Top 10 Things to Do in Hurghada Egypt- Explore & Enjoy!

Ever wondered where the underwater world meets a vast desert sky — and how to make every hour count?

I’ll show you the absolute highlights for a balanced trip that mixes coral reefs and sunset dunes. This quick guide points you toward marinas, beachfront resorts, and the best snorkeling spots along the Red Sea.

Expect a mix of lazy beach moments, speedy boat tours, and market evenings in El Dahar and Sakkala. I share first-hand tips on timing your day: snorkel early, visit the souk after noon, then stroll El Mamsha at golden hour.

Egypt Planners is my on-the-ground guide for crafting seamless, memory-packed itineraries — from airport transfers to local guides. I’ll also call out ethical choices and what to pack for desert versus boat activities.

Key Takeaways

• Clear, curated list for a compact, fun trip plan.
• Top marine experiences plus easy day tours and beach time.
• Neighborhood tips: El Dahar for markets, Marina for sunsets.
• Practical packing and reef-friendly etiquette.
• Egypt Planners can turn these ideas into a smooth, flexible itinerary.

Welcome to Hurghada: Your Red Sea Playground with Egypt Planners

Step into a sunny seaside playground where marinas, markets, and warm waters set the rhythm for your stay.

I love how compact this city feels: about 36 km of coast lined with beaches, marinas, and easy boat docks. The red sea here stays warm year-round, making every snorkel or dive an effortless pleasure.

Base yourself at the Marina for evening restaurants and sunset walks, then pop over to El Dahar for market life. El Mamsha offers long boulevards for strolls, while Sakkala buzzes around Sheraton Road.

• Hurghada International Airport has direct flights from Cairo and many European hubs — you can land and be on the water by lunchtime.
• If you prefer a classic resort stay, there are plenty of hotels near marinas and dining hubs for easy access.
• With Egypt Planners as your friendly local guide, transfers, timed departures, and trusted local guides make every experience smooth.

This is a welcoming place in a vibrant marine world. Whether you want calm beach mornings or high-energy desert hours, I’ll help you balance the days so nothing feels rushed.

Things to Do in Hurghada, Egypt

Start your visit with a set of curated adventures that mix reef time, desert thrills, and evening markets.

• Giftun Islands boat tour — orange bays and Paradise Beach are postcard-perfect for snorkeling and calm swims.
• Dolphin House (Shaab El Erg) — a prime spot for dolphin sightings; check the forecast for the best viewing day.
• Not a swimmer? Choose a submarine or glass-bottom trip for brilliant reef views without getting wet.
• Desert safaris — quad bikes, buggies, and sunset jeeps pair well with an evening of stargazing.
• Plan a cultural night: Bedouin dinner, short camel ride, and a sky full of stars — unforgettable and relaxed.
• Explore neighborhoods: shop the souk in El Dahar, stroll El Mamsha, and dine by yachts at the Marina for great restaurants and atmosphere.
• Visit the Hurghada Museum to follow a theme of Beauty and Luxury Through the Ages — family-friendly galleries and cool displays.
• Take a water park day for high-energy fun between your boat tours.
• Let Egypt Planners craft a smooth 3–5 day arc that links sites, tours, and transfers so you waste no time moving between highlights.

Snorkel the Giftun Islands and Orange-Tinted Bays

An early boat puts you on powdery sand and bright reef gardens before crowds arrive.

I recommend a morning launch — the islands sit about 45 minutes by boat, and the calm water makes this a true family-friendly trip.

• Beat the crowds: Early departures reach Orange Bay and Paradise Beach when the sand is soft, and entries are shallow.
• Two snorkel stops: Most full-day runs include two swims over coral reefs packed with colorful marine life.
• Beach time: Orange Bay’s huts and hammocks are ideal for long breaks between swims.
• Top visibility: On calm days, you can see 20–30 meters — bring an action camera and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Watch for dolphins: They often ride the bow en route; sightings are thrilling but not guaranteed.
• Packed for comfort: With Egypt Planners, transfers, gear, and lunch are covered — just bring a hat, towel, and dry bag.
• Respect the reef: No touching or standing on coral — it protects marine life and your feet from sharp edges.
• Flexible timing: If wind picks up, shift your day for calmer water and a better experience.

Scuba Diving the Red Sea’s Iconic Sites and Wrecks

From sunlit coral towers to eerie wreck outlines, each dive delivers a different marine scene.

I love wreck days — Abu Nuhas feels like a candy shop of hulls, soft corals, and schooling fish. Salem Express and the Dunraven offer haunting silhouettes that are both photogenic and moving.

Careless Reef is classic: tower corals, anthias clouds, and curious morays. Small Giftun gives calmer reef profiles for relaxed dives and great underwater snapshots.

• New diver? I’ll set up an intro scuba diving day with pool practice and a shallow reef check.
• Night dives: Expect bioluminescence and shy nocturnal species—completely different marine rhythms.
• Safety first: Dive with a buddy, follow your guide, control buoyancy, and make controlled ascents.
• Smart planning: Visibility is often superb, but site choice depends on wind and currents for smooth dives.
• Photos: I’ll pick gentle-current sites and bright reef backdrops so your shots stay crisp.
• Rest between days: Sleep, hydrate, and enjoy a slow dinner — your body will thank you.

Egypt Planners coordinates boats and certified instructors, matching you with experienced guides and sensible profiles. That means no rushed descents and a sensible margin for safety across your dive days.

Dolphin Watching Boat Days on the Open Sea

A calm morning on the open water gives the best chance of spotting playful dolphins near Shaab El Erg.

I plan these trips with families in mind — shaded seating, gentle decks, and two reef stops for snorkeling and easy swims. Wild dolphins are a joy, but they remain unpredictable. Keep that relaxed mindset and the day will still feel like a win.

Ethical approach: Never chase or surround animals. Let the group observe from a respectful distance and follow your guide’s signals. Strong swimmers should only attempt close encounters when the guide confirms safety.

• Choose calm-weather mornings for smoother seas and clearer views.
• Most tours pair reef snorkeling with dolphin corridors; bring a snorkel vest for comfort.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a long-sleeve rash guard, seasickness bands, and a dry snack.

With Egypt Planners, I time departures around forecast windows to stack the odds in your favor. Bring a towel, a spare dry snack, and your camera — those unexpected dolphin moments make the best memories.

See the Red Sea Without Getting Wet: Submarine and Glass-Bottom Trips

Get beneath the waves without getting wet — panoramic windows bring reef life into comfortable cabins.

I often recommend this option for non-swimmers and multi-generation groups. A typical sub cruise lasts about 2–3 hours, including transfers, with roughly 45 minutes spent below 20 meters. Trained divers sometimes swim outside the hull to attract curious fish and take optional photos or videos for your keepsakes.

Glass-bottom boats are a gentler choice. They glide over shallow gardens on calm days and show vibrant coral and schooling fish through clear viewing panels. No wetsuit, no splash — just easy, seated viewing and air-conditioned comfort.

• Not a swimmer? You’ll still see the underwater world through wide windows.
• Short total hours make this great for a family day: kids and grandparents stay comfortable.
• Guides explain local reef sites and protection efforts — a fun, learning-led experience.
• Bring a light sweater for the cabin and a camera; angle close to the glass to reduce reflections.

I ask Egypt Planners to book morning tour slots when visibility often pops, then plan a relaxed lunch ashore. I like pairing this trip with a sunset Marina stroll — two simple, satisfying hours that show the marine world without wet gear.

Make a Splash at Hurghada’s Water Parks

A full day at a water park is a playful reset between reef trips and desert rides.

These parks are a lively place for families and thrill-seekers alike. Expect tube runs, big-kid slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and shaded lounges where you can recharge.

What to plan: Makadi Water World has roughly 50 slides and wide zones for toddlers. Some large parks serve resort guests and nearby hotels first — I ask Egypt Planners to confirm access and fast-track tickets before arrival.

• Dress for action: one-piece swimsuits or secure swim shorts work best on fast slides.
• Bring a small locker, flip-flops you don’t mind wetting, and reef-safe sunscreen applied often.
• I often schedule a late start after a light morning; I arrive fed and finish with an early dinner nearby.
• For multi-day trips, place a park midway through your stay — your legs will thank you after several water or land activities.

Desert Adventures: Quad Biking, Buggies, and Sunset Jeep Safaris

From adrenaline circuits to slow-moving camp evenings, the desert offers a range of memorable outings.

I recommend a morning quad for raw riding—about three hours of open dunes, cooler air, and longer stretches with fewer crowds.

Afternoon tours add culture: a guided village stop, a short camel ride, bread-making demos, and a sunset that paints the mountains gold.

• Comfort option: Jeep safaris cut the dust but still reach wide viewpoints for photos.
• Safety first: Expect a quick brief, a short test loop, and a lead guide who sets the pace for the group.
• Packing tips: Bandana, sunglasses, closed-toe shoes, and a lightweight layer for shifting evening air.
• Hydrate: Drink before you go and carry a big water bottle for the ride—you’ll thank me later.
• Authentic routes: If you want quiet scenery, I’ll steer you toward less-traveled tracks where the landscape speaks.
• Coordination: Egypt Planners matches your style—fast quad runs, family jeeps, or a Super Bedouin night with dinner under stars.

Bedouin Culture Evenings: Stargazing and Traditional Dinners

A Bedouin night gives you slower time, warm tea, and a very different kind of map — one made of stars.

I run these evenings as a five-hour evening tour with a jeep transfer, sunset lookout, welcome tea by the fire, and a generous Bedouin buffet. The mood is relaxed; the hosts share stories about desert life and simple, grilled fare.

An astronomer leads telescope sessions, pointing out planets, star clusters, and old sky myths. Kids and adults both love the quiet—short camel rides add a gentle sway and great photos.

Dress modestly and bring a light jacket—the night cools quickly. Respect for local customs matters; hosts welcome curiosity but not loud or intrusive behavior.

• Why go: cultural immersion, stellar views, and family-friendly pacing.
• Plan: place this on a non-boat day to rest and deepen your sense of place.
• Tip: shoot camp light early; switch your camera to night mode for stars.

Egypt Planners partners with ethical hosts and trained guides so your experience stays authentic, respectful, and full of stars.

Camel and Horseback Rides Along Beach and Dunes

Saddle up for sunset rides that pair soft sand with slow, timeless rhythms.

I offer short camel outings on the shoreline and longer tracks across the dunes. A quick, sunset camel ride gives that slow sway and long shadows—pure local charm.

Horseback on the beach adds a bit more pace. Trainers keep beginners safe and confident, so even new riders enjoy a steady trot along wet sand and shallow surf.

Ethical care matters: I always check bright eyes, healthy coats, and calm handlers before any booking. Egypt Planners picks stables that follow clear welfare standards and tells guides your comfort level.

• Wear long pants and closed shoes for comfort and safety.
• Families can split lengths—short loops for kids, longer tracks for confident riders.
• Keep phones on a wrist lanyard; hands-free reins make the ride safer.
• Golden hour photos are stunning—ask your guide to pause on a dune ridge.

Explore Hurghada Town: El Dahar, Sakkala, El Mamsha, and the Marina

Walk the town at dusk, and you’ll see how old streets, modern boulevards, and marinas stitch a lively coastal tapestry.

I start many evenings in El Dahar. The old quarter’s largest souk wakes up after sunset—spice scents, copper shining, and friendly haggling make for lively shopping and local encounters.

Sakkala, along Sheraton Road, hums with everyday life. Street food stalls and small shops keep a steady stream of people-watching and quick bites. It’s a great place to feel the city’s pulse.

The Marina is my calm stop for sunset. Yachts gleam, and restaurants pour fresh seafood while boutique shopping offers relaxed browsing. It’s a perfect place for an early evening meal.

El Mamsha is the long, new boulevard with wide sidewalks, bars, and window displays. I love a slow lap here at night; it’s ideal for a gentle stroll and people spotting.

• Drop by the fish market near the New Marina for an authentic snapshot of daily coastal life.
• Egypt Planners times pick-ups so you arrive at each spot when it’s at its best—buzzy, not overwhelming.
• Dress breezy and modest; carry small bills for souvenirs and a smile for the bargaining dance.
• Finish with tea or a fresh juice by the water—simple pleasures after a pleasant walk.

Snap photos of minarets and masts—this skyline quietly tells a sea-meets-city story. If you want a stress-free evening, ask your guide to arrange transfers and timing; I find it’s the best way to savor each place without rushing.

Marine Life Up Close at Hurghada Grand Aquarium

Step inside a cool, air-conditioned world where reef life swims past wide viewing windows.

I love how the Grand Aquarium makes the underwater world easy to explore for everyone. It’s ideal for non-swimmers and families who want a gentle introduction to Red Sea species.

The displays show sleek sharks, bright tropical fish, graceful stingrays, and slow-moving turtles. Wide paths and soft lighting keep the pace relaxed—perfect for little legs and curious adults.

• Timing: Visit during the hottest hours—shorter lines and cooler galleries. Check the hours before you go.
• Learning: Species cards explain habitats and reef care—great prep before a snorkel or dive.
• Photos: Angle away from glass reflections; wear a dark shirt for clearer shots.

For a smooth visit, I ask Egypt Planners to arrange tickets and timing. They slot this stop between lunch and an evening marina walk, so you stay comfortable and see the city without rushing.

Hurghada Museum: Beauty and Luxury Through the Ages

A short transfer brings you to a bright, focused gallery that traces luxury from pharaohs to the Islamic age.

The modern Egyptian Museum opened in 2020 in Mubarak 6, near the airport. It is single-story and about 3,000 m², making it easy to move through without feeling rushed.

The displays hold 1,791 artifacts across Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods. I love the theme—how comfort and adornment evolved—and key pieces include mummies, sarcophagi, Coptic icons, and the limestone bust of Queen Merit-Amun.

• Practical note: Hours are 10:00–13:00 and 17:00–22:00—perfect windows around beach or boat plans.
• Entry fees: Adults 350 EGP; children 7–12 pay 150; under six free.
• Amenities: Café, gift shop, and a photo studio with ancient-style costumes make this a relaxed cultural stop.

This compact museum is a lovely introduction to the region’s history and culture. If you plan a later trip to Cairo’s Egyptian Museum, consider this a warm-up that highlights craftspeople as much as rulers.

I arrange tickets and timing with Egypt Planners so your visit fits smoothly between other sites. Ask your guide for a short tour that brings the objects and the wider world they came from to life.

Mini Egypt Park and Sand City: Family-Friendly Stops

For a quick, visual primer on national heritage, Mini Egypt Park and Sand City make a lively half-day.

I love these spots for families who want big visuals without long walks. Mini Egypt Park in Makadi Bay shows 50+ miniature replicas of famous monuments. Kids connect names and shapes fast—it feels like a tiny world tour.

Sand City offers 42 sculptures and 17 reliefs carved by international artists. The sand art is intricate and very photogenic. Workshops pop up sometimes—ask about hands-on activities for a real hands-in-the-sand experience.

• Quick pairing: I often combine these stops with a nearby beach or an early Marina dinner.
• Both are outdoors—bring hats, water, and sunscreen for comfortable photos and play.
• Expect easy walking and short attention-span wins—perfect for busy days on a trip.
• Logistics: Egypt Planners arranges transfers to avoid backtracking and midday heat.

This short outing gives younger travelers a snapshot of famous sites, local life, and artful activities—simple, visual, and very family-friendly.

Easy Day Trips: Luxor Temples, Valleys, and Monasteries

Set aside one of your days for grand temples, painted tombs, and the surprising serenity of Eastern Desert monasteries.

I often plan Luxor as a full-day trip: Karnak’s vast colonnades, Hatshepsut’s terraced temple, and the painted tombs at the Valley of the Kings. It’s rich history in concentrated form.

Expect about four hours each way by road, so we leave very early and fit rest stops into the schedule. Egypt Planners secures permits, timed entries, and an expert guide so your hours on land count.

The Red Sea monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul offer a quieter counterpoint — decorated churches, austere architecture, and deep Coptic stories. These feel meditative after lively temple sites.

• Luxor highlights: Karnak, Hatshepsut, Valley of the Kings — big sights, big rewards.
• Cairo option: fly or coach out for the Egyptian Museum and a quick stop at the Giza Plateau if your days allow.
• Bring a light breakfast, comfy walking shoes, and follow dress codes for sacred sites.

If you have several days, split big sites across visits. Otherwise, a curated hit list works wonders — come back with sand on your shoes and a new sense of the ancient world.

Plan Like a Pro: Best Time to Visit, Neighborhoods, and Transport

Timing your days makes the whole trip feel effortless — and more fun.

I recommend March–May and September–November for comfy air temps around 24–29°C. The water stays warm year-round, so morning snorkels work in any month.

Hurghada International Airport links directly with Cairo and many European hubs — plan arrivals early and departures late when possible for full days.

• Neighborhoods: Stay by the Marina or El Mamsha for easy access to restaurants, sunset walks, and quick pier exits on boat days.
• Transport: Taxis and hotel shuttles cover short hops; Egypt Planners handles airport pickups, local shuttles, and staggered start times to dodge crowds.
• Hotel picks: Choose properties with pier access—short walks mean more sea time and less fuss with gear.

Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard, and a light scarf for sun or dust. If wind closes the sea, swap a boat morning for the museum or aquarium and boat the calm day after.

I manage your plan as your on-the-ground guide, so logistics are simple and your days feel relaxed. Book smart, leave space for surprises, and you’ll enjoy more memorable hours by the sea.

Conclusion

Close out your visit with a short, smart plan that lets the Red Sea and the desert share the spotlight.

From reef-hopping boat mornings to starry desert dinners, this coastal base stacks bright moments into a brief trip. Mix two sea days, one sunset in the dunes, and a culture stop for a perfect first-day rhythm.

Ready when you are — Egypt Planners will weave transfers, timing, and trusted local guides so you can simply show up and smile. Add a Luxor or monastery day if you crave deeper history; it’s easy to tack on and impossible to forget.

I hope this guide helps you map the days that matter most—the underwater world by morning, warm evening strolls by night. Ask me to plan your tour, and the rest is handled.