Hurghada Weather in December is mild, sunny and very different from the intense summer heat. December is one of Hurghada’s coolest months, but for many European visitors it still feels like pleasant winter sun rather than cold weather.
For planning, long-term climate datasets place typical daytime highs around 22°C, nights around 15–18°C, and Red Sea temperatures around 24–25°C. Rain remains extremely rare. These are climate averages, not a day-by-day forecast, so actual conditions can vary.
Hurghada Weather in December: quick answer
- Daytime: usually around 21–23°C.
- Night: commonly around 15–18°C.
- Sea temperature: around 24–25°C.
- Rain: very rare.
- Sun: still strong enough for beach days, but the day is shorter.
- Best for: Luxor, Cairo, safari, diving, snorkeling and winter sun.
- Pack: summer clothes for warm afternoons plus a light jacket or hoodie for evenings, boats and early pickups.
Best Hurghada tours in December – direct booking
December is especially good for combining comfortable sightseeing with Red Sea activities. These are direct links to the actual tours:
Related Hurghada guides
1. Hurghada Weather in December: how warm is it?
Hurghada Weather in December is mild by local standards and often pleasantly warm for visitors escaping colder European weather. Typical daytime highs are around 21–23°C, although sunny afternoons can feel warmer when you are sheltered from wind.
Nights are cooler, usually around 15–18°C. A light jacket or hoodie becomes more useful in December than in October or November, especially after sunset, near the marina and during early-morning transfers.
2. Hurghada Weather in December: is the sea warm enough to swim?
For many visitors, yes. The Red Sea around Hurghada is usually around 24–25°C in December. Most adults can still swim comfortably, although people who dislike cooler water may prefer the middle of the day when the sun is strongest.
The sea is cooler than November, but it does not suddenly become cold. Early December is normally a little warmer than the end of the month.
3. Hurghada Weather in December: do you need a wetsuit?
It depends on the activity and your personal cold tolerance. Many casual swimmers and short-session snorkelers do not need a wetsuit. Divers are more likely to use one because they remain underwater longer and body heat is lost faster at depth.
If you get cold easily, a thin wetsuit or shorty can make long snorkeling sessions more comfortable. Always follow the equipment advice of your dive or snorkeling operator.
4. Does it rain in Hurghada in December?
Rain remains extremely rare. Long-term climate sources show only tiny monthly rainfall totals. December is part of the cool season, but Hurghada still has a dry desert climate.
For the short-term forecast before your trip, use an official source such as the World Meteorological Organization World Weather Information Service.
5. Hurghada Weather in December: is it windy?
Wind is one of the most important December questions. A sunny 22°C day can feel warm at a hotel pool but much cooler on a moving boat, especially after swimming.
Bring a dry T-shirt, hoodie or light windproof layer for boat trips. Children, older travelers and guests who feel the cold easily benefit most from having something warm ready after leaving the water.
6. What should you wear in Hurghada in December?
During sunny afternoons, many visitors are comfortable in T-shirts, light trousers, shorts or summer dresses. Swimwear is still normal around hotel pools and beaches.
For evenings, Hurghada Weather in December often requires an extra layer. Pack a light jacket, hoodie, cardigan or overshirt. Heavy winter coats are usually unnecessary unless you personally feel cold very easily.
For Cairo and Luxor, wear comfortable layers so you can remove clothing in the warmer middle of the day and add it again early in the morning or after sunset. See our What to Wear in Hurghada guide.
7. Hurghada Weather in December: does it get cold at night?
Compared with summer, yes. Compared with European winter, usually not. Nights around 15–18°C can feel cool once the sun disappears, particularly with wind.
If you are sitting outdoors for dinner or walking around the Marina late at night, a hoodie or light jacket is useful. Early-morning Cairo and Luxor pickups can also feel cool before sunrise.
8. Hurghada Weather in December for Orange Bay and Dolphin House
Orange Bay and Dolphin House remain possible in December, but comfort depends more on wind than in warmer months. The sea is still suitable for swimming for many guests, while the air feels cooler once you leave the water.
For Orange Bay, bring a dry layer for the boat. For Dolphin House, remember that dolphin sightings are never guaranteed because they are wild animals.
9. Is December good for diving in Hurghada?
Yes. December is a popular diving month because underwater visibility can be excellent and the Red Sea remains relatively warm. Divers normally wear suitable exposure protection because longer dives feel cooler than short surface swims.
Beginners can start with our Diving for Beginners in Hurghada guide or book the direct Discover Scuba Diving trip.
10. Hurghada Weather in December for a desert safari
December is one of the easiest months for daytime desert activities. Quad biking and longer safari programs are much more comfortable without summer heat.
The trade-off is sunset temperature. Once the sun goes down, the desert cools quickly. Wear closed shoes and take a hoodie or light jacket, particularly for Super Safari programs that continue into the evening.
11. Hurghada Weather in December for Luxor
December is one of the most comfortable months for a Luxor day trip from Hurghada. Temple courtyards and the Valley of the Kings are easier to explore without peak-summer heat.
Early departures can feel cool, while Luxor itself may become pleasantly warm around midday. Use layers, comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
12. Hurghada Weather in December for Cairo and the Pyramids
December is also excellent for Cairo. Giza and central Cairo are far easier for long sightseeing days than during summer, although early mornings and evenings can be cool.
On bus and mini-bus tours, air-conditioning can make the journey feel colder than the outdoor daytime weather. Keep a light jacket in your day bag.
13. Early December vs late December in Hurghada
Early December is usually a little warmer than the final week of the month. Climate data show a gradual cooling trend through December, including the sea.
Hurghada Weather in December remains suitable for winter-sun holidays throughout the month, but guests who prioritize swimming may prefer the first half. Guests who prioritize Cairo, Luxor and safari often enjoy the cooler second half.
14. Hurghada Weather in December at Christmas
Christmas in Hurghada usually means sunny daytime weather, cooler evenings and busy resort areas. Hotels often organize festive dinners and entertainment, but the weather itself remains dry and mild.
Do not pack for a European Christmas climate. You are much more likely to need sunscreen and swimwear during the day than a heavy coat. Keep a light jacket for dinner outside or evening walks.
15. What is Hurghada weather like for New Year?
Late December and New Year’s Eve are among the coolest parts of the month, especially after sunset. Daytime sightseeing remains comfortable, while outdoor evening events may feel cool if there is wind.
For New Year’s Eve, take one warmer layer than you would for a midday beach visit. Resorts may have outdoor entertainment, so comfort after dark matters more than the daytime forecast.
16. Does it get dark early in Hurghada in December?
Yes. December has some of the shortest days of the year. Sunset comes much earlier than in summer, so beach time, photography and desert sunset programs should be planned around the actual pickup time.
This is especially important for safari trips: a program starting in the afternoon can move from warm sunshine to cool desert air quite quickly.
17. Hurghada Weather in December for children and families
December can be a very comfortable family month because children are not dealing with extreme summer heat. Pools, boat trips, city walks and cultural excursions are easier for many families.
The main question is swimming comfort. Some children are happy in 24–25°C sea water, while others get cold quickly. Keep a large towel, dry clothes and a hoodie ready after swimming.
18. What to pack for Hurghada in December
- T-shirts and light daytime clothing.
- Shorts plus breathable trousers.
- Swimwear.
- High-SPF sunscreen.
- Hat or cap.
- Sunglasses.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sandals or beach shoes.
- Light jacket, hoodie or cardigan.
- Dry top for boat trips.
- One slightly warmer layer for late evenings or desert trips.
- Phone power bank for Cairo and Luxor days.
- Personal medication.
Hurghada Weather in December rewards layered packing: light clothes in the sun and one or two warmer layers for wind, early mornings and evenings.
19. Is December one of the best months to visit Hurghada?
For sightseeing, diving, safari and winter sun, December is excellent. It is not the warmest month for beach holidays, so visitors who want very hot weather and the warmest possible sea may prefer autumn.
For practical travel information, Egypt’s official tourism portal is available at Experience Egypt.
Hurghada Weather in December FAQs
What is the temperature in Hurghada in December?
Typical daytime highs are around 21–23°C, with nights commonly around 15–18°C.
Is Hurghada hot in December?
It is usually mild to warm in the sun rather than hot. Midday can feel very pleasant, while mornings and evenings are cooler.
Can you swim in Hurghada in December?
Yes. The Red Sea is normally around 24–25°C, which many visitors find comfortable for swimming.
Is the sea cold in Hurghada in December?
It is cooler than October and November, but still relatively warm. Personal cold tolerance matters, especially on windy days.
Do I need a wetsuit in Hurghada in December?
Not always for casual swimming or short snorkeling sessions. Divers and guests who get cold easily may prefer one.
Do I need a jacket in Hurghada in December?
Yes, a light jacket or hoodie is useful for evenings, boats, early pickups and the desert. A heavy winter coat is usually unnecessary.
Does Hurghada get cold at night in December?
Nights around 15–18°C can feel cool, particularly with wind or after a warm sunny day.
Does it rain in Hurghada in December?
Rain is very rare. Hurghada remains extremely dry even in its coolest season.
Is Hurghada windy in December?
It can be breezy, especially on the sea. Wind often affects how cold a boat trip feels more than the actual air temperature.
Is December good for snorkeling in Hurghada?
Yes. Snorkeling remains possible, especially on sunny calm days. Bring dry clothes for after the water.
Is December good for diving in Hurghada?
Yes. December is a strong diving month, with comfortable air temperatures and Red Sea water around the mid-20s Celsius.
Is December good for Orange Bay?
Yes, but calm sunny days are more comfortable than windy days. Take a light layer for the return boat trip.
Is December good for Dolphin House?
Yes for snorkeling conditions on suitable weather days. Dolphin sightings are never guaranteed.
Is December good for a desert safari?
Yes. Daytime safari conditions are comfortable, but the desert becomes cooler quickly around sunset.
Is December good for Luxor from Hurghada?
Yes. December is one of the most comfortable months for temples, tombs and long outdoor sightseeing.
Is December good for Cairo from Hurghada?
Yes. Cooler conditions make Giza and Cairo much easier for a full sightseeing day than peak summer.
Is early December warmer than late December?
Usually yes. Both air and sea temperatures gradually cool through the month.
What is Hurghada like at Christmas?
Usually sunny and mild during the day with cooler evenings. Resorts can be busy and often run festive programs.
What should I wear on New Year’s Eve in Hurghada?
Wear normal smart-casual clothing with a light or medium layer for outdoor evening events, especially if there is wind.
Is December good for children in Hurghada?
Yes. Families often enjoy the milder daytime heat, but keep children warm and dry after swimming.
Does it get dark early in December?
Yes. December has shorter daylight, so sunset comes much earlier than in summer.
What is the biggest December weather mistake?
Packing only beachwear. You still need sunscreen and swimwear, but also a hoodie or light jacket for evenings, boats and early departures.
Final December planning checklist
- Expect mild sunny days around 21–23°C.
- Plan for cooler 15–18°C nights.
- Expect Red Sea temperatures around 24–25°C.
- Bring a light jacket or hoodie.
- Keep a dry layer for boat trips.
- Use December for comfortable Luxor, Cairo and safari days.
- Plan around shorter daylight and earlier sunset.
- Check the short-term forecast before your travel date.
Hurghada Weather in December is ideal for visitors who want winter sun, comfortable sightseeing and Red Sea activities without the intense heat of summer.