Hurghada's great trick is timing. While the rest of the Mediterranean shuts down for winter, the Red Sea stays warm and swimmable, the sky stays blue, and the reefs stay spectacular. It is one of the few places you can reliably chase the sun in October, February or March.
Under the water
This is the real reason to come. The Red Sea has some of the clearest, most colourful reefs on the planet, and Hurghada is a launchpad: house reefs off the beach, boat trips to Giftun Island, and world-class dive and snorkel sites teeming with fish, coral and the occasional turtle.
The resorts
Most hotels are large all-inclusive complexes with their own beaches and pools, spread along the coast and in the newer Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay zones, which are calmer and more upscale.
Beyond the beach
Take a desert quad or jeep safari at sunset, browse the buzzing Marina and old town (El Dahar), or make the long day trip to the temples of Luxor.
When to go
Spring and autumn are perfect. Winter is mild and sunny — ideal for sun-seekers — while July and August are very hot.
Good to know
- Bring or rent a good mask and snorkel; the reef is the highlight.
- Tip in small notes — it is part of the culture.
- Drink bottled water and choose busy restaurants for freshness.
