Bird Island
A tropical paradise with pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking sunsets, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Bird Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tropical paradise with pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking sunsets, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
"Must stop place when your out on the water in gulf shores/orange beach."
Pack for the Sun 🌞
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, so stay protected!
Waterproof Bag Essential 🥲
Keep your phone and valuables dry during boat rides and beach activities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Beaches
Various points along the coastline
Sink your toes into soft, white sand and enjoy the calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Vibrant Marine Life
Coral reefs surrounding the island
Snorkel or dive to discover a colorful underwater world teeming with diverse fish and coral formations.
Island Sunsets
Western-facing shores
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant hues, a perfect end to a day in paradise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Sun 🌞
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, so stay protected!
Waterproof Bag Essential 🥲
Keep your phone and valuables dry during boat rides and beach activities.
Comfortable Footwear 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and potentially uneven terrain.
Book Boat Tours in Advance 🐎
Popular tours can fill up, especially during peak season.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Sun 🌞
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, so stay protected!
Waterproof Bag Essential 🥲
Keep your phone and valuables dry during boat rides and beach activities.
Comfortable Footwear 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and potentially uneven terrain.
Book Boat Tours in Advance 🐎
Popular tours can fill up, especially during peak season.
Respect Wildlife 🐦
Observe birds and marine life from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitats.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bird Island for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for family fun and relaxation. The opportunity to witness beautiful sunsets is a major highlight, though some find the island can get crowded during peak times.
"Definitely a spot we stop at every time on the water. It’s a beautiful spot to catch the sunset"
Ryan Mullen
"Great place for the whole family. White sandy beach without the surf."
hardcoreturkhunter
""
Kris Baldner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Bird Island is typically via boat tour from nearby coastal towns. Many tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services, making it convenient. +1 Research local tour operators in advance to find the best option for your needs and budget.
From Hurghada, boat trips to Bird Island (often referred to as Orange Bay or Giftun Island) usually take around 40 minutes by boat from the new marina. These excursions often include snorkeling gear and meals.
No, Bird Island is an island and is not accessible by car. Access is exclusively by boat. +1
While not traditional ferries, numerous boat tours and excursions operate to Bird Island, serving as the primary mode of transport for visitors. +1
Bird Island in Orange Beach, Alabama, is a pier and a specific location, not a separate island requiring boat travel. You can drive directly to the area. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, entry to Bird Island and its associated activities typically requires purchasing a boat tour package or an entrance fee, depending on the specific location and operator. +1
Costs vary depending on the tour operator and what's included. Some tours to Giftun Island (Orange Bay) can be around £19 and include meals and activities. It's best to compare prices from different providers.
Some resorts or tour operators might offer discounts. For example, Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, Alabama, offers discounts with specific codes. Always check for potential deals when booking.
Bird Island is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of organized boat tours. Specific operating times depend on the tour schedule. +1
It's highly recommended to book your boat tours or entry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Activities often include swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing on white sandy beaches, and enjoying the scenic views. Some tours may also offer banana boat rides. +1
Yes, Bird Island is often described as a great place for the whole family, with calm waters and beautiful beaches suitable for all ages.
You can expect to see a variety of marine life while snorkeling, including colorful fish. The island itself is named for its bird population, so birdwatching is also a highlight. 
Absolutely! The waters around Bird Island are typically calm and clear, making them ideal for swimming and water activities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The sunset views are particularly stunning.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some boat tours include meals and drinks as part of the package. On islands like Giftun (Orange Bay), there are often beachside cafes or restaurants available for purchase.
This can vary by location and tour operator. It's advisable to check with your tour provider beforehand. Some tours provide meals, so bringing your own might be unnecessary.
Tours often include a buffet-style lunch with local dishes. Drinks like tea, coffee, soft drinks, and water are usually provided.
It's best to inquire with your tour operator in advance about dietary options. Some tours may be able to accommodate special requests if notified ahead of time.
For seafood lovers, Lartigue's Original Swamp Tour & Seafood is highly recommended. Other popular spots in the Orange Beach/Gulf Shores area include The Gulf and Flora-Bama.
📸 📸 Photography
The white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs offer stunning photographic opportunities. Don't miss the sunset views!
A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing underwater shots. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes.
Drone regulations can vary significantly by location and protected status. It's crucial to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Arrive before sunset and find a clear vantage point. Experiment with different angles and consider using a tripod for sharper images in low light.
Videos often showcase the stunning turquoise waters, boat trips, and the overall relaxing beach vibe. Drone shots and underwater footage are also popular. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing extra snacks and drinks, as well as plenty of sun protection. The ease of access via boat tours and the natural beauty of the island make it a memorable experience for both parents and children.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're in the Orange Beach, Alabama area, explore options for affordable accommodations or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when prices might be lower.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Many accommodations offer stunning ocean views, perfect for enjoying a quiet evening together. Consider booking a sunset cruise or a dinner at a beachfront restaurant for a truly memorable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waters: Snorkeling and Diving
Many boat tours offer snorkeling stops at prime locations, providing gear and guidance for an immersive experience. Remember to respect the delicate coral and avoid touching marine creatures to preserve this natural wonder. For those seeking a deeper exploration, diving opportunities are also available, allowing for a more intimate encounter with the underwater world. Certified divers can arrange for guided dives to explore deeper reefs and potentially spot larger marine species. Always prioritize safety and dive with reputable operators.
When planning your underwater adventure, consider the best times for visibility, which are typically during daylight hours with calm seas. The clarity of the water around Bird Island often provides excellent conditions for both casual snorkelers and experienced divers.
The Avian Paradise: Birdwatching on Bird Island
Visitors can expect to see a variety of seabirds, shorebirds, and potentially even some land-based species depending on the island's habitat. For optimal birdwatching, early mornings are often the most rewarding, as birds are typically more active during these cooler hours. Bring binoculars and a field guide to help identify the different species you encounter. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing nesting sites.
Some locations, like the Bird Island in Seychelles, are specifically known for their rich birdlife, including terns and other seabirds.
Even if you're not an avid birder, the sheer presence and calls of the island's avian inhabitants add a unique auditory dimension to the experience. Island Getaways: Accommodation and Relaxation
For those looking for a more exclusive experience, private villas or lodges might be available, offering enhanced privacy and amenities.
Beyond the accommodation itself, the island lifestyle encourages relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether it's lounging on the beach, enjoying a sunset cocktail, or simply taking in the natural beauty, Bird Island provides a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit