Giftun Islands Red Sea
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Giftun Islands

4.7
·981 reviews·, Egypt

A pristine archipelago in the Red Sea, offering white-sand beaches, vibrant snorkeling, and idyllic bays like Orange Bay.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Giftun Islands Red Sea

Giftun Islands

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A pristine archipelago in the Red Sea, offering white-sand beaches, vibrant snorkeling, and idyllic bays like Orange Bay.

4.7
(981 reviews)

"Lovely island with great white sandy beach and clear turquoise water, comparable to the Maldives."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your best camera! The turquoise waters and white sands are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:

💰 Budget for Extras

Beverages and ice creams can be pricey on the islands. Factor this into your budget. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Orange Bay

Orange Bay

Giftun Island

A vibrant, picturesque bay with overwater swings and hammocks. Perfect for stunning photos and a relaxed beach day.

Mahmya Island

Mahmya Island

Giftun Island

Pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Snorkeling Adventures

Snorkeling Adventures

Various spots around Giftun Islands

Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs of the Red Sea. Many tours offer snorkeling stops.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Trip in Advance

Popular spots like Orange Bay and Mahmya can get crowded. Booking tours or day trips ahead of time ensures your spot and often secures better pricing. Consider booking directly with reputable tour operators for a smoother experience.

Pack Smart for Sun and Sea

The Egyptian sun is intense! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable swimwear and water shoes are essential for exploring the beaches and potential snorkeling. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your electronics.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
April to May
Why
Pleasant weather, less heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏝 Hula Hula Island Program – Hurghada ⏰ Duration: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 📌 Itinerary: • 🚐 Pickup from the hotel at 8:00 AM • ⛵️ Board the yacht from the marina • 🤿 First snorkeling stop (approx. 45 mins) at a coral reef site • 🐠 Second snorkeling stop at a different location (approx. 45 mins) • 🏖 Arrival at Hula Hula island – relax in a well-equipped beach area (sunbeds – umbrellas – tropical déco...
@aura_egypt_tours
43.9K likes • 1.7M views

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your best camera! The turquoise waters and white sands are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:

💰 Budget for Extras

Beverages and ice creams can be pricey on the islands. Factor this into your budget. :moneybag:

Feel the Magic in the Air 🥰 Jaz Makadi Saraya Resort ☀️ Makadi Bay 🏖️ Hurghada Ägypten 🇪🇬 #makadibay #hurgada #ägypten #urlaub #hurghadaegypt #hurghada♥️ #hurghadacity #hurghadaairport #makadi #orange #vodafone #animationteamegypt #holafly #holaflyesim #jazmakadioasis #jazmakadisarayaresort #fortarabesquevillas #sunrisetucanaresort
@hurghadadreamss
39.2K likes • 1.6M views
📍Giftun Island . . . #orangebay #giftunisland #hurghada #paradise #beach #marvermelho #redsea #beautifulplaces #traveltheworld #egipto #praia #beautifuldestinations #ile #traveling
samanthareais
0 likes • 1.8K views

🤿 Snorkel Gear

While tours often provide gear, bringing your own ensures a comfortable fit and hygiene. :athletic_shoe:

🚤 Boat Trip Bliss

Enjoy the scenic boat ride from Hurghada; it's a highlight for many visitors. :boat:

Have you ever been to 📍Giftun Islands National Park near Hurghada? BREATHTAKING paradise on earth 🏝❤️ TAG someone you’d love to go there with!😍 🎥 @terplanet Remember to tag us or use #thisiscairo for your chance to be FEATURED! 🤩 #thisisegypt #thisiscairo #uniquegypt #visitegypt #amazingegypt #exploreegypt #مصر #exploreegypt
thisiscairo
17K likes • 412.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your best camera! The turquoise waters and white sands are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:

💰 Budget for Extras

Beverages and ice creams can be pricey on the islands. Factor this into your budget. :moneybag:

🤿 Snorkel Gear

While tours often provide gear, bringing your own ensures a comfortable fit and hygiene. :athletic_shoe:

🚤 Boat Trip Bliss

Enjoy the scenic boat ride from Hurghada; it's a highlight for many visitors. :boat:

🚫 Photo Discs

Be wary of purchasing photo discs; quality can be poor and expensive. :noentrysign:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(981 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Giftun Islands, with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, often comparing it to the Maldives. Private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya are highlighted as particularly marvelous and worth the cost for their unique charm and amenities. While the boat trip is a significant highlight, some note that the reefs in shallow waters have been impacted, and extras like photo discs can be poor quality and overpriced.

"Lovely lovely island with great white sandy beach and clear turquoise water. There are public and private beaches all of which are great. The private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya are simply marvelous and worth the money. There are also some nice snorkeling spots but not the spots the regular trips go to. The reefs in the shallow waters have been mostly ruined but still OK. The best thing is the boat trip, really love every moment faring over the red sea from Hurghada port to Giftun and back."

Khaled Elsayed

"Good trip, helpful staff. Would not recommend dvd with photos of yourself as quality is very poor which you don't realise until you get home and they charge £25."

Mike Garnett

"Fabulous island with its gorgeous scenes, the beach had a magical water, transparent and pure, this place is just for being calm and peace."

د. شيماء سمير - مهندسة ديكور

What People Like

Stunning white sand beaches
Clear turquoise waters
Beautiful boat trip

What People Dislike

Expensive extras
Damaged shallow reefs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach the Giftun Islands is by boat tour from Hurghada. Many tour operators offer day trips that include hotel pickup and drop-off, boat transfers, and stops at popular spots like Orange Bay and Mahmya Island. The journey typically takes about 40 minutes to an hour by boat. Instagram+2

While there are public beaches on Giftun Island, access is primarily through organized boat tours and private beach resorts. Dedicated public ferry services are not widely advertised, making organized tours the most practical option for most visitors. Reddit

You can book Giftun Island tours online through various travel agencies, directly with boat tour companies in Hurghada, or through your hotel. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time. Instagram+1

The boat trip from Hurghada to the Giftun Islands typically takes around 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific island and the type of boat used. Instagram+1

No, the Giftun Islands are accessible only by boat. There are no roads or bridges connecting them to the mainland. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, access to the Giftun Islands National Park usually requires an entrance fee, which is often included in the price of your boat tour. Private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya may have separate entrance fees or require you to book a package. Instagram+1

Most day trips include boat transportation, lunch, and drinks. Some may also include snorkeling equipment and access to specific beach areas. Always check the tour details when booking. Instagram+1

Yes, Giftun Island has both public beaches and private beach areas managed by resorts like Orange Bay and Mahmya. The private beaches offer more amenities and a curated experience. InstagramReddit

The islands are generally accessible during daylight hours as part of organized tours. Specific opening and closing times for private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya are determined by the managing resorts. Instagram

The cost of a Giftun Island trip can vary widely depending on the tour operator, what's included, and the specific beaches visited. Prices can range from approximately $30 to $100 USD per person. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can relax on the white sandy beaches, swim in the clear turquoise waters, snorkel to see marine life, and take stunning photos. Some tours may offer additional activities like banana boat rides. TikTokInstagram

Snorkeling is a popular activity, with vibrant marine life and coral reefs. While some shallow reefs may show signs of wear, many areas still offer excellent underwater exploration. InstagramReddit

Private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya have restaurants, bars, and facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas. Public areas may have fewer amenities. Instagram+1

Yes, the shallow, calm waters make it perfect for children. The soft sand is also great for playing. Reddit

Light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Water shoes are recommended for walking on the beach and entering the water. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Most day trip tours to Giftun Islands include lunch, often a buffet-style meal. Drinks may be included or available for purchase. Instagram+1

Yes, private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya have restaurants and cafes offering various food and beverage options. Instagram+1

Some visitors have noted that beverages and ice creams can be quite expensive on the islands. It's advisable to check prices beforehand or bring some snacks if permitted. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic spots include the overwater swings and hammocks at Orange Bay, the pristine white sand beaches, and the vibrant blue waters. The boat journey itself offers great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Some tours offer photo packages or discs of your day. However, be cautious as the quality can be poor and the price high, as noted by some travelers. Reddit

While drones can capture stunning aerial views, check local regulations regarding drone usage in national parks and protected areas before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Giftun Islands are a fantastic destination for families. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for children to splash and play safely. Reddit The soft white sand provides an ideal playground for building sandcastles. Many tours offer a relaxed pace, allowing families to enjoy the sun and sea without feeling rushed. Consider booking a tour that specifically caters to families or offers a more relaxed itinerary. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya can be pricier, there are ways to enjoy Giftun Islands on a budget. Look for group tours that offer competitive pricing and include lunch. Reddit Some tours might focus on public beach access, which can be more affordable. Bringing your own snacks and water can also help save money, as on-island purchases can be expensive. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Giftun Islands offer incredible photographic opportunities. The vibrant turquoise waters, pristine white sands, and unique overwater features at Orange Bay are a photographer's delight. TikTokInstagram Aim for morning visits to avoid the harshest midday sun and potentially larger crowds, which can enhance your shots. The boat journey itself provides scenic views of the Red Sea. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Orange Bay and Mahmya Island

Giftun Islands National Park is home to two of the most popular destinations: Orange Bay and Mahmya Island. Orange Bay is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring overwater swings, hammocks, and colorful decor, making it a photographer's dream. TikTokInstagram Mahmya Island, on the other hand, offers a more serene experience with its untouched white sandy beaches and exceptionally clear turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation and swimming. Instagram Both locations provide a stark contrast to the mainland of Hurghada, offering a true slice of paradise. Instagram

Access to these areas is typically managed by private resorts, which means there might be an entrance fee or a requirement to book a package that includes amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and access to their restaurants and bars. While the beauty of these spots is undeniable, some visitors have noted that prices for food and drinks can be on the higher side. Reddit Despite this, the unique scenery and the chance to experience a tropical escape make them highly sought-after destinations for day-trippers. Instagram

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The Red Sea surrounding the Giftun Islands is teeming with marine life, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can expect to see a variety of colorful fish and coral formations. Instagram While the shallow waters near the main beaches might show some signs of wear, many tours include stops at prime snorkeling locations where the reefs are more vibrant and diverse. Reddit

It's advisable to bring your own snorkeling gear for comfort and hygiene, although most tours provide equipment. The clarity of the water is exceptional, offering excellent visibility for underwater exploration. Instagram Remember to respect the marine environment by not touching corals or disturbing the wildlife. The boat journey itself often provides glimpses of dolphins, adding to the overall marine experience. Reddit

Planning Your Day Trip

A day trip to Giftun Islands is a popular activity for those visiting Hurghada. Tours typically depart from the Hurghada Marina and include boat transportation, lunch, and often soft drinks. Instagram+1 The duration of the trip can vary, but most allow ample time for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Instagram+1

When choosing a tour, consider what you want to experience. Some tours focus more on relaxation at a specific beach club like Orange Bay, while others might offer more extensive snorkeling opportunities. Instagram It's also wise to check what's included in the price, as extras like photo packages or specific water sports can add to the cost. Reddit Packing essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable day. TikTok

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