Forget the massive all-inclusive resorts that feel like a time travel to the 90s. Hurghada is best served with saltwater, a private speed boat, and a sunset cocktail in a clean marina. Here is how you do the Red Sea right in 48 hours.
| Quick Logistics | Info |
| Currency | Egyptian Pound (EGP) |
| ATM Tip | Use CIB or Banque Misr (Avoid small shop ATMs) |
| Transport App | Uber or Careem (Essential) |
Quick Vibe Check
- Transport: Stick to apps. Street taxis will try to haggle every single time.
- Vibe: Salty, sunny, and surprisingly upscale—if you know which gates to enter.
- Coffee: Don’t expect much in downtown. For real specialty brew, wait for El Gouna.
Day 01: Marina Vibes & Chilled Beaches
- Morning: Start at the Hurghada Marina. It’s clean, aesthetic, and perfect for a morning walk among the yachts. Grab a cold drink and just watch the boats head out.
- Afternoon: Avoid public beaches. Book a day pass at a private club like Elements Beach Club or Dream Beach. This is where the blue water actually looks like the photos.
- Night: Dinner back at the Marina. Fresh seafood with the evening breeze.
Day 02: Island Hops & The El Gouna Escape
- Morning: Boat day is mandatory. Rent a private speed boat to Orange Bay. It’s a sandbar in the middle of the ocean with Maldivian energy. Go early to beat the massive tour groups.
- Afternoon: Take a 20-minute Uber north to El Gouna. This gated town is built on lagoons and is much more “aesthetic” than downtown Hurghada.
- Sunset: Explore Abu Tig Marina. This is the hub for digital nomads and kite-surfers. Grab a drink at a lagoon-side bar and enjoy the golden hour.
Final Verdict Hurghada is about the sea. If you aren’t on a boat or at a private beach club, you’re doing it wrong. Stay salty, stay chill.