Fun Things To Do in Hurghada and El Gouna: Explore Their Beauty

Hurghada and El Gouna are two of Egypt’s most popular Red Sea resorts, each offering unique experiences for travelers. Hurghada is famous for its lively nightlife, bustling bazaars, and amazing diving opportunities, while El Gouna is more laid-back, offering luxury, scenic beaches, and water sports. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a beach lover, or a history enthusiast, you’ll find something to enjoy in these Red Sea paradises.

Here’s a comprehensive list of fun things to do in Hurghada and El Gouna:

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in the Red Sea

The Red Sea is a world-renowned diving destination thanks to its clear waters, breathtaking coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Hurghada and El Gouna are two of the best bases for exploring this underwater paradise.

• Hurghada: Numerous diving centers cater to both beginners and advanced divers. Some of the most popular dive locations include Giftun Island, known for its abundant marine life, and Abu Ramada, famous for its coral gardens and vibrant fish species. You can also dive at Sha’ab El Erg, where you’ll have a good chance of swimming alongside wild dolphins.
• El Gouna: Although quieter than Hurghada, El Gouna offers excellent diving opportunities. The Shabaha Reef and El Gouna’s dive sites are less crowded but equally impressive, with plenty of colorful corals, sponges, and sea creatures to discover. Local diving centers offer day trips, equipment rental, and certification courses.

For snorkeling, you don’t even need to dive deep to witness the Red Sea’s splendor. Day trips from both locations take you to snorkeling spots like Dolphin House and Magawish Island. These trips often include meals and beach stops.

2. Relax on the Beaches

Hurghada and El Gouna are famous for their pristine beaches, offering a mixture of relaxation, water activities, and picturesque scenery.

• Hurghada: There is a mix of public and private beaches here. Sahl Hasheesh, just south of Hurghada, is a luxurious beachfront community where the beaches are pristine, quiet, and perfect for relaxation. Makadi Bay, another nearby spot, is ideal for families with calm waters and beachfront resorts that offer everything from fine dining to beachfront activities.
• El Gouna: For a more exclusive experience, head to Zeytouna Beach, located on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. The lagoon here is serene, and the shallow waters make it perfect for wading, especially if you prefer a peaceful, wave-free beach. You can also enjoy water sports, paddleboarding, and a floating bar where you can sip fresh juice or a cocktail while lounging in the sun.

The beaches in both locations offer various amenities, from water sports centers to beach bars, making them ideal spots for a relaxing day by the sea.

3. Kiteboarding and Windsurfing

Both Hurghada and El Gouna are famous for their ideal wind conditions, which make them top destinations for kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts worldwide.

• El Gouna: Recognized as one of the best kiteboarding spots on the Red Sea, El Gouna attracts both beginners and professionals. The shallow lagoons and steady winds provide the perfect environment for learning or perfecting your skills. Mangroovy Beach is the go-to spot, with several schools offering lessons, rentals, and kite safaris, where you can explore remote areas along the coast. Watching the colorful kites soar against the backdrop of the turquoise sea is a visual treat in itself.
• Hurghada: Head south to Soma Bay or Safaga for thrilling windsurfing and kiteboarding. The wide bays and strong winds make these perfect locations for adrenaline junkies looking to hit the waves. Schools in the area provide equipment rentals and professional coaching.

For those new to kiteboarding or windsurfing, introductory courses are available in both locations, making them accessible to everyone.

4. Take a Boat Trip to Orange Bay

Orange Bay is a slice of paradise located about 45 minutes from Hurghada by boat. It is often referred to as the “Maldives of Egypt.”

• The island’s shallow, clear waters and powdery white sand make it a perfect place for a day trip. Most boat excursions to Orange Bay include snorkeling stops where you can marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. The island itself is equipped with sun loungers, cabanas, and a beachfront restaurant serving refreshing drinks and snacks. You can spend your day swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking.

Orange Bay is particularly popular for its laid-back atmosphere, where you can unwind, take photos, and soak up the serene beauty of the Red Sea.

5. Explore El Gouna by Tuk-Tuk

El Gouna is a unique resort town, often called the “Venice of Egypt” due to its network of lagoons and canals. Exploring this charming town by tuk-tuk is one of the most enjoyable and affordable ways to get around.

• Tuk-tuk rides offer a fun, quick way to navigate El Gouna’s various neighborhoods, from the bustling Downtown to the luxurious Marina. You’ll pass beautifully designed villas, gardens, and shops along the way. You can stop at Downtown El Gouna for a coffee at one of the open-air cafes or browse the boutiques selling artisanal products, clothing, and souvenirs.

The Marina, full of yachts and lined with upscale restaurants, is also a great spot to stop for a meal or enjoy the view.

6. Hurghada Marina Boulevard

Hurghada’s Marina Boulevard is a lively promenade that comes alive in the evening. It’s the perfect place to take a relaxing walk or enjoy the nightlife.

• Lined with trendy cafes, upscale restaurants, and lounges, it offers an ideal setting for dinner with a view. There’s a wide selection, whether you’re in the mood for seafood, Mediterranean cuisine, or traditional Egyptian fare. Some of the famous restaurants along the boulevard include Star Fish, famous for its fresh seafood, and Caribbean Bar, which has a lively vibe with live music and great cocktails.

If you’re interested in shopping, the Marina has numerous boutiques selling everything from beachwear to souvenirs. After dinner, you can board a boat for a sunset cruise or visit one of the trendy nightclubs for some late-night dancing.

7. Desert Safari Adventures

One of the most thrilling ways to experience the vast Egyptian desert is by joining a desert safari. Whether you prefer speeding through the dunes on a quad bike or experiencing a traditional camel ride, the desert outside Hurghada and El Gouna offers endless adventure.

• Quad biking is the most popular option, allowing you to zip across the rugged desert terrain. These trips typically include a stop at a Bedouin village, where you can meet the locals, sip on traditional Bedouin tea, and learn about their way of life. For those looking for a slower-paced adventure, opt for a camel ride to take in the serene landscape at a leisurely pace.

Many desert safaris offer a stargazing experience in the evening. The desert skies, free from light pollution, are perfect for watching the stars and constellations in breathtaking clarity. Some tours include a traditional Bedouin dinner and live entertainment, like belly dancing or fire shows, to round off the evening.

8. Hurghada Grand Aquarium

The Hurghada Grand Aquarium offers an exciting and educational experience, especially for families and those interested in marine life.

• This expansive aquarium features many Red Sea species, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, and various tropical fish. The Underwater Tunnel is one of the highlights, where you can walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by marine creatures swimming above and around you. The aquarium also offers interactive exhibits, including opportunities to feed the fish and learn about marine conservation efforts.

It’s a great indoor activity if you’re searching for something to do on a particularly hot day or want to take a break from the beach.

9. Visit the Mini Egypt Park

The Mini Egypt Park, located near Hurghada, offers a fun and educational experience for all ages by showcasing miniature replicas of Egypt’s most famous landmarks.

• Walking through this park allows you to see over 60 scaled-down models of iconic monuments, such as the Pyramids of Giza, Karnak Temple, and Abu Simbel. This is a great way to explore Egypt’s rich history in a condensed and interactive way, especially for those who may only have time to visit some of the actual sites in person. The park is also a hit with kids, making learning about Egypt’s ancient culture more engaging.

Guided tours are available to provide insight into the history and significance of each model, and there are plenty of opportunities for taking pictures.

10. Day Trip to Luxor

For a truly enriching experience, take a day trip to Luxor, one of Egypt’s most important historical cities, located just a few hours’ drive from Hurghada.

• Luxor is home to some of the country’s most impressive ancient ruins, including the Valley of the Kings, where you can explore the tombs of ancient pharaohs such as Tutankhamun. The massive Karnak Temple is one of the largest religious buildings ever constructed, with intricately carved pillars and hieroglyphs that offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian religion. The Temple of Hatshepsut, a scenic structure built into the cliffs, is dedicated to one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs.

Day tours from Hurghada usually include transportation, lunch, and a guide who can provide historical context and stories about the various temples and tombs. Although it’s a long day, this trip is a must for history lovers and a chance to see some of Egypt’s most significant ancient sites.

11. Sinbad Submarine Ride

The Sinbad Submarine is a unique alternative if you’re not into diving but still want to explore the Red Sea’s underwater world.

• This real submarine takes passengers 22 meters (72 feet) below the surface, offering panoramic views of the Red Sea’s coral reefs and marine life from the comfort of a dry cabin. You can spot schools of fish, colorful coral formations, and even the occasional sea turtle or ray through large viewing windows. The submarine ride typically lasts around two hours and is a family-friendly activity.

It’s perfect for those who want a unique experience without getting wet or putting on snorkeling gear.

12. Horseback Riding Along the Beach

Imagine galloping along the sandy shores of the Red Sea with the wind in your hair – this is what you can experience with a horseback riding tour in Hurghada or El Gouna.

• Several stables in both areas offer guided tours along the beach or into the desert, with horses suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner, you can take in the stunning views of the coastline, with the turquoise waters on one side and the golden desert on the other.

For a particularly memorable experience, book a sunset ride. While riding through the serene landscape, you can watch the sun dip below the horizon.

13. Coptic Cathedral of Saint Shenouda

The Coptic Cathedral of Saint Shenouda is a beautiful, modern church in Hurghada, offering a serene and spiritual retreat from the busy resort life.

• This scenic cathedral, named after Saint Shenouda the Archimandrite, is famous for its impressive architecture and intricate stained-glass windows. Inside, you’ll find a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors are often struck by the cathedral’s grandeur and the sense of history it imparts about Egypt’s Christian Coptic community, one of the world’s oldest Christian communities.

Visiting the cathedral provides a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual and cultural history of Egypt’s Copts, a vital part of the country’s diverse heritage.

14. Spa and Wellness Treatments

Both Hurghada and El Gouna offer many luxurious spa and wellness experiences, perfect for rejuvenating after days filled with adventure.

• The Red Sea region is home to excellent spas where you can indulge in everything from traditional Egyptian hammams to modern treatments like deep-tissue massages, facials, and body wraps. Many resorts, including the Steigenberger Golf Resort in El Gouna and the Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort, offer on-site spas to enjoy these treatments in a tranquil setting.

For an extra-special experience, try a thalassotherapy treatment using seawater, seaweed, and marine mud to detox and rejuvenate your skin.

15. Explore El Dahar – Hurghada’s Old Town

For a taste of traditional Egyptian culture, head to El Dahar, the old town of Hurghada.

• In contrast to the modern resorts and marinas, El Dahar offers a more authentic Egyptian experience with its narrow streets, local markets (souks), and traditional coffeehouses. The bazaar is a lively place where you can haggle for souvenirs, spices, handicrafts, and clothing. Be sure to visit a local café to sip on Egyptian coffee or try shisha while watching the world go by.

Additionally, El Dahar has several mosques, including the impressive Abdulmoneim Riadh Mosque, which is worth a visit for its beautiful architecture.

Conclusion

Hurghada and El Gouna are rich in activities and experiences, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure through desert safaris and water sports, cultural immersion in historic sites, or relaxation on marvelous beaches and spa retreats, these Red Sea destinations provide an unforgettable combination of luxury, excitement, and natural beauty. From diving into the depths of the Red Sea to exploring Egypt’s ancient wonders, a trip to Hurghada and El Gouna will leave you with memories that last forever.