Hurghada
EgyptRed Sea resort hub with easy diving and kitesurfing. Many hotels are self-contained; plan excursions.
🧭 First 48 hours
Clear, quick notes to get set up fast.
📶 SIM & data
Vodafone/Orange/Etisalat counters at HRG; local eSIMs limited for short stays—physical SIM is easiest.
💳 Money
Resorts take cards; cash for kiosks, tips, and excursions.
🚖 Airport transfer
Hotel shuttles or vetted taxi desks at arrivals.
🚇 Get around
Taxi or hotel cars between resorts; prebook excursions.
🏨 Where to stay
Sahl Hasheesh (quieter luxe), El Gouna (upmarket marina), Sheraton Rd./Village Rd. (central).
🛡️ Safety basics
Confirm excursion operators and inclusions; reef-safe sunscreen and hydration are essential.
⭐ Editor’s picks
Easy Red Sea living—boat days, lagoon sunsets, and seafood straight from the grill.
Eat
Star Fish — Sheraton Rd.
Local classic for mixed grills and fresh catch.
El Halaka — Marina/Old Town
Choose your fish; simple, perfect after a boat day.
Marina restaurants — New Marina
Sea breeze and sunset tables—book weekends.
Coffee & Treats
Marina cafés — New Marina
Espresso and gelato between strolls.
Resort bakeries — Various
Unexpectedly great patisserie at larger resorts.
Do & See
Giftun Islands — Offshore
Sandbars and snorkeling—book with reputable boats.
El Gouna Marina — North
Upmarket lagoon town with cafés and evening promenades.
Desert quad at sunset — Inland
Golden dunes and tea at a Bedouin-style camp.
Dive & Snorkel
Intro dive (Discover Scuba) — House reefs
Many centers offer gentle first-timer programs.
Boat day to Abu Ramada/Carless Reef — Reef sites
Clear water and fish clouds—conditions vary.