You didn’t fly from Europe to Hurghada just to sit by the pool (even if the pool is perfect). You came for that “island day” feeling: the boat pulls away, the city disappears, and suddenly you’re heading into water so turquoise it looks unreal. That’s what most people mean when they search hurghada island—a simple, well-planned day to Giftun with beach time and a bit of reef magic. If you want the easiest way to secure the best timing and a clean, clear plan, book your trip now.
What does Hurghada Island actually mean?
First, a quick myth-buster: Hurghada itself is not on an island—it’s a Red Sea coastal city.
When travellers (especially from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Scandinavia) search Islands near Hurghada, they usually mean the Giftun area and its famous beach stops: Orange Bay, Mahmya, and similar “island club” spots.
Giftun is also a big deal for marine life—HEPCA calls it “the jewel in Hurghada’s diving crown” and notes that a large share of Hurghada dive sites sit off its shores, with extensive coral diversity and hundreds of marine species.
The main island: Giftun and why everyone goes there
Giftun is the core of the classic Hurghada island trip because it combines:
- Reef stops (snorkel/swim time)
- Beach time that feels “tropical”
- A short, comfortable sailing distance from Hurghada
HEPCA also highlights Giftun’s environmental importance, including its role as a major nesting ground for green turtles.
How long is the boat ride?
For Orange Bay specifically, it’s located about forty minutes by boat from the new marina in Hurghada.
That’s one reason it’s such an easy win for European holidays: big scenery, minimal travel drama.
Orange Bay vs Mahmya: choose the vibe you want
Orange Bay
It is famous for shallow, crystal-clear turquoise water and beach-photo energy. It is a natural bay on the ecologically protected island of Giftun, surrounded by coral reefs and marine life, with shallow turquoise sea stretching for almost one and a half km and a maximum depth of five meters.
Pick an Orange Bay island trip if you want:
- The “floating in shallow turquoise” feeling (great for beginners)
- Iconic photo spots and relaxed beach time
- A day that balances snorkelling stops + beach club vibes
Mahmya
Mahmya is a more curated, eco-style beach setup on Big Giftun. It’s a private beach on Big Giftun Island and publishes clear schedules (for example, a day schedule departing 8:30 a.m. and returning at 4:00 p.m.).
Pick a Mahmya island excursion if you want:
- A more structured “premium beach day” feel
- Clear timing that helps you plan your evening
- Comfort-first pacing (especially nice for couples)
What your Giftun Island from Hurghada day feels like
You start with a hotel pickup (or meet at the marina), step onto the boat, and the holiday mood switches on instantly. The crew gives the plan, you choose sun or shade, and the Red Sea becomes your schedule.
Most good days follow a smooth flow:
- Cruise out while the coastline shrinks behind you
- First reef stop: you ease into the water and find your confidence
- Second reef stop: you stay longer, take photos, enjoy the colours
- Island time (Orange Bay or Mahmya) where you can properly relax
- Return to Hurghada feeling sun-tired in the best way
If your departure is near Hurghada Marina, it’s also a nice place to walk after your trip—Hurghada’s marina as a pleasant, car-free place to stroll, especially in the evening.
What’s included and what to confirm before you pay
Not all “island trips” are equal. Before you book, confirm these in writing:
- Transfers: hotel pickup/drop-off included or optional
- Snorkelling equipment: included vs extra (varies by package)
- Lunch/soft drinks: included on many full-day formats (depends on the offer)
- Time on the island: “visit” can mean 45 minutes… or a proper beach block
- Any fees: some trips list fees separately depending on operator/beach program
Windy weather and safety: what happens if the sea is rough?
This is a top UK/EU question, and the honest answer is: reputable operators adjust plans based on sea safety.
Many tour terms and booking notes state itineraries may change due to weather or sea safety concerns.
And some tour listings explicitly say the activity requires favourable weather conditions, offering an alternative date or refund if cancelled due to poor weather.
A smart traveller rule: if conditions are rough, reschedule. The “perfect island day” is always better on a calmer sea.
A quick reef-respect guide (so the beauty stays beautiful)
Because Giftun is ecologically important (corals, species richness, turtle nesting), your behaviour matters.
Keep it simple:
- Float—don’t stand on coral
- Don’t feed fish
- Keep fins away from reef tops
- Give turtles and wildlife space
Why book with Hurghada Royal Tours
A couple from Stockholm told us they wanted a hurghada island day that felt easy: no confusing meeting points, no last-minute surprises, and enough time on the beach to actually enjoy it. So we planned it like this: reef stops first (best water clarity), then the island time that matched their vibe (Orange Bay for photos, Mahmya for calm comfort), then a smooth return.
Book directly with our team: Hurghada Royal Tours
Here’s what it feels like when you book with us:
You tell us your hotel and your “dream day” (more beach vs more snorkel). We confirm the best option and timing, then keep the plan simple and clear:
- Pickup details shared in advance
- A realistic day flow (reef time + island time)
- Clear inclusions so you’re not guessing
- A checklist of what to bring
FAQs about Hurghada Island
Is Hurghada on an island?
No—Hurghada is a coastal city. “Hurghada island” usually refers to nearby island trips to Giftun beach areas.
What’s the best island trip from Hurghada: Orange Bay or Mahmya?
Orange Bay is famous for shallow turquoise water and beach-photo vibes. Mahmya is a private beach on Big Giftun with clear schedules and a more curated feel.
How long is the boat ride to the islands near Hurghada?
Orange Bay’s official site says it’s about forty minutes by boat from Hurghada’s new marina.
Are island trips from Hurghada safe in windy weather?
Operators commonly change itineraries or cancel/reschedule if weather or sea safety requires it, often offering a new date or refund when cancelled for poor weather.
If you want the most iconic Red Sea day, hurghada island is the experience to book: Giftun reef stops, then Orange Bay’s shallow turquoise paradise or Mahmya’s calm comfort—done with clear timing and zero stress.
Book now and we’ll organise the best island day for your dates, hotel, and holiday style:
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