20 Things to Do in Hurghada, Egypt
Hurghada hugs the stunning Red Sea coast, drawing sun-seekers and underwater adventurers with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Known as a prime spot for Hurghada diving spots and relaxing Egypt beach holidays, this resort town offers much more than just sunbathing. From desert excursions to bustling local areas, you’ll find plenty to explore, including enjoyable free things to do in Hurghada that let you experience its atmosphere without spending Egyptian pounds.
This guide highlights twenty ways to experience the best of Hurghada, blending essential water activities with desert adventures, cultural glimpses, and relaxation. Whether you’re keen to explore beneath the waves, feel the thrill of the desert sands, or simply unwind by the sea, these suggestions cover the top attractions and experiences. Get ready to discover the vibrant energy and natural beauty of this popular Red Sea destination.
Red Sea Wonders
Scuba Diving Excursion: Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life on a guided dive trip suitable for certified divers. Witness the underwater beauty that makes the Red Sea famous worldwide.
Snorkeling Boat Trip: Take a boat trip to nearby islands like Giftun for incredible snorkeling opportunities in clear, shallow waters. Enjoy swimming with colorful fish and admiring the pristine coral gardens.
Giftun Island National Park Visit: Spend a day relaxing on the beautiful white sand beaches of Giftun Island, often included in snorkeling trips. Enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise waters and protected natural environment.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: See the underwater world without getting wet on a glass-bottom boat ride over coral reefs. It’s a great option for families or non-swimmers to glimpse the vibrant marine ecosystems.
Submarine Adventure: Descend beneath the waves in a real submarine for a unique perspective on the Red Sea’s coral reefs and marine life. Observe fish and coral formations through large viewing windows in air-conditioned comfort.
Kitesurfing or Windsurfing: Take advantage of the steady winds at designated spots for thrilling kitesurfing or windsurfing adventures. Lessons and rentals are widely available for experiencing these exciting water sports.
Relax on a Public Beach: Find a spot on one of Hurghada’s public beaches, like Old Vic Beach, to soak up the sun and swim. Enjoy the Red Sea beauty without needing access to a private resort beach.
Desert Adventures
Quad Biking Safari: Ride through the desert landscape on a quad bike tour, navigating dunes and open plains. Experience the thrill of off-road driving and enjoy the vast desert scenery.
Bedouin Village Visit: Take an organized trip into the desert to visit a traditional Bedouin village, often including camel rides and dinner. Learn about the desert dwellers’ culture and enjoy traditional hospitality under the stars.
Jeep Safari Exploration: Journey deeper into the Eastern Desert on a rugged 4×4 jeep safari. Witness dramatic landscapes and perhaps spot desert wildlife during this adventurous off-road trip.
Camel Riding Experience: Enjoy a traditional camel ride, either as part of a desert safari or arranged separately near some hotels. Experience the gentle sway of the “ship of the desert” for a classic Egyptian photo opportunity.
Exploring Hurghada Town
Hurghada Marina Boulevard Stroll: Walk along the modern marina lined with yachts, upscale restaurants, cafes, and shops. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views, especially pleasant in the evening.
Explore El Dahar Old Town & Souk: Wander through the older part of Hurghada to experience a more traditional atmosphere and browse the local market (souk). Find spices, souvenirs, textiles, and get a feel for everyday Egyptian life.
Al Mina Mosque Visit (Exterior): Admire the beautiful architecture of the large Al Mina Mosque located near the marina. Non-Muslim visitors can appreciate the intricate design from the outside, respecting its function as a place of worship.
Relaxation & Entertainment
Hurghada Grand Aquarium: Discover marine life from the Red Sea and freshwater environments, including a shark tunnel and rainforest exhibit. It’s an educational attraction offering close-up views of diverse creatures.
Aqua Park Fun: Spend a day cooling off and enjoying thrilling slides at one of Hurghada’s large water parks, like Makadi Water World or Jungle Aqua Park. These parks offer extensive water attractions for family entertainment.
Enjoy a Traditional Turkish Bath (Hammam): Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional hammam experience involving steam, scrubbing, and massage. Find spas offering this treatment for a truly cleansing and relaxing session.
Dolphin World Show: Watch trained dolphins perform impressive tricks and displays at this dedicated facility. It offers family-friendly entertainment focused on these intelligent marine mammals.
Sand City Hurghada: Explore the open-air museum featuring impressive sand sculptures depicting historical figures and mythological scenes. Admire the intricate artistry created entirely from sand for a unique visual experience.
Mini Egypt Park: See miniature replicas of famous Egyptian landmarks like the Pyramids, Sphinx, and temples all in one place. It offers a quick overview of the country’s iconic sites in a compact park setting.
