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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Giftun Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine archipelago in the Red Sea, offering white-sand beaches, vibrant snorkeling, and idyllic bays like Orange Bay.
"Lovely island with great white sandy beach and clear turquoise water, comparable to the Maldives."

📸 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Snorkeling Adventures
Various spots around Giftun Islands
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs of the Red Sea. Many tours offer snorkeling stops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Trip in Advance
Pack Smart for Sun and Sea
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
No, the Giftun Islands are accessible only by boat. There are no roads or bridges connecting them to the mainland.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
Private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya have restaurants, bars, and facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas. Public areas may have fewer amenities.
Yes, the shallow, calm waters make it perfect for children. The soft sand is also great for playing.
Light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Water shoes are recommended for walking on the beach and entering the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Most day trip tours to Giftun Islands include lunch, often a buffet-style meal. Drinks may be included or available for purchase.
Yes, private beaches like Orange Bay and Mahmya have restaurants and cafes offering various food and beverage options.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
While drones can capture stunning aerial views, check local regulations regarding drone usage in national parks and protected areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Orange Bay and Mahmya Island
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. Despite this, the unique scenery and the chance to experience a tropical escape make them highly sought-after destinations for day-trippers.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
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. 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.
Planning Your Day Trip
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. 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. Packing essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit