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As well a classic wreck and reef dives of the north Hurghada is a gateway to some of the best sites in the Southern Red Sea. From beginner scuba experiences to deep and cave technical diving exploration, it is a diving destination of variety in underwater topography, marine life and wrecks. The area is also famed for having impressive local reefs, particularly within the protected marine park of Giftun Island.
Most of the dive sites around Hurghada can be reached within 40 minutes from a boat, offering an excellent mix of options for full day and half-day trips. Unlike Egypt's other major dive resort of Sharm el Sheikh, boats leave from private jetties belonging to the many beachside resorts where centres are generally based.
A huge number of divers also depart Hurghada for some of the Red Seas most celebrated sites to the south. The town's new marina has added another level of luxury for liveaboard travellers with a wealth of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars to chill out on the last day of trips - just a short walk from the dive deck.
Mainland town of Hurghada functions also as a residential city as well as a tourist hotspot, so the feel of the place is noticeably different from places such as Sharm el Sheikh.
Eating out: There are a number of restaurants and bars scattered around the town, but the main focus of evening entertainment is at the new cosmopolitan marina. The White Elephant Thai and the Masala Indian restaurants are excellent. Italian, Spanish, Japanese or a hearty meal at the steak restaurant, there's a huge variety of eateries to choose. For fish-lovers, don't miss a trip to Sardina.
Venturing into town, Drifters bistro and steakhouse on Mashribiva Street is a popular spot for locals. Cliffside on Sheraton Road you will find Felfela restaurant, which offers traditional Egyptian food and stunning views. One of the best Italian restaurants in town is Da Nanni next to La Perla Hotel.
Social scene: Papas at the marina is the most popular bar for divers. Hurghada's first bar, Peanuts, in El Dahar in the old town is also a popular hangout for residents and tourists. For pumping tunes and late nights, Ministry of Sound and Hed Kandi at the marina are popular choices.
Desert: with the highest mountains of the Eastern Desert in view, daytrips to see nature in Hurghada topside are a must-do. Explore the Wadis (valleys) and mountains by foot, camel, jeep or quad bike. Most desert trips include a visit to a Bedouin settlement.
Relax: A white sandy beach, surrounded by coral reefs, Mahmeya Beach is a great chill-out day trip by boat. The island has a small beach club, which serves up fabulous lunches.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing: Egypt's windy city is a popular spot for kite and windsurfers, with lots of excellent centres offering lessons and kit hire. It is also possible to join a kitesurfing boat safari.
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 The diving industry in Egypt is regulated by the Chamber of Diving and Watersports. For your safety and quality of service, ensure you book with a CDWS member operator. All CDWS members have passed an ISO audit to meet European standards for recreational diving in order to obtain their operating licence from the Ministry of Tourism.
For a full list of legal dive operators in Egypt click here:
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