One of the Best Beach Destinations Right Now Is in Egypt, According to Tripadvisor

While it may be well known by avid diving enthusiasts and those who live in the region, Hurghada is a hidden gem that not many Americans are familiar with, yet it managed to land on the list of the world’s top destinations in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. 

Located in Egypt along the Red Sea Coast, Hurghada is primarily popular with Egyptian and European tourists. But for travelers in the Americas seeking to go in a different direction while enjoying a unique and budget-friendly sun-soaked coastal destination, it may be ideal. 

The Hurghada area, including the city itself and the surrounding resort towns of El Gouna, Sah Hasheesh, Makadi Bay, and Soma Bay, is tucked between the desert, the mountains, and the sea. Despite its name, the sea isn’t actually red, but rather an intense aquamarine. The stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear water boasting unrivaled clarity with visibility often reaching over 65 feet, make it a premier destination for viewing diverse marine life, but even non-snorkelers and divers will find plenty here. 

Hurghada is the most central and iconic stretch along what’s referred to as Egypt’s “Red Sea Riviera.” The sea here is highly acclaimed as one of the best, most crystal-clear destinations on the planet for exploring the underwater world. The remarkable visibility is due to minimal sediment, the lack of major rivers flowing into it, and the calmness of the water. It draws diving enthusiasts from across the globe, but whether you dive or snorkel, it’s likely to be an experience of a lifetime. 

The marine life is exceptionally diverse, with some 2,100 different fish species and over 300 coral species. Highlights include clownfish, Napoleon wrasse, parrotfish, angel fish, giant moray eels, octopus, blue-spotted rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, the elusive dugong, and both bottlenose and spinner dolphins. Boat excursions are available from Hurghada that will take you out to islands like Giftun and Orange Bay, renowned for their spectacular beaches and underwater treasures.

In between all of your activities, you’ll find beautiful beaches to relax on. All are made up of soft, light-colored sands ranging from chalk-white to pale golden, creating a stunning contrast with the aquamarine hue of the sea. Many of the resorts have their own, well-maintained private beaches, and often include waterparks too. The activity options beyond snorkeling and diving are practically endless, in or on the water, or on land. A few of the options include windsurfing, kitesurfing, parasailing, fishing, horseback riding, ATV tours, and dirt biking. 

Egypt, including Hurghada, has just two seasons: summer and winter. From May through September, temperatures often climb well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the low season, with few international visitors arriving, as sightseeing can be a miserable experience, although serious divers will still be arriving. By late September, the weather starts to improve. Anytime between October and April is generally pleasant, but the very best period is winter, when daytime highs average in the 70s and the water temperature is pleasantly warm, around 72-73 degrees.