Hurghada, a jewel along the Red Sea coastline, is brimming with sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exciting underwater adventures. But there’s another key highlight waiting to be discovered by travelers and culture enthusiasts alike — the timeless tradition of enjoying shisha. Also known as “hookah,” this cherished social custom is deeply rooted in Egyptian hospitality, and Hurghada boasts no shortage of picturesque spots to experience it.
Whether you're seeking a relaxed beachfront atmosphere, breathtaking sea views, or a culturally immersive setting under the desert stars, this guide will take you through the best shisha lounges in Hurghada. Along the way, we’ll offer tips to enhance your experience and highlight the unique flavors and vibes that await.
Why Try a Shisha Lounge in Hurghada?
1. A Slice of Egyptian Culture
Enjoying shisha is one of the most authentic ways to immerse yourself in Egyptian traditions. Locals often gather at shisha lounges or cafes, engaging in lively conversation while sharing the care and attention that comes with this time-honored practice.
2. Ambiance and Atmosphere
Hurghada’s shisha lounges often feature serene seaside views, fresh Red Sea breezes, and warm lighting to create the perfect mood. Many spots even host live music or traditional entertainment, elevating the experience.
3. Endless Flavors
From classic apple and mint to creative blends like watermelon-mint and tropical mixes, shisha lounges in Hurghada cater to all flavor preferences. It’s a great opportunity to try something new or stick to a comforting favorite.
Top Shisha Lounges in Hurghada
1. Red Sky Bar & Shisha Corner – White Beach Resort
- Vibe: Upscale seaside terrace
- Highlight: Spectacular sunset views, diverse cocktail menu, and a wide variety of premium shisha flavors
- Perfect For: Those looking for a luxurious setting with modern comforts
Located at the White Beach Resort, this elegant shisha lounge blends top-tier service with an unbeatable waterfront ambiance. Whether you’re a guest at the resort or just dropping by, Red Sky offers a stylish escape where you can sip cocktails and enjoy panoramic views while savoring expertly prepared shisha.
2. Paradise Island Shisha Corner
- Vibe: Relaxed, beachside bliss
- Highlight: Lounge beds, refreshing sea breezes, and barefoot comfort
- Perfect For: Day-trippers and island excursionists
Located on the pristine Paradise Island, this shisha corner combines an idyllic setting with the soothing sound of waves. It’s a must-visit for anyone enjoying a boat trip or beach day.
3. Shisha Music Lounge – Hurghada Downtown
- Vibe: Cozy indoor space with a vibrant atmosphere
- Highlight: Nightly live entertainment, dim lighting, and plenty of seating options
- Perfect For: Travelers looking for a more urban and lively experience
Head to Hurghada’s downtown district to unwind in this popular shisha lounge. The mix of Arabic music, velvet cushions, and delicious food options set the stage for an upbeat evening with locals and fellow travelers.
4. Granada Restaurant & Shisha Lounge
- Location: Marina Boulevard
- Vibe: Romantic seaside setting with traditional Egyptian décor
- Highlight: Combines excellent seafood dining with the perfect post-dinner shisha experience
- Perfect For: Couples seeking a cozy, upscale vibe
Located at Marina Boulevard, this charming spot blends exceptional seafood dining with a serene seaside ambiance. Whether you're celebrating a special evening or simply enjoying a night out, it’s the perfect place to unwind with expertly prepared shisha in a romantic, upscale setting.
Best Times to Visit a Shisha Lounge in Hurghada
Golden Hour (5–7 PM): Experience the magic of breathtaking sunsets over the Red Sea while relaxing with a refreshing minty puff. This is the perfect time to unwind and soak in the stunning views as the day transitions into night.
Evenings (8 PM onward): Dive into an atmosphere of mood lighting, soothing live music, and a vibrant yet laid-back crowd. Whether you're catching up with friends or soaking in the ambiance, evenings at the lounge offer the ideal blend of energy and relaxation.
Late Nights: After a lively beach party or a hearty dinner, shisha lounges are the ultimate spot to wind down. Enjoy the calm vibes, flavorful shisha, and connect with friends as the night stretches on.
What to Expect at a Shisha Lounge
The ambiance of a shisha lounge in Hurghada is one of its biggest draws. Expect understated elegance and Middle Eastern décor, with cozy seating options like velvet cushions or lounge beds. Many lounges feature live Middle Eastern music or trendy playlists, adding to the sensory experience. And, of course, these spots are perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments — so keep your camera ready!
Top Shisha Flavors to Try in Egypt
- Double Apple (Tuffah): A must-try classic and traditional favorite that has been enjoyed for generations. Its rich, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor is iconic in shisha culture.
- Mint & Grape: This fresh and sweet combination offers a perfect balance of cool and juicy flavors, making it a popular choice for a relaxing session.
- Watermelon with Mint: A refreshingly fruity mix that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the cooling effect of mint, creating a perfect summer flavor.
- Blue Mist / Tropical Blends: Ideal for those looking for a modern twist, these blends offer unique, exotic flavors that bring a contemporary vibe to your shisha experience.
- Custom Mixes: Want something truly special? Ask the shisha master to craft a unique blend tailored to your taste preferences for a one-of-a-kind session.
Whether you're new to shisha or a seasoned enthusiast, these flavors promise to elevate your experience in Egypt!
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Ask for Ice in the Base: Adding ice to the base makes the shisha smoother, cooler, and more enjoyable. It’s a simple request that can elevate your experience, especially if you’re new to shisha.
- Share Respectfully: In Egyptian culture, shisha is often a social activity meant to be shared. Handle the hose gently when passing it to others and always use disposable mouthpieces for hygiene. This small gesture shows respect for the tradition and those around you.
- Don’t Overdo It: Shisha is designed for leisurely enjoyment. Take slow, relaxed puffs rather than deep inhaling. It’s about savoring the flavors and the experience, not rushing through it.
- Charcoal Etiquette: Be patient and wait a few minutes for the charcoal to burn evenly before taking your first puff. This ensures a smooth, consistent smoke and avoids a harsh, uneven start.
Enhance Your Shisha Experience
To elevate your trip, pair your shisha outing with other Hurghada activities. Visit Paradise Island for a day of adventure, stay at a luxury resort with its own lounge, or book a desert safari that ends with an authentic Bedouin tea and shisha moment.
From breathtaking sunsets by the Red Sea to magical starlit nights in the vast desert, Hurghada’s shisha lounges provide a truly unforgettable experience. These cozy spots blend relaxation, rich culture, and tantalizing flavors, offering the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned shisha enthusiast savoring the intricate aromas or a curious first-timer eager to explore this cultural tradition, there’s something here to delight everyone. Sit back, take in the views, and enjoy the perfect mix of serenity and flavor.
FAQs – Shisha in Hurghada
Can tourists enjoy shisha in public places in Hurghada?
Yes, tourists can enjoy shisha in most lounges, resorts, beach clubs, and even some public cafés. However, indoor smoking may be limited in air-conditioned spaces.
Is there a minimum age to smoke shisha in Egypt?
Yes — the legal smoking age in Egypt is 18 years. Most reputable venues will adhere to this rule.
Do I need to be staying at a resort to visit its shisha lounge?
Not always. Some resort lounges (like Red Sky Bar) allow outside guests, but it’s best to call ahead or make a reservation.
How much does shisha typically cost in Hurghada?
Prices range from 100–300 EGP (~$3–10), depending on the venue and flavor. Premium lounges and cocktails will raise the price.
Can I find alcohol at these lounges too?
Many lounges also serve alcohol, especially those within resorts or nightclubs. But some traditional shisha cafés may be alcohol-free.
Are there any non-smoking areas or lounges with herbal shisha?
Yes, some lounges offer herbal or nicotine-free shisha, and resorts typically have smoking and non-smoking zones.
What’s the etiquette if I’m sharing a shisha pipe?
It’s polite to use the disposable mouthpiece provided, and don’t blow smoke in others’ direction. Always pass the hose gently, mouthpiece first.