HURGHADA & THE RED SEA RIVIERA
Hurghada is the pulsating heart of Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera, a global gateway to an underwater paradise. Its dazzling coral reefs and clear, warm waters make it a premier destination.
This stunning coastal stretch combines world-class diving and desert safari adventures with vibrant, modern resorts and historical maritime appeal. It is a land of sun, sea, and unforgettable experiences.
Most Popular Attractions
Underwater Wonders & Diving Sites:
Giftun Islands National Park: A protected marine area famous for pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and excellent snorkeling/diving on nearby reefs.
Sha’ab El Erg (Dolphin House): A horseshoe-shaped reef famous for frequent encounters with pods of wild spinner dolphins.
El Fanadir: Hurghada’s longest coral reef, ideal for drift dives and spotting a vast array of marine life.
Abu Nuhas Wreck Cemetery: The site of several historic shipwrecks, including the famous Carnatic and Giannis D, a must-visit for wreck divers.
Ras Mohammed National Park: Located near Sharm El Sheikh, but often visited on day trips, it’s globally renowned for its spectacular, diverse coral reef walls.
The Salem Express Wreck: A deeply moving and advanced dive site, the ferry sank in 1991 and is one of the Red Sea’s most famous wrecks.
City Core & Cultural Sites:
Hurghada Marina: A modern, vibrant hub with restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars, popular for evening strolls and boat excursions.
El Dahar Square & Souk: The oldest and most traditional part of Hurghada, offering a local market experience for spices, leather, and souvenirs.
Abdulmoneim Riadh Mosque: A prominent and beautiful mosque, offering a glimpse into the local religious and architectural culture.
Coptic Orthodox Church of St. Shenouda: A local religious landmark, reflecting the diversity of the Egyptian community.
Coastal Resorts & Towns:
El Gouna: A self-contained, luxury resort town built on islands and connected by lagoons and bridges, known for its elegant architecture and relaxed atmosphere.
Sahl Hasheesh: A luxurious and secluded bay area, famed for its long pier, pristine beaches, and upscale resorts.
Makadi Bay: A quieter resort area south of Hurghada, known for its beautiful house reefs and family-friendly atmosphere.
Soma Bay: A peninsula resort known for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing, and its high-end spa facilities.
Desert & Land Adventures:
Eastern Desert Safari: Adventure trips (by quad bike or dune buggy) into the surrounding Arabian desert to visit traditional Bedouin villages.
Sand City Hurghada: An open-air museum featuring impressive, detailed sculptures made entirely of sand.
Hurghada Grand Aquarium: A large aquarium focusing on the Red Sea’s diverse ecosystems and marine conservation.
Activities & Attractions (Non-Diving):
Sindbad Submarine: Offers a unique experience to view the underwater world without getting wet, descending to depths of up to 22 meters.
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: Excellent conditions and schools found in areas like El Gouna and Soma Bay.
Aqua Parks & Water Slides: Numerous resorts offer massive water parks, such as the Jungle Aqua Park, providing fun for all ages.
Dolphin World Hurghada (Dolphinella): A facility offering performances and swimming experiences with trained dolphins.
Hurghada Public Beach (Old Vic): A popular spot for local swimming and sunbathing outside the private resort areas.
Activities & Experiences
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: Explore the world-renowned coral reefs of the Red Sea. Sites like Giftun Island, Abu Ramada, and the SS Thistlegorm wreck offer unparalleled marine biodiversity.
Take a Desert Safari by Quad Bike: Join an adrenaline-pumping tour across the surrounding Arabian Desert, often including a visit to a traditional Bedouin village.
Visit the Grand Aquarium: Spend a day exploring the Hurghada Grand Aquarium, which offers close-up views of the Red Sea’s diverse marine life without getting wet.
Go on a Submarine or Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: For non-swimmers, experience the underwater world from the comfort of a semi-submarine or a glass-bottom boat.
Learn to Kitesurf or Windsurf: The steady, warm winds make spots like El Gouna and Soma Bay perfect for learning or practicing these exciting watersports.
Take a Day Trip to Luxor: While a long journey, visit the historical wonders of Luxor, including the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon.
Enjoy a Sunset Horse or Camel Ride: Experience a peaceful ride along the beach or through the desert as the sun sets over the rugged landscape.
Sail to Mahmya or Orange Bay: Take a boat trip to one of the nearby, stunning islands (part of the Giftun Islands National Park) for pure white sand, clear water, and snorkeling.
Go Deep-Sea Fishing: Charter a boat for an exciting fishing trip in the deeper waters of the Red Sea.
Stroll and Shop at the El Dahar Bazaar: Explore the oldest part of Hurghada, El Dahar, for a more authentic Egyptian experience, haggling for spices, souvenirs, and traditional clothing.
Experience the Alf Leila Wa Leila Show: Attend the “1001 Nights” show in Hurghada, which features Egyptian folk music, belly dancing, and a spectacle of pharaonic history.
Local Tips & Transport
Taxis are Abundant: Taxis are the primary way to get around the city. Always agree on the fare (or demand the meter be used) before getting in, as meters are often “broken” for tourists. White and orange taxis are the standard.
Microbuses (Minibuses): These are the most common and cheapest form of local transport. They run along fixed routes but are not marked. To use one, simply stand on the side of the road and flag down a passing bus. Shout out your destination; if it’s on their route, they will stop. Pay the driver a small, fixed fare (local currency is essential).
Hotel Transfers: For excursions and day trips, your hotel or tour operator will almost always arrange air-conditioned coach transfers, which are the safest and most convenient option for longer distances (e.g., to Luxor or Cairo).
Walking vs. Driving: The resorts are designed for walking. Outside of the resort areas, walking can be challenging due to traffic and uneven pavements. A car is generally not necessary for tourists staying in the main resort areas, as excursions include transport.
Tipping (Baksheesh): Tipping is an integral part of Egyptian culture, known as baksheesh. It’s expected for nearly all services (baggage handlers, taxi drivers, cleaning staff, waiters). Keep a good supply of small bills (local currency) handy.
Dress Code: While resorts are very relaxed, and swimwear is fine by the pool or beach, be respectful when moving outside the resort gates, especially when visiting El Dahar or mosques. Women should cover shoulders and knees in public, non-resort areas.
Stay Hydrated: The heat and sun can be intense year-round. Always drink plenty of bottled water (tap water is not safe to drink) and use high-factor sunscreen. Plan outdoor activities for the cooler morning or late afternoon.
Haggling in the Bazaar: In the traditional markets (like the one in El Dahar), haggling is expected and part of the experience. Start at about 50% of the initial asking price and negotiate politely. Do not engage in a price discussion unless you are serious about buying.
The Weekend: The official weekend in Egypt is Friday and Saturday, with most businesses operating normally on Sunday. Be aware that opening times for non-tourist shops might be affected on Friday.
Language: Arabic is the official language. English, German, and Russian are widely spoken in the tourism industry. Learning basic phrases like Shukran (Thank you) and Salam ‘alaykum (Hello/Peace be upon you) will be greatly appreciated.
Hidden Gems:
- Port Ghalib: A modern, upscale marina and resort town south of Hurghada, featuring beautiful yachts, sophisticated dining, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the bustle of Hurghada’s main streets.
- The Monastery of St. Anthony: Situated in the Eastern Desert, this is one of the oldest inhabited Christian monasteries in the world. It’s a fascinating, cultural day trip that offers a glimpse into Egypt’s Coptic Christian history.
- El Gouna’s Downtown (Tamr Henna Square): This charming, self-contained town built on a series of islands offers a picturesque lagoon setting, stylish shops, and a vibrant evening atmosphere.
Top Restaurants
Gad Restaurant [$5-$15] – A popular Egyptian chain (though still very local) known for its budget-friendly, satisfying comfort foods like foul, falafel (ta’ameya), shawarma, and kebabs.
Starfish Restaurant [$10-$20] – A warm, cozy local favorite in Sekalla specializing in fresh seafood, where you can choose your fish from the display. Famous for grilled shrimp and Baklawez (clams).
Sammak Misr [$10-$20] – A hidden gem loved for its ultra-fresh fish and authentic Egyptian seafood flavors, offering affordable prices and a laid-back vibe.
Hefny Fish Restaurant [$15-$25] – Known for authentic Egyptian seafood dishes served in a relaxed, local environment, offering kids’ menus and great for families.
Namliyah – نملية (Egyptian Eatery) [$10-$20] – Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine in a setting where every dish tells a story of local flavors and tradition.
El Halaka Fish Restaurant [$15-$25] – A legendary spot near El Mina Mosque with a lively, casual atmosphere. You pick your fresh catch and choose your cooking style.
Sofra [$15-$25] – Located in Madinat Makadi, this local delight serves excellent food with a stunning ambience, focusing on Mediterranean and local Egyptian favorites like hummus and falafel.
El Masry [$15-$25] – A traditional, no-frills Egyptian restaurant in the Dahar area, offering hearty portions of classic Egyptian stews, grilled meats, and rice dishes.
Abou Ashara Koshari [$5-$10] – A very local spot to try the quintessential Egyptian street food, Koshari (a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce).
Al Pasha [$15-$30] – Located in the Dahar area, this restaurant is known for its authentic, slow-cooked Egyptian specialties and traditional atmosphere, popular with locals.
Maharani Indian Restaurant (El Gouna) [$20-$35] – While not Egyptian, this local El Gouna spot is known for its authentic Indian cuisine, a popular non-seafood option among residents.
Moby Dick Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located on Sheraton Road, this spot is famous for its diverse menu, but locals love it for its traditional dishes and, surprisingly, its famous camel steak with pepper sauce.
El Bahr Seafood Restaurant (El Gouna) [$20-$35] – Right on the beach, this spot offers a Greek-style taverna atmosphere with Egyptian and Mediterranean cooking methods, highly popular with locals away from the main marinas.
Kebabgi [$15-$25] – Specializing in authentic Egyptian-style charcoal-grilled meats, including kofta (minced meat skewers) and kebabs, offering a smoky, local flavor.
Al Sultan [$15-$25] – A highly-regarded local spot for traditional Egyptian breakfast items like foul and ta’ameya in the Hurghada city area.
Abu Ali [$10-$20] – A well-known small, local eatery focused on simple, delicious Egyptian street food and fresh juices.
El Bahr Seafood Restaurant (Kite Center) [$25-$45] – Offers freshly caught Red Sea seafood, prepared simply to let the ingredients shine, in a white-washed, Greek-style taverna setting by the sea.
Offshore Fish & Shrimp [$20-$40] – Known for its daily fresh catches and signature seafood dishes, this spot is focused purely on quality Red Sea flavors.
EL Mina Fish Restaurant [$20-$40] – A popular spot serving classic Egyptian seafood dishes, including beautifully grilled and fried fish, in a casual yet trendy setting.
The Smokery Yacht Club (El Gouna) [$35-$60] – Located on the marina, this elegant spot is known for top-quality seafood and Japanese-style cuisine, perfect for a refined waterfront experience.
Langosta Seafood [$25-$45] – A true seafood lover’s dream with a menu of grilled fish, calamari, and hearty seafood stews, offering beautiful views of the Red Sea.
Waves Restaurant & Lounge Bar [$25-$45] – Located on Marina Boulevard, this lively spot offers fresh seafood platters paired with creative cocktails and great water views.
Chopsticks (El Gouna) [$20-$35] – While primarily Chinese, they offer excellent fresh Red Sea seafood prepared with Asian flair in a beautiful Abu Tig Marina setting.
Alex Beach Club Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers exquisite Izakaya-style dining by the beach, blending fresh Red Sea seafood with Japanese traditions.
Tanga Beach Restaurant [$30-$50] – Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning ocean views in a relaxed, breezy atmosphere right on the beach.
The Lodge Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located on Hurghada Marina Boulevard, this upscale diner serves continental and local barbeque, but their Mediterranean-style grilled fish is a favorite.
Ocean 11 Restaurant [$20-$35] – A favorite in the El Ahia area, offering quality seafood and Western cuisine with a view of the beautiful Red Sea coast.
Pier 88 El Gouna [$40-$70] – A trendy, upscale restaurant built on a floating platform in Abu Tig Marina, known for blue risotto, steak, and creative international dishes. Reservations essential.
Zia Amelia Italian Restaurant (El Gouna) [$25-$45] – Highly-regarded for authentic Italian cuisine, serving homemade pasta and Neapolitan-style pizza in a cozy, trattoria setting in Downtown El Gouna.
Saigon (El Gouna) [$20-$40] – Often cited as one of the best in the area, this Vietnamese restaurant in Abu Tig Marina is run by a Vietnamese lady and is known for its consistent and authentic food, like pho. Cash only.
Chicha (El Gouna) [$25-$45] – A fun, bohemian-vibe Latin American spot offering a range of Peruvian, Mexican, and Spanish dishes, focusing on modern spins on traditional tapas and excellent tacos.
Chuchichäschtli (Swiss House) (El Gouna) [$25-$45] – One of the coziest eateries, known for Swiss comfort dishes like cheese fondue, spätzli, and excellent steaks in a charming, welcoming atmosphere.
Granada Restaurant & Pub [$20-$40] – Offers a blend of casual elegance and fine dining on the Old Sheraton Road, with a menu of scratch-made international dishes and stunning sea views.
Karibu Bar & Restaurant (El Gouna) [$15-$30] – A beautiful and cozy eatery serving good food, including great cheeseburgers and fries, in Downtown El Gouna, often frequented by locals and long-term residents.
Mafia Pizzeria & Cafe [$15-$30] – Known for its mouthwatering homemade pizzas and diverse cafe menu, this is a popular non-touristic choice for casual international food.
The Moon restaurant & Bar [$20-$40] – Offers a focus on culinary excellence, where flavors and traditions blend in an exquisite dining experience.
A Modo Mio [$25-$45] – An Italian restaurant known for its quality pasta and cozy, authentic atmosphere, often a preferred choice over larger, more commercial Italian spots.
El Khema [$20-$35] – Specializing in Lebanese cuisine, this restaurant offers rich flavors, warm hospitality, and classic dishes like extensive mezzes and mixed grills.
MerBey (El Gouna) [$25-$45] – A charming Lebanese restaurant tucked away on a boardwalk in front of Mosaique Hotel, known for its varieties of hummus and grilled platters in a quieter, waterfront setting.
Sobha (Steigenberger Aldau) [$50-$80] – A high-end Indian fine dining experience known for its creative and refined take on traditional dishes in an elegant, modern setting.
Felicity on Wheels (The Red Sea) [$40-$70] – A unique dining experience, often a specialty offering at high-end resorts (check specific hotel schedules), focusing on a gourmet meal served in a distinctive, private setting.
Solo Restaurant & Lounge [$30-$50] – A hidden delight near Hilton Plaza, popular for its Mediterranean-style cooking, especially grilled fish and seafood platters, with many vegan options.
Lophelia Seafood Restaurant (Hilton Hurghada) [$40-$70] – Serves creative and refined seafood dishes, offering elegant service and a rooftop setting perfect for a romantic dinner.
Yades (Poseidon Restaurant) (Meraki Resort) [$30-$50] – Offers delicious Mediterranean food with a Greek twist, including classics like gyros and moussaka, in a stylish resort setting.
Sky Restaurant (Steigenberger Aqua Magic) [$40-$70] – A rooftop restaurant offering amazing views of the Red Sea and mountains, often with special four-course menus, perfect for a romantic, elevated experience.
White Elephant (El Gouna) [$40-$70] – A popular fine dining spot in El Gouna for quality Thai cuisine, known for its elegant ambiance and refined flavors.
Al Dente Restaurant (Long Beach) [$30-$50] – Offers exquisite Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients in a stunning coastal setting.
Makai Tukai (Steigenberger Al Dau) [$40-$70] – Known for its modern interpretation of Far Eastern cuisine, offering a unique fusion experience.
La Playa [$30-$50] – A beachfront haven for dining, drinks, and dancing, offering quality food in a vibrant atmosphere right on the sand.
The Grill (El Gouna) [$40-$70] – Offers high-quality grilled meats and a luxurious dining experience, focusing on perfectly cooked steaks and an extensive wine list.
S-Square Samurai (Sahl Hasheesh) [$35-$60] – Located in Sahl Hasheesh, this spot offers a fun, high-quality Japanese Teppanyaki experience, great for groups.
La Trattoria (Makadi Bay) [$30-$50] – A highly-rated Italian restaurant in the Makadi Bay area, known for its authentic, hearty Italian dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Elements (Sahl Hasheesh) [$30-$50] – A modern restaurant in Sahl Hasheesh known for its creative international cuisine and stylish, contemporary design.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Moods Bar: Located right on the water overlooking the beautiful Abu Tig Marina in El Gouna, this spot is perfect for sunset cocktails. It’s known for its chill vibes, scenic views, and great food menu.
The Tavern: A classic British-style pub experience found in the heart of Hurghada. It offers a wide selection of beers, spirits, and pub fare, making it a comfortable spot for a casual drink.
Peanuts Bar: Situated in the Abu Tig Marina area of El Gouna, this popular venue is more than just a bar, offering cocktails, live duets, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere until the early morning.
Caribbean Bar: A rustic yet chic beachfront bar on Sheraton Road in Hurghada. It offers tropical vibes, an extensive cocktail menu, and a great mix of laid-back dining that transitions into pulsing music and dancing at night.
ZOUNI Lounge Bar: Experience a vibrant night out with exquisite drinks in this lively atmosphere in El Gouna.
The Tap South: Known for its lively atmosphere and delicious drinks, this bar in El Gouna is a great spot to enjoy a night out.
The Smugglers: Located in El Gouna, this is an inviting bar where you can find a relaxed atmosphere by the Red Sea, perfect for unwinding with a drink.
Tambel Irish Pub El Gouna: Bringing a taste of Irish hospitality to the Red Sea, this pub in El Gouna is a welcoming spot for a pint and a friendly night out.
Hard Rock Cafe: Found near the main resort areas of Hurghada, this iconic rock-themed venue is a great spot for music lovers to sip on signature cocktails and enjoy classic tunes.
Luca’s Pub & Grub: A popular sports bar located at the Hurghada Marina, perfect for catching a game, enjoying pub grub, and sipping on a refreshing drink.
DuPort Pool Club Bar: While known as a club, its poolside setting at the New Marina in Hurghada makes it a stylish spot for pre-party cocktails with views of the marina.
Papas Bar Hambra: Situated in Hurghada, this is a great spot for enjoying a mix of live music, beautiful ocean views, and a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
Club Soda: An intimate lounge bar located within the Desert Rose Resort in Hurghada, known for its lively, laid-back atmosphere, live music, and top-shelf cocktails.
The Rooftop Terrace: Located at Serry Beach Resort in Hurghada, this Bedouin-inspired setting offers sweeping sea views, shisha, authentic mezze, and a promise of Arabian nights under the stars.
Naz Cabaret: A sophisticated, decadent subterranean lounge in Hurghada that offers a 1940s-inspired ambiance, smoky cocktails, and nightly performances, perfect for a secret, vintage-soul night out.
Little Buddha Disco: An iconic nightclub located near the New Marina in Hurghada, known for its impressive Asian-inspired décor (giant Buddha statues) and transforming from a chic restaurant into a high-energy dance venue playing electronic and house music.
Elements Club & Lounge: Found at the Steigenberger Hotel at Hurghada Marina, this stylish spot offers a mix of American-style club ambiance and local flair, playing hip-hop, EDM, and house music with electrifying DJ sets.
Ministry of Sound: One of the city’s largest open-air clubs, located right in the heart of Hurghada Marina. Famous for hosting international DJs, spectacular shows, and high-energy themed nights that last until sunrise.
Calypso Disco: One of the oldest and most iconic discos in Hurghada, situated near the marina. It offers a traditional, vibrant clubbing experience with music ranging from house and techno to Arabic beats.
White Beach Hurghada: A sophisticated beach club on the Hurghada coastline that transforms into a vibrant, open-air party hotspot after sunset, featuring international DJs, a massive pool, and themed events.
Papas Beach Club: A popular open-air beachfront nightlife destination along Hurghada’s main coastline, offering a mix of DJ sessions and themed beach parties where you can dance under the stars.
Aurora: A renowned club situated near the Sheraton Street area of Hurghada and also found in El Gouna, featuring state-of-the-art lighting, electrifying DJ performances, and an expansive dance floor popular with both tourists and locals.
DuPort Pool Club: Located at the New Marina in Hurghada, this spot combines a lively nightclub atmosphere with a poolside setting, making it a popular venue for electronic music fans and themed pool parties.