Hurghada is comprised of beautiful resorts and hotels where you can stay and relax, but there are also many beautiful islands located just off the shores of the Red Sea.
Each island offers a unique experience and vibe, depending on the experience you are after, whether it is snorkelling, diving, a couple’s getaway, or just relaxing on a white sand beach. There is an island for you!
Coral reefs where the snorkelling stops take place on the way to the islands
Let us start with a family-friendly location and one of the most popular islands.
Mahmaya Island
With a family beach club vibe, this island has a little something for everyone.
- White sand? Got it.
- Sun bed canopies? Got it.
- Beach bars? Got it.
- Shallow water? Got it.
- Chill music playing over loudspeakers? Got it.
The management of Mahmaya Island have a great eco-friendly system where only a limited number of tourists can visit daily, and the staff of the island do their best to observe and ensure that the coral reefs, natural coastline, and marine life in the area are all respected, cared for, and safe.
The reason for this island being one of the most popular is the exclusivity feeling you get due to the limited number of people, which in turn means the beach is not overcrowded and you can enjoy a peaceful, relaxing trip. This is also why it is one of the pricier options to visit.
It is around a 40-minute boat ride from the shore, meaning that there is plenty of time to have snorkel stops between and/or a dip in the sea just to cool off before exploring the island.
An open buffet lunch is also served on the island, offering a variety of delicious dishes including meat, vegetables, and fish. Unlimited drinks are also available throughout the day.
Mahmya Island
The Giftun Islands
Let’s say they are two brothers: you have the big brother, Giftun Kebir, and the small brother, Giftun Saghir (which in Arabic, Kebir literally means big and Saghir literally means small).
Known best for the surrounding coral reefs, which means there is vibrant marine life available to see, making for the best snorkelling and diving opportunities. You may even see a moray eel or two. It has also been known to be visited by dolphins, so you could check them all off your list in one visit!
Looking out over the different shades of blue from the white sand beach, these waters are so clear that you don’t even need to go far before you can start seeing little fish swimming by your feet.
These islands are around 45 minutes from Hurghada’s shoreline, and you can usually arrange either a full-day trip or a half-day trip, depending on what you fancy.
Giftun Islands (Giftun Kebir)
Paradise Island
Also known as Mahmaya’s sister, this island might not be as expensive as Mahmaya, but it is certainly as beautiful.
Offering white sands against the clear blue sea, sunbeds, umbrellas, a beach bar, and music, it gives the perfect atmosphere to go and forget your worries. Think about nothing but the blue stretching out in front of you, and what’s below the blue?!
Although there is no large reef off this coast, there is still a great snorkelling opportunity with the schools of fish that swim around there. However, no worries, you will be given snorkelling stops and opportunities on the 30–40 minute boat ride to the island.
Paradise Island also sometimes hosts live music events, so be sure to ask if there is an upcoming show during your holiday period.
Paradise Island
Orange Bay
This beach/island is surrounded by shallow waters, making it comfortable for families with children or those who are not so confident in swimming but still want to see the underwater world.
Plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas are provided, as well as a few restaurants offering mixed cuisines available on the island. With music being played over the speakers for all to hear, this island has a unique option of hiring beach cabins which can be used for day use or even an overnight stay.
Perfect photo opportunities are presented with a swing located in the shallows of the water, as well as tables and chairs on the water’s edge where you can enjoy a cool beverage or a bit of lunch.
This is one of the more averagely priced islands and is only located around 35 minutes from Hurghada; therefore, making it a popular choice for daily visitors.
The view from the top of Orange Bay
Hula Hula Island
Banana boats. Sofa beds. Speed boats. Jet skis. Snorkelling and diving off the shore. These are just some of the water sports available at this unique island.
Hula Hula combines the perfect mix for the thrill-seekers and the peace-finders. With a restaurant and bar surrounded by seating areas overlooking the Red Sea, it also adds a value of romance to the day.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available, as well as beanbags if that is more your vibe.
Hula Hula Island
The Perfect Island Awaits
Enjoy breathtaking white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, natural coves, vibrant reefs, and delicious lunches on one of Hurghada’s islands.
Whether it’s a day of relaxation, exploration of the world that lies under the waves, or a thrilling afternoon chasing the fun, there is an option for everyone.
Just remember your cream, hats, sunglasses, and you’re good to go!
