The Ultimate Guide to Hurghada: Sun, Sea, and Family Fun in Egypt’s Red Sea Paradise

sarah williams
May 10
5 min read

If you’re dreaming of golden sands, turquoise waters that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a postcard, and a sun that shines all year round, then Hurghada needs to be at the top of your travel list.

I’ve been helping people find their perfect getaways for over 20 years now as part of the Hays Travel family, and I can honestly say that Hurghada is one of those rare destinations that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a family looking for a high-energy water park holiday, a couple seeking a touch of luxury, or an adventurer wanting to dive into the deep blue, this Red Sea gem delivers every single time.

In this guide, I’m going to break down everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Hurghada. So, grab a cuppa, and let’s dive in!

Why Hurghada is a Family Favourite

One of the questions I get asked most often is, "Where can we go that will keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank?" My answer is almost always Hurghada.

The resort culture here is built around families. Most hotels are huge, all-inclusive complexes where you don’t have to worry about a thing from the moment you land. We’re talking kids' clubs, evening entertainment, and: the star of the show: world-class water parks.

If your kids (or you!) are water babies, you have to check out resorts like the Jungle Aqua Park. It’s legendary for a reason, featuring dozens of slides that range from "gentle splash" to "heart-in-mouth." When you book an all-inclusive stay here, the value for money is incredible. You get your flights, transfers, food, drinks, and unlimited access to the parks all rolled into one neat package.

Happy family splashing in a pool at a Hurghada water park resort under a blue sky.

Choosing Your Vibe: The Best Areas to Stay

Hurghada isn't just one big town; it’s a sprawling coastline with several distinct areas, each offering a different "vibe." Choosing the right one is key to making sure your holiday matches your expectations.

El Gouna: The "Venice of the Red Sea"

Located about 30 minutes north of Hurghada airport, El Gouna is a purpose-built, eco-friendly resort town situated on a series of lagoons. It’s chic, upscale, and incredibly pretty. If you like boutique shopping, trendy sundowner bars, and walking along a marina filled with yachts, this is the spot for you. It’s a bit more expensive than central Hurghada, but the atmosphere is much more relaxed and "European."

Sahl Hasheesh: Pure Luxury

If you’re celebrating an anniversary or just want to treat yourself to a 5-star experience, Sahl Hasheesh is where you go. It’s a gated community south of Hurghada known for its long, paved promenade (perfect for sunset walks) and some of the most luxurious hotels in Egypt. The beaches here are pristine, and it feels very exclusive.

Makadi Bay: Beach Lovers’ Heaven

Makadi Bay is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and some of the best house reefs in the area. This means you don’t even need to get on a boat to see incredible fish: you can just walk into the water from your hotel beach! It’s a self-contained resort area, making it very safe and convenient for families who want to stay put and relax.

A man in beachwear and a snorkel holds an oversized 10 Euro banknote, representing affordable European beach holidays and the value you can get with expert travel planning from Sarah Williams at Hays Travel.

Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling and Diving

You can’t go to the Red Sea and not look under the surface. The marine life here is simply spectacular. The water is incredibly clear (visibility often tops 30 meters!), and it stays warm enough to swim in even in the middle of winter.

Giftun Islands and Orange Bay

A boat trip to the Giftun Islands is the most popular excursion in Hurghada, and for good reason. Within the islands, you’ll find Orange Bay and Paradise Beach. These spots are often called the "Egyptian Maldives" because the sand is so white and the water is such a vibrant shade of turquoise.

Most day trips include a couple of snorkeling stops at nearby reefs where you’re almost guaranteed to see clownfish (Nemo!), parrotfish, and maybe even a sea turtle. If you're lucky, pods of wild dolphins often follow the boats, which is a magical experience for children and adults alike.

Snorkeler exploring a vibrant coral reef with tropical fish in the Red Sea near Giftun Islands.

Adventures Beyond the Beach

While it’s tempting to spend seven days straight on a sun lounger, Hurghada offers some brilliant adventures if you’re feeling a bit more active.

Desert Quad Biking

Just inland from the coast is the vast Eastern Desert. One of my favorite things to recommend is a sunset quad bike safari. You’ll zoom across the dunes, visit a traditional Bedouin camp for tea, and watch the sun go down over the mountains. It’s dusty, it’s thrilling, and it’s a fantastic way to see the "other side" of Egypt.

A Day Trip to Luxor

Believe it or not, you can actually visit the Valley of the Kings from Hurghada! It’s a long day: usually starting early in the morning and returning late at night: but seeing the tombs of the Pharaohs and the Karnak Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’ve never been to Egypt before, I highly recommend adding this to your itinerary. It’s like stepping back in time 3,000 years.

Quad biking across golden sand dunes during a desert safari adventure in Hurghada at sunset.

Practical Tips for Your Hurghada Trip

After two decades in the travel industry, I’ve picked up a few "pro tips" to help your trip go smoothly:

Best Time to Visit: If you want scorching heat, go in the summer (June–August). However, for most people, the "sweet spot" is October to March. The weather is a lovely 20-25°C: perfect for escaping the grey UK winter!
Visas: British passport holders need a visa to enter Egypt. You can get these at the airport on arrival (usually around $25 USD/£20), or you can apply for an e-visa online before you fly.
Currency: The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), but British Pounds and Euros are widely accepted in the resorts and for tipping. It’s always handy to have some small EGP notes for tipping local staff.
Stay Hydrated: Only drink bottled water. Even for brushing your teeth, I always recommend using bottled water just to be on the safe side and avoid the dreaded "mummy tummy"!

Why Book with Me?

Planning a trip to Egypt can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming: there are so many hotels and excursions to choose from. That’s where I come in! With over 20 years of experience, I know the resorts that are truly "family-approved" and the ones that offer that extra bit of peace and quiet for couples.

When you book through me at Hays Travel, you’re not just getting a holiday; you’re getting peace of mind. I’m here to handle the "boring bits" like flight seats and transfers, so you can focus on the important stuff: like which swimsuit to pack!

Smiling woman in professional attire seated in a home office filled with travel documents, capturing a friendly and approachable travel adviser ready to assist clients.

Hurghada really is a slice of paradise that's only a five-hour flight away. Whether you want to dive with dolphins, explore ancient history, or just eat your weight in all-inclusive ice cream, I’d love to help you get there.

Ready to start planning your Red Sea escape? Give me a shout, and let’s find your perfect Hurghada resort today!