A Local’s Guide to Hurghada: Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore After Diving
A perfect scuba diving vacation is made of two parts: the incredible adventures you have beneath the waves, and the unforgettable moments you create on dry land. The Red Sea is undoubtedly the star of the show here in Hurghada, but the city itself, with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and diverse landscapes, offers a world of experiences that can transform a great dive trip into the holiday of a lifetime.
At Scubadore Hurghada, we’re not just passionate about diving; we’re passionate about our home. We love sharing the local spots and experiences that we, as residents, cherish. Think of this as your personal guide—our recommendations for where to eat, stay, and explore to get the absolute most out of your time in Hurghada when you’re not blowing bubbles with us.
Beautiful architecture of Hurghada Marina at dusk in Egypt
Where to Eat: A Taste of Hurghada
After a day at sea, there’s nothing better than a fantastic meal. Hurghada’s culinary scene has something for every palate, from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to authentic local delicacies.
For the Freshest Seafood: You are on the coast of the Red Sea, so indulging in fresh seafood is a must. For a truly authentic experience, head to the El Halaka Fish Market, located next to the main marina. Here, you can see the local fishermen bring in their daily catch. Many of the simple, brilliant restaurants surrounding the market, like the famous Star Fish, allow you to pick your own fish from the ice display and have it cooked to perfection—grilled, fried, or baked. It doesn’t get any fresher.
For Authentic Egyptian Flavours: Don’t leave Egypt without trying some of its traditional cuisine. Look for local eateries serving Koshary, a uniquely Egyptian and delicious comfort food made of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce. For a more upscale and atmospheric experience, restaurants like Abou El Sid in the Hurghada Marina offer classic Egyptian dishes in a beautifully decorated setting.
For an Evening at the Marina: The Hurghada Marina Boulevard is the city’s modern, vibrant heart. Lined with beautiful yachts, it’s the perfect place for an evening stroll and dinner. You’ll find a huge variety of international restaurants here, from excellent steakhouses and Italian pizzerias to lively pubs and sophisticated cocktail bars. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the world go by.
Where to Stay: Finding Your Perfect Base
Choosing the right area to stay can shape your entire holiday. Hurghada offers distinct areas, each with its own unique vibe.
The Luxurious Escape: El Gouna or Sahl Hasheesh For those seeking tranquility, five-star luxury, and pristine surroundings, the self-contained resort towns of El Gouna (to the north) and Sahl Hasheesh (to the south) are perfect. These areas are meticulously planned, with beautiful lagoons, world-class golf courses, gourmet restaurants, and a more relaxed, upscale atmosphere. They are ideal for couples or travellers looking for a serene escape while still being close enough for daily dive trips.
The Heart of the Action: Hurghada Marina If you want to be in the center of it all, with restaurants, shops, and nightlife right on your doorstep, staying near the Hurghada Marina is your best bet. A range of hotels in this area gives you immediate access to the city’s most vibrant social hub.
The All-Inclusive Hub: Village Road (El Mamsha) This is the main tourist promenade in Hurghada, lined with a wide array of large, all-inclusive resorts. It’s a popular choice for families and those who want a resort-based holiday with everything conveniently located on-site, including private beaches and pools.
What to Explore: Adventures on Dry Land
On your non-diving days, or for any non-diving partners in your group, Hurghada and its surroundings offer incredible adventures.
Journey into the Desert: The Red Sea is flanked by the majestic Eastern Desert. Experiencing its stark beauty is a must. Book a quad biking or buggy tour to race across the sand dunes, then visit a Bedouin camp to learn about their traditional way of life. The experience is often capped off with a simple dinner under a breathtaking canopy of stars, far from the city lights.
Discover the Two Sides of the City: Experience the contrast between the old and the new Hurghada. Spend an afternoon exploring El Dahar, the old town. Here you’ll find the city’s largest mosque, the Coptic church, and a bustling local souk (market) where you can haggle for spices, souvenirs, and traditional crafts. It’s a vibrant, authentic slice of Egyptian life.
Karnak Temple is dedicated to the temple complex of Ancient Egypt in honor of the god Amun-Ra, his wife Mut and son Khons.
A Trip Through Ancient History: Luxor One of the greatest advantages of Hurghada’s location is its accessibility to the treasures of ancient Egypt. A day trip to Luxor is a long but incredibly rewarding day. You can visit the magnificent Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings (where Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered), and the Temple of Hatshepsut. To stand in the shadow of these ancient monuments is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Just Relax: Remember, you are on holiday! Sometimes the best activity is no activity at all. Spend a day relaxing at a local beach club, treat yourself to a traditional Turkish hammam and massage at a local spa, or simply enjoy a shisha (water pipe) at a seaside café.
Your trip to Hurghada is a chance to create a rich tapestry of memories, both above and below the water. When you dive with us, you’re not just our customer; you’re our guest in our city. We hope you fall in love with all of it, just as we have.
