it is a safari, snorkeling, a Bedouin dinner, or even relaxing in the swimming pool.
Plan Your Trip
For the best experience in Hurghada, try to balance between sea activities, relaxation, and a desert adventure. Booking your trips in advance will help you avoid crowded days — especially for Giftun Island and Dolphin House tours.
If you’d like a fully organized plan with transfers, guides, and activities, Egypt Tours Group can help you customize your ideal Red Sea itinerary with snorkeling, safari, and boat trips.
