The beach isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Egypt. It always surprises me when people visit this country with some of the world’s most significant history and never venture further than their resort in Sharm El-Sheikh or Hurghada. That said, everyone’s different and touring the many sites of Egypt is tiring therefore, Hurghada or Sharm is a well-earned break after doing so, a good base from where to take tours or for doing nothing at all.

This was my third visit to my spiritual home, and as I had already toured many monuments and temples, this time was purely a chilled-out beach occasion.

As Hurghada was only founded at the turn of the 20th century and only began to develop as a beach resort destination in more recent decades, there is not much in the way of history to explore here. Furthermore, as a resort town, it is well tourist-trodden, but it is home to some of the country’s best stretch of coastline, hotels and diving sites. If you are considering a visit for a beach holiday, here are five best things to do in Hurghada.

1. Hit the Beach

Pretty much the main thing to do in Hurghada is to lounge on its famed golden sand beaches. Most of the beaches are claimed by the numerous resorts that stretch along the coast. If you’re not staying at a resort, there are also public beaches that you can visit, and most resorts offer day access to non-guests.

Arguably, some of the best stretches of beach are just outside of Hurghada at Sahl Hasheesh and may also be a more relaxing experience as it is less busy. Check out Sunrise Romance Resort – Adults Only if you plan to stay in this area.

2. Visit Hurghada Town

For authentic Egyptian shops, restaurants and souks selling leather, papyrus, spices, and shisha pipes, visit the Old Town of El Dahar. If you’re looking for souvenirs, crafts, silver, and the hustle and bustle, check out the shops and markets of Hurghada’s famous Sheraton Road. Be prepared to haggle, and if you’re not interested in the vendor’s offerings, be polite (but firm) with your “no” and keep stepping.

For a more relaxing experience, turn off Sheraton Road onto the marina. This modern edition of the town has a selection of international dining establishments, shopping and a beach area. It also occasionally holds festivals and exhibitions. Hurghada Marina has become well known for its exclusive bars and restaurants, yachts, designer shops and luxurious holiday apartments that surround the port.

Also in town is the Hurghada Museum, but if you have already visited the museum in Cairo, this will pale in comparison.

3. Visit Giftun Island

Giftun Island National Park is possibly Hurghada’s most popular boat excursion. The island comprises four beaches (Paradise, Orange, Mahmya and Giftun), with the main difference being the development of these beaches and the facilities available. Paradise Beach and Orange Bay have the most facilities and are therefore more popular and most luxurious. 

Orange Bay is also known as the Egyptian Caribbean Island, and once you witness the dreamy translucent blue waters and white sand beaches, you will understand why. Here you can relax on beanbags, kayak or snap a photo opportunity while in the water on the swings or hammocks. It’s an unforgettable stop.

Royal Cruise Hurghada offer great trips to Orange Bay that include snorkelling stops, a banana and sofa ride and Egyptian fishing. Additionally, they offer a masseuse service on board, a delicious seafood lunch buffet and optional scuba diving (see below). I booked through Get Your Guide.

4. Go Scuba Diving

After being wowed by all Egypt offers above the water, explore the fascinating, vibrant marine life it offers below in the Red sea.

Hurghada has a superb range of diving tours, and sites are just a short boat ride away. The country’s year-round sunshine means the water is warm, visibility superb, and the stunning, multi-coloured coral reef and fishes mind-blowing. You will witness an abundance of strikingly beautifully hued fishes that aren’t shy to approach. It’s a memorable experience that will further deepen your love of Mother Nature!

If you’re a novice, there are plenty of shallow dive sites suitable for beginners. If this is your first time, after witnessing the wonders of the underwater world in Egypt, it is highly likely it won’t be your last.

5. Sunset Quad tour along the sea and mountains

There’s quad biking, and then there’s quad biking through the valleys and mountains of the vast, golden Egyptian desert. It’s a bumpy ride, and you will be covered head to toe in sand, but the adrenaline rush as you speed through the desert dunes at sunset is unreal.

It’s both freeing and thrilling, and the sun setting between the mountains and clifftop views of the Red Sea awe-inspiring. The sunset quad tour is a must-do tour for the adventurous thrill-seeker and is another unforgettable Hurghada experience!

Tours often also include the cliché camel ride. Hold tight when it stands and sits!

You can hire glasses and buy a scarf for EGP100 (approx. £5.00).

Conclusion

Hurghada was very different to my usual Egypt trips. A far cry from the pyramids and other ancient Egyptian monuments that we all marvel at but still exceeded my expectations. I haven’t visited a disappointing part of Egypt yet, and neither have I ever had concerns for my safety.

As Hurghada is a resort town, it is one of the easiest parts of Egypt for a solo female traveller to visit. For a recharge, reset and general fun in the sun, Hurghada is the perfect antidote.