On the waterعلى الماء
- Giftun Island — the standard day boat, with snorkel stops and a beach landing. Busy; earlier departures are better.
- Northern reefs — Abu Ramada, Careless Reef, Umm Gamar and Shaab El Erg, where dolphins are often seen.
- Abu Nuhas — a reef with four wrecks on it, the best-known wreck diving within reach of Hurghada.
- The Thistlegorm — a long day north, or a liveaboard.
- Kitesurfing and windsurfing — the wind that flattens the swimming makes this one of the better spots in the region. Schools in town, Soma Bay and El Gouna.
- Submarine and glass-bottom trips for non-divers.
On landعلى البر
| Desert safari | Quad, buggy or jeep into the Eastern Desert, usually with a Bedouin village stop and dinner. Evening trips include stargazing. |
|---|---|
| El Gouna | 25 km north — lagoons, marinas, restaurants and a walkable centre. The nicest evening out on this coast. |
| Old Town and Sekalla | Marina Boulevard for restaurants, the old souk for shopping and local food. |
| Mahmya and Orange Bay | Beach-club style island days, popular with families. |
| Luxor | Four hours each way; far better as an overnight than a day trip. More. |
| Cairo | About an hour by air, or a very long drive. |
Timingالتوقيت
Sea temperatures peak from June to October and cool to around 22°C in January and February — swimmable, and cold enough that divers want a thicker suit. Air temperatures are pleasant October to May. Wind is strongest in spring, which suits the kite crowd and not the snorkellers.
More on the resort bays and where to base yourself on the Hurghada guide.
Common questionsأسئلة شائعة
What is there to do in Hurghada besides the beach?
Reef and island day boats, wreck diving at Abu Nuhas, kitesurfing, desert safaris into the Eastern Desert, El Gouna for an evening out, and Luxor as an overnight trip.
Is Hurghada good for snorkelling?
Yes, though the best reefs are reached by boat rather than from shore. Resort house reefs vary a lot, so check the specific property before booking.
Can you visit Luxor from Hurghada?
Yes — about four hours each way by road. Day tours run but leave before dawn and return after dark; an overnight makes it a real visit.
When is the best time to visit Hurghada?
October to May for comfortable air temperatures. June to October for the warmest sea. Spring is windiest, which suits kitesurfers more than swimmers.