Hurghada’s biggest attraction isn’t on land. Just off the coast, a scattering of islands and reefs rises from clear turquoise water, with white sand, coral gardens, and shoals of bright fish. For many visitors, a boat day to the islands is the highlight of the holiday. This guide covers the best islands near Hurghada, what makes each one different, and how to visit them safely and responsibly.

Island names and tour stops vary by operator, and access and fee rules change. Treat this as a planning guide and confirm the details when you book.

A Quick Overview
Island or area Best for Typical visit
Giftun Islands (Giftun Kebir and Giftun Sughayer) Snorkeling, beaches, first-timers Full-day boat trip
Mahmya Calm beach time and relaxed days Included in many Giftun trips
Orange Bay Sandy bay and swimming Often a separate day trip
Paradise Island Reef snorkeling from the shore Common Giftun stop
Abu Minqar Quieter snorkeling Longer boat trip
Umm Gamar Snorkeling and diving Dive and snorkel boats
Shadwan Remote diving and wild scenery Longer trips, often for divers
1. The Giftun Islands: Hurghada’s Island Icon
What and Where

The Giftun Islands are the main island destination from Hurghada. They lie about 45 minutes by boat from the coast and sit within a marine reserve that protects the coral and marine life. The group has two islands: the larger Giftun Kebir (“Big” Giftun) and the smaller Giftun Sughayer (“Little” Giftun), with most tours visiting the larger one.
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What You’ll Find
White-sand beaches and shallow turquoise lagoons.
Coral reefs close to shore, ideal for snorkelers of all levels.
Colorful reef fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish, with turtles, rays, and other larger animals sometimes spotted. Dolphins are commonly sighted in the area, but sightings depend on wildlife and can’t be guaranteed.
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Simple beach facilities on some stops, including shade and refreshments.
How a Typical Trip Works
Most visitors join an organized day trip. Day trips typically last six to eight hours, including travel time, with daily departures from Hurghada Marina.
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Hotel pickup is common, and the trip usually includes two or three snorkeling stops, lunch on board, and beach time.
Private boat charters are also available if you want a quieter experience.
Rules and Fees
Protected area: The islands are a national park. Overnight tourism stays are not permitted.
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Visitor limits: Reports say daily visitor numbers are capped to protect the coral.
Park fee: Some sources say the park fee is charged separately, while others say many operators include it in the tour price. Operators set their own prices, so ask whether the park fee is included before you pay.
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Anchoring and mooring: Rules can vary by zone, and a good operator will brief you on where you can swim, where boats must use moorings, and which areas are off-limits.
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Tip: Early morning departures usually mean calmer water, softer light, and fewer crowds.

2. Mahmya: Beach Time in a Protected Setting

Mahmya is a favorite stop on Giftun trips, known for its soft sand and calm, shallow water. Some sources describe it as operating under strict environmental rules, with visitor caps and limited facilities designed to reduce impact. It suits families, non-swimmers, and anyone who wants a relaxed beach day alongside some snorkeling.

Best for: families, relaxed beach time, easy swimming.
Tip: Bring shade, such as a hat or a light umbrella, and check what facilities and food are available on the day.

3. Orange Bay: A Sandy Bay Escape

Orange Bay is a well-known beach stop on Giftun, popular for its sandy shoreline and calm swimming. It’s often sold as its own day trip, so many tours highlight Orange Bay as the main attraction. Some packages include the entrance fee, a boat trip with a crew, and snorkeling, with a total duration of about eight hours.
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Best for: swimming, sunbathing, and easygoing days with a lunch stop.
Tip: Ask your operator how much time you’ll actually spend on the beach versus on the boat, because this varies between packages.

4. Paradise Island: Reef Right Off the Beach

Paradise Island isn’t a separate island. The area popularly known as Paradise Island is part of Giftun Kebir, on its southern coast. It’s known for beaches and for reef snorkeling close to the shore, which makes it a good stop for people who want to see fish without swimming far from the boat.
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Best for: snorkelers who like to start from the sand.
Tip: Wear water shoes for rocky or coral-edged entry points, and stay off the reef when you swim.

5. Abu Minqar: A Quieter Snorkeling Escape

Abu Minqar is a small island and reef area further offshore, known for clear water and good snorkeling. Because it’s farther from the main Giftun stops, it can feel calmer, though it still appears on boat itineraries and can get busy at peak times. Trips there are often longer, and conditions depend on wind and sea state.

Best for: snorkelers wanting something less crowded than Giftun.
Tip: Ask your operator how many boats usually visit and how large the groups are.

6. Umm Gamar: A Popular Dive and Snorkel Island

Umm Gamar is a small island near Hurghada that features on many dive and snorkel itineraries. It’s known for its coral and fish life, and operators sometimes use it as a stop on longer boat days. Because conditions and stops change, confirm what’s included before you book.

Best for: snorkelers and divers who want variety on a boat day.

7. Shadwan: Remote Island Scenery

To the north, in the Strait of Gubal, Shadwan is a large, wild-feeling island that is usually visited by dive boats and longer excursions rather than casual beach trips. It’s known for dramatic reefs and rugged scenery, and it’s one of the more remote island destinations from Hurghada. Access can be limited and conditions can change, so book with an experienced operator and confirm current rules.

Best for: certified divers and adventurous travelers on longer trips.

What You Might See Underwater

The Red Sea is famous for its marine life. On a good snorkeling or diving day, you might spot:

Coral gardens with hard and soft corals in many colors.
Reef fish such as clownfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and surgeonfish.
Larger visitors such as sea turtles, rays, and moray eels.
Dolphins, if you’re lucky, though sightings are never guaranteed.

Marine animals are wild, so keep your distance, never touch them, and never chase them for a photo.

Best Time to Go
Spring and autumn: Warm water and air, good visibility, and generally comfortable conditions.
Winter: Mild days, but the sea can feel cool for long swims, so consider a wetsuit or rash vest.
Summer: Very hot, but the water is warm. Early morning trips are more comfortable, and sun protection is essential.
Wind: Strong winds can make trips rougher and sometimes lead to cancellations, so keep a spare day in your schedule.
Choosing the Right Island Trip

Ask yourself what matters most:

First-timers and families: A standard Giftun day trip with calm snorkeling stops, lunch, and beach time.
Beach lovers: An Orange Bay or Mahmya-focused trip with longer beach time.
Snorkelers who want fewer crowds: A smaller boat or a trip to a quieter island such as Abu Minqar.
Divers: A dive-focused day with a licensed center, to islands or reefs that match your experience level.
Private groups: A private charter for flexibility.
Questions to Ask Before You Book
How many people are on the boat, and how many are in each snorkeling group?
Is the national park fee included?
How long will we spend at each stop?
Are life jackets, snorkeling equipment, and guides provided?
Is lunch included, and does it cater to dietary needs?
What is the cancellation policy if the weather is bad?
Does the operator follow reef and mooring rules?
What to Bring
Swimwear, rash vest, and a quick-dry towel
Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Snorkeling gear if you prefer your own
Water shoes for rocky or coral-edged entry points
A waterproof phone pouch
A light layer for the boat, since wind can feel cool
Cash for tips and small purchases
Your own drinking water and any medication
Safety Tips
Choose licensed operators with safety equipment and clear briefings.
Use a life vest if you’re not a strong swimmer, and stay close to the boat or guide.
Watch the sun. Reapply sunscreen and drink water throughout the day.
Know your limits. Currents and waves can change quickly, so listen to your guide.
Don’t dive beyond your training, and follow your dive center’s advice, including on flying after diving.
Check your insurance covers snorkeling, diving, and boat trips.
Follow local advice. Weather and sea conditions can change, so respect cancellations and route changes.
Responsible Travel: Protecting the Reef

The reefs around Hurghada are living ecosystems, and they’re fragile.

Never stand on or touch coral. Even a light touch can damage it.
Keep your fins well clear of the reef, and practice good buoyancy.
Don’t feed fish or chase turtles, dolphins, or other animals.
Take all trash with you, including small items.
Use reef-safe sunscreen, or cover up with a rash vest.
Don’t collect shells, coral, or sea life, and avoid buying souvenirs made from them.
Choose operators who respect visitor limits, moorings, and protected-area rules.
Sample Island Plans

Easy first-timer day: Morning pickup, boat to Giftun, two snorkeling stops, lunch on board, beach time at Mahmya or Paradise, and return by late afternoon.

Beach and relaxation day: An Orange Bay-focused trip with a long beach stop, swimming, and a light snorkel.

Quiet snorkel day: A smaller boat to Abu Minqar or another less crowded site, with fewer people and a calmer feel.

Diver’s day: A licensed dive center with two boat dives at reefs or islands that match your certification.

Final Thoughts

The islands near Hurghada show the Red Sea at its best, with clear water, coral gardens, and sandy beaches only a short boat ride from the shore. Pick the trip that suits your pace, check the rules, choose responsible operators, and leave the reef exactly as you found it. If you do, those islands will keep delivering their magic for many years to come.

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