Best Hotels in Hurghada for Diving — The Complete Red Sea Dive Guide
Hurghada is one of the world's top 20 dive destinations — and choosing the right hotel can make the difference between average and exceptional diving access. This guide covers the best dive hotels and what the Red Sea offers divers at every level.
The Red Sea for Divers — Why Hurghada?
Hurghada's Red Sea offers: year-round warm water (22–29°C), visibility of 15–30m, fringing coral reefs accessible by short boat trip, famous wreck dives (SS Thistlegorm 4 hours north, Sha'ab Abu Nuhas Wrecks 2 hours), shark encounters (white-tip, grey reef, occasional hammerhead), and some of the most accessible reef diving in the world. The dive infrastructure is exceptionally well-developed with dozens of PADI centres.
Best Hotels With On-Site Dive Centres
Gorgonia Beach Resort: the most famous dive-focused hotel in Hurghada. House reef accessible from the beach, dedicated dive centre, strong diving culture. Jasmine Palace: similar dive-focused atmosphere with house reef access. Oberoi Beach Resort: higher-end option with excellent diving facilities and strong service.
Kempinski Soma Bay — For Technical Divers
The Kempinski Soma Bay (30km south of Hurghada) offers arguably the best diving infrastructure in the wider area. Access to less-crowded reef sites, excellent dive centre, and the Soma Bay area's quieter marine environment. Best for experienced divers seeking quality over convenience.
PADI Courses in Hurghada
Hurghada is one of the most popular locations in the world for PADI Open Water certification. Reasons: year-round warm calm water, good visibility, experienced instructors, many nationalities catered for. Open Water course costs approximately £250–£350. Most hotels can organise referrals to reputable PADI centres.
Liveaboard Diving from Hurghada
For dedicated divers, Hurghada's liveaboard scene accesses sites impossible from shore-based hotels: the SS Thistlegorm wreck (WWII British cargo ship, arguably the world's best wreck dive), the Elphinstone shark site, and the deep southern reefs. Liveaboards depart from the main Hurghada marina. 4–7 day trips available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Hurghada hotel is best for diving?+
How good is diving in Hurghada?+
Own Your Own Red Sea Apartment
Stop paying hotel prices. Buy from £15,000 with 0% interest payment plans and earn rental income when not using it.