Hurghada at Christmas & New Year: Weather, Swimming & Things to Do

Hurghada is one of Egypt’s most popular places to finish a Christmas or New Year itinerary. After several days of sightseeing in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, the Red Sea offers a change of pace with resort time, beach days and optional snorkeling or diving.

This guide explains what to expect from Hurghada in late December, including weather, swimming conditions, resort celebrations, what to pack and how to combine the Red Sea with a Nile cruise.

Is Hurghada Good at Christmas?

Yes. Hurghada remains a popular winter-sun destination during the festive period. Daytime conditions can be comfortable for outdoor activities, although evenings and windy days may feel cooler than travelers expect from a Red Sea holiday.

Can You Swim in Hurghada in December?

Many visitors do swim in December, but comfort levels vary. The Red Sea remains attractive for snorkeling and diving, while air temperature and wind can affect how warm it feels before and after entering the water.

Travelers who prioritize swimming should also check whether their chosen resort has a heated pool.

What Is Hurghada Weather Like at Christmas?

Expect generally sunny winter conditions with cooler evenings than summer. A light jacket or sweater is useful after sunset, particularly around open-air resort areas or marina restaurants.

Does Hurghada Celebrate Christmas?

Many international resorts decorate for Christmas and may offer seasonal dinners or entertainment. Programs vary significantly between hotels, so travelers should confirm whether a Christmas Eve dinner is included, optional or mandatory.

New Year in Hurghada

New Year is one of the busiest festive dates in Red Sea resorts. Hotels may organize gala dinners, music or entertainment, and some properties apply mandatory supplements.

Specific entertainment, fireworks or gala details should always be confirmed with the selected hotel rather than assumed.

Best Things to Do in Hurghada at Christmas

• Relax at a Red Sea resort
• Take a snorkeling boat trip
• Go diving
• Visit nearby islands and reefs
• Take a desert excursion
• Spend a free day after a Nile cruise

Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh for Christmas?

Both destinations can work well. Hurghada is particularly convenient when the itinerary comes from Luxor or Aswan, while Sharm El Sheikh is often selected for its resort atmosphere and reef access.

For a detailed comparison, read our Sharm El Sheikh vs Hurghada guide.

Can You Combine Hurghada with a Nile Cruise?

Yes. This is one of the most practical ways to build a 10-day Egypt holiday. Travelers can visit Cairo first, fly to Luxor, cruise to Aswan and then transfer to Hurghada for a beach finish.

Our 10-Day Egypt Christmas & New Year Tour follows this structure.

What to Pack for Hurghada in December

• Swimwear
• Light daytime clothing
• Light jacket or sweater for evenings
• Sun protection
• Reef-safe water shoes if useful for your resort
• Smart-casual clothes for festive dinners

See our Egypt Packing List for the complete country checklist.

Is Hurghada Suitable for Families at Christmas?

Yes. Resort stays can give children downtime after several sightseeing days. Families should compare heated pools, beach access, room types and children’s facilities rather than choosing only by hotel star rating.

How Many Nights Do You Need in Hurghada?

Two nights can provide a short relaxing finish, while three or four nights work better if you want a full snorkeling or boat day plus downtime. The right duration depends on how long the cultural part of your Egypt trip is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hurghada warm enough for Christmas?

For many visitors, daytime conditions are pleasant, but winter evenings can be cool and wind can make some days feel fresher.

Is snorkeling available in December?

Yes, weather permitting. Boat trips and snorkeling commonly operate during winter, although sea conditions can affect individual departures.

Are Christmas dinners included at resorts?

Not automatically. Some properties include them, some charge mandatory supplements and others offer optional events.

Can I visit Luxor from Hurghada?

Yes. For travelers staying only in Hurghada, Luxor can be visited by road. See our Luxor Day Trip from Hurghada guide.

If you are still choosing between Red Sea resorts, compare our Sharm El Sheikh Christmas guide. For the complete route, see our 8, 10 and 12 day Christmas itinerary comparison.

Plan a Christmas Holiday in Hurghada

Hurghada works best as part of a wider Egypt itinerary when you want to finish the trip with several slower days by the Red Sea.

Read our Christmas in Egypt guide or request a customized Christmas itinerary with Hurghada.