Hurghada holidays: Red Sea reefs, desert and winter sun
Coral reefs a few strokes from the beach, sunshine all winter and desert running straight into the sea. Hurghada is one of the easiest ways to find warmth and world-class snorkelling in December.
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The Red Sea
Photo: Veronica Reverse / Unsplash
Hurghada, the Red Sea in winter
Mask on, ten strokes out from the beach, and the reef opens beneath you: parrotfish, clownfish and coral in every shape. The Red Sea is one of the world's great places to snorkel, and from Hurghada you reach the reefs from the shore or by boat.
Hurghada, on Egypt's east coast, has grown from a fishing village into a long ribbon of resorts. For many Europeans it is good-value winter sun only a few hours away. For more of the country, see our Egypt travel guide.
Which area suits you?
El Gouna
A purpose-built resort town north of Hurghada, laid out around lagoons and canals, with a marina, restaurants and a relaxed mood. Best if you want to eat out.
Central Hurghada
The liveliest and cheapest part, with shops and the older El Dahar district. Less polished.
Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay
South of town: big resorts, good house reefs and little but beach and sea. For a week that never leaves the hotel.
Day trips
Giftun Islands: a boat to the marine park, with white beaches and reefs for snorkelling.
Luxor: the temples of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings by road or air. A long day, and worth it.
The desert: an evening by jeep or camel to a Bedouin camp.
When to go
October to April is the season for winter sun. Days are warm, December and January evenings are cool, and the sea is fresh but swimmable. Summer is very hot. Compare with other options in where is hot in December.
Good to know
Most visitors need a visa for Egypt. Check the current rules and how to apply before you travel.
If snorkelling matters, choose a hotel with a house reef. Many have a jetty straight out to the coral.
Taking coral or shells home is illegal.
Read your government's travel advice before you book.
Steigenberger ALDAU Beach Hotel
Photo: Hotels.com
Where to stay
Our Hurghada hotel guide picks the best resorts along the coast.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Steigenberger ALDAU Beach Hotel
Frequently asked questions about Hurghada
Is Hurghada hot in winter?
Yes, the days are warm all winter. Evenings in December and January can be cool, so pack a jumper.
Where is the best place to stay in Hurghada?
El Gouna for restaurants and atmosphere, Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay for resorts with house reefs.
Can you snorkel from the beach in Hurghada?
Yes, at the many hotels with a house reef. Boat trips to the outer reefs leave every day.
How long is the flight to Hurghada?
From the UK, direct flights take around five and a half hours, and less from much of central Europe.