Hurghada

Hurghada is the largest Egyptian resort on the Red Sea coast. Until the late 20th century, it was nothing more than a fishing village but it has expanded rapidly and today attracts tourists in growing numbers. Hotels have existed in Hurghada since the 1960s but it wasn’t until the 1980s that tourism really started to develop. The resort is split into 3 main areas; the central town (El Dahar) has a north facing coast and a handful of beach hotels.

Shopping and nightlife is accessible on foot. El Sakala is around the corner on the east facing coast where generally the lower category hotels are located. To the south of El Sakala lies a 15 mile strip of hotels situated between the coast road and the beach. They are more or less isolated with little infrastructure around them. Scuba diving and watersports are a major attraction and excursions to Luxor and Cairo are available as day trips.

Getting There

The resort is served by Hurghada International Airport which is only a few minutes away from many of the resorts hotels. The airport has links to many European cities as well as other domestic destinations. A ferry connects the town with Sharm el Sheikh in the Sinai. Hurghada stretches for several miles so in order to get between areas of the town, you need to take a taxi or a cheaper option is one of the mini-buses which drive up and down.

What Hurghada Has To Offer

Hurghada has an excellent reputation as a water sports destination with wind-surfing, sailing, swimming, deep sea fishing, kite boarding, snorkeling and scuba diving all on offer. Coral reefs, spectacular fish and relatively warm water in winter make this a specialist scuba-diving destination. Its frequent North-West wind also makes it a major resort for serious windsurfers; the numerous other water-sports activities available are really add-ons.

Away from the sea, beaches and swimming pools, Hurghada has plenty of offer holiday makers looking to explore this fascinating country and at night Hurghada comes to life with plenty of small bars, cafes and restaurants.