Island Trips in Hurghada: Best Day Tours to Paradise, Orange Bay, Mahmya & More
If you’re planning your Red Sea getaway, Island Trips in Hurghada are an absolute must. These day tours let you swap the pool for powdery sandbanks, crystal-clear snorkelling spots, and a proper mix of chill and adventure. Whether you’re into quiet nature escapes like Magawish and Abu Minqar, or prefer buzzing beach clubs like Orange Bay, there’s an island for every kind of traveller. From soft loungers and floating hammocks to coral reefs teeming with marine life, Island Trips in Hurghada show off the very best of the coast—all in one day. In this guide, we’re breaking down what each island offers, who it suits best, and how to choose the one that fits your vibe.
Let’s be honest—when you’re in Hurghada, it’s hard not to get tempted by those turquoise waters. And one of the absolute best ways to enjoy them? Island Trips in Hurghada.
Whether you’re after postcard-perfect beaches, a proper snorkelling session, or just a chilled-out day at sea, Island Trips in Hurghada are where it’s at. There are quite a few options out there, but if you’re choosing between Paradise Island, Orange Bay, and Magawish, here’s everything you need to know—no fluff, just proper helpful info.
Paradise Island Hurghada: A Soft Sand Dream
Vibe: Calm, family-friendly, slightly upscale
Top activities: Snorkelling, sunbathing, water games
Best for: Couples, families with kids, anyone needing a peaceful break
Paradise Island is exactly what it sounds like—a little slice of paradise. White sand, crystal-clear water, and wooden loungers that feel straight out of a Maldives ad. It’s part of Giftun Island National Park and it’s one of the most famous stops for day tours from Hurghada.
Most Paradise Island Hurghada trips include:
- Two snorkelling stops before reaching the island
- 2–3 hours on the island to swim, sunbathe or snap those dreamy pics
- Beachside buffet lunch with soft drinks
- Water games and chill vibes
It’s perfect for people who want a relaxed day but still want a bit of snorkelling and exploring thrown in.
Best Time to Visit:
March to May and September to early November – pleasant sun, fewer crowds.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
The iconic wooden sunbeds and swings right by the turquoise shoreline. Aerial shots from the boat approaching the dock look stunning.
Marine Life Guide:
Expect colourful reef fish like butterflyfish, parrotfish, and the occasional moray eel.
What to Pack:
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hat & sunglasses
- Light towel or pareo
- Snorkel mask (if you prefer your own)
Eco & Cultural Notes:
While the island has been developed for tourists, the reefs nearby are delicate. Avoid stepping on corals or touching marine life. No shells or sand should be taken home.
Orange Bay Hurghada: Trendy, Tropical & Totally Worth It
Vibe: Instagrammable, younger crowd, a bit trendier
Top activities: Floating hammocks, snorkelling, lounging in wooden cabanas
Best for: Groups of mates, couples, solo travellers looking for aesthetics and fun
If Paradise Island is the calm older sister, Orange Bay is the fun one. Think beach bars, sunbeds right on the water, and the clearest snorkelling spots around. The island itself has a slightly boho look with wooden structures and net hammocks hanging over the water—no wonder it’s all over Insta.
An Orange Bay trip usually includes:
- Two snorkelling stops at coral-rich reefs
- Entry to Orange Bay (some tours have it included, so check!)
- Buffet lunch served on the island
- Chill zone with sunbeds, hammocks, and music
Definitely one for the photo lovers and anyone who likes their beach days with a splash of style.
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early autumn – ideal for chill beach vibes and warm snorkelling conditions.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
Floating hammocks in the shallow sea, stylish lounge areas with straw parasols, and the “Orange Bay” wooden sign.
Marine Life Guide:
Calm, shallow waters filled with juvenile reef fish and sea grasses. Great for beginner snorkellers.
What to Pack:
- Floaties or snorkel vest
- Waterproof camera
- Cute swimwear for pics
- Eco-friendly wet wipes
- Cash for beach drinks
Eco & Cultural Notes:
Orange Bay balances a trendy vibe with some eco-awareness. Try to reduce single-use plastics. Smoking is discouraged near natural areas.
Magawish Island: A Bit More Wild & Less Crowded
Vibe: Quieter, nature-focused, more off the radar
Top activities: Snorkelling, beach exploring, laid-back swimming
Best for: Nature lovers, couples, people avoiding crowds
Magawish is a bit more low-key. It doesn’t have as much infrastructure as the other two, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll usually get a longer snorkelling session here, plus time to wander along the beach and just take in the natural beauty.
Most tours to Magawish include:
- Two snorkelling stops
- Around 2 hours on the island
- Buffet lunch and drinks onboard
- Water games or banana boat rides on the way back
If you’re after a bit more quiet and a nature-heavy day, this one’s ideal.
Best Time to Visit:
Autumn and winter – great for those wanting peace and quiet away from the crowds.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
Golden sandbanks surrounded by teal waters. Natural, untouched beach shots with a desert-island feel.
Marine Life Guide:
Seagrass beds and shallow corals home to rays, small groupers, and even cuttlefish if you’re lucky.
What to Pack:
- Sun hat & breathable cover-up
- Plenty of water
- Binoculars (for seabird spotting)
- Reef shoes
Eco & Cultural Notes:
This island is more rustic. There are no permanent structures, and it’s a nesting site for seabirds. Respect wildlife and avoid playing loud music.
Utopia Island: For the Underwater Obsessed
Vibe: Playful and active, with loads going on both above and below water
Top Activities: Snorkelling, banana boats, water games
Best For: Families with kids, fun-loving couples, anyone who wants activities built in
Utopia’s that kind of place you don’t expect much from, then suddenly you’re snorkelling above reefs that feel totally untouched. It’s closer to Safaga, so it’s a bit more of a ride, but honestly worth it.
The water’s super clear, and the fish just don’t care—they’re everywhere. Most tours stop for snorkelling first, and then you get to chill on the island for a bit. There’s not much on it, so it feels like you’re properly escaping everything.
Perfect if you’re into proper reef exploring, or if you just want something quieter than the bigger touristy islands. Good choice for couples or friends who are into the whole Red Sea magic kind of thing.
Best Time to Visit:
March–June or September–November for cooler snorkelling conditions and clear visibility.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
The sandbank in the middle of the sea, surrounded by nothing but water. Also: boats anchored side-by-side at sunset.
Marine Life Guide:
Healthy reefs with lionfish, blue-spotted stingrays, and plenty of soft coral fans.
What to Pack:
- Snorkelling socks or fins
- Quick-dry towel
- GoPro dome lens
- Lip balm with SPF
Eco & Cultural Notes:
Utopia is known for its offshore snorkelling rather than beach lounging. Respect reef safety guidelines and keep distance from other snorkellers to avoid crowding the coral.
Mahmya Island: For the Beach Luxe Vibes
Vibe: Exclusive, a bit upscale but still relaxed – kind of barefoot luxury
Top Activities: Snorkelling, beachside lunch, swimming in crystal-clear water
Best For: Honeymooners, couples, small groups who want that “Maldives feel” without the price tag
Mahmya’s part of Giftun Island but on the more eco-luxe side. It’s got this clean, boho-chic beach bar energy—wooden walkways, palm umbrellas, and cocktails that actually taste good.
It’s a proper protected area too, so everything’s done with sustainability in mind. You’ve got coral reefs to snorkel around and comfy loungers to just switch off. The restaurant on the island serves actual decent food, not just sandwich boxes.
It’s perfect if you’re looking to treat yourself without going full resort. We’d say go for this one if you’re into eco-tourism, want good facilities, and like your beach days a bit fancy but still low-key.
Best Time to Visit:
Year-round, though May to October sees the best sea clarity.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
Thatched sun loungers on white sands, the long wooden walkway into the sea, and wide-open drone shots from above.
Marine Life Guide:
Vibrant coral gardens with reef fish, trumpetfish, and even turtles in deeper areas.
What to Pack:
- Rash guard or long-sleeve swimwear
- Underwater GoPro
- Dry bag
- Reusable water bottle
Eco & Cultural Notes:
Part of Giftun Island National Park, Mahmya has stricter conservation rules. No touching corals, and tour boats follow protected routes. It’s one of the most eco-focused islands.
Shadwan Island: For the History Buffs and Divers
Vibe: Wild, remote, and a bit adventurous – feels like you’re off the grid
Top Activities: Diving (advanced), marine life spotting, photography
Best For: Scuba divers, explorers, and anyone craving something totally off the beaten path
Shadwan’s totally different from the rest—it’s wild, rocky, and waaay off the regular tourist route. It’s mostly known among divers, especially those into shipwrecks and deeper waters.
There’s a bit of military history attached to it too, so it’s got this quiet, almost mysterious feel. No crowds, no beach bars—just raw nature, amazing marine life, and some real adventure vibes.
It’s not for everyone, but if you’ve done the cute beach clubs and want something more rugged and real, this one’s unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit:
November to April – cooler months suit longer excursions.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
Cliff edges and dramatic rocky terrain with wild ocean backdrops. A rare desert-sea mix.
Marine Life Guide:
Less coral-heavy, but great for spotting larger sea life like turtles and even dolphins in the surrounding waters.
What to Pack:
- Proper footwear (it’s rocky)
- Sunblock and lip protection
- Light jacket for wind
Eco & Cultural Notes:
Shadwan is one of the largest islands in the Red Sea, known for its ruggedness and lack of facilities. Some military zones are restricted, so trips are only with licensed operators.
Tobia Island: The Little Reef Spot with Big Colour
Vibe: Calm and quiet, perfect for a day of floating and snorkelling
Top Activities: Snorkelling in shallow reefs, boat picnics, sunbathing
Best For: Families, older travellers, or anyone wanting a slow-paced island day
Tobia’s tiny, like blink-and-you’ll-miss-it tiny. But the coral? Unreal. The colours under the water are full-on next-level, and you don’t even need to dive to enjoy it.
Most tours that include Tobia are snorkelling-focused, and they often throw in a second reef stop too. It’s a fab pick for families or anyone who wants the underwater part of the trip to be the highlight.
Not much happening on the sand here, so don’t expect sunbeds or cafés. But for an off-grid reef fix? Yes. 100%.
Best Time to Visit:
Ideal for diving/snorkelling from May to October.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
Underwater photos with soft coral stacks and schools of fish—bring your action cam.
Marine Life Guide:
One of the best diving spots in the Red Sea. Schools of fusiliers, clownfish, and sometimes even dolphins near the reef.
What to Pack:
- Dive log or waterproof notebook
- Extra mask strap
- Light jacket for boat ride back
Eco & Cultural Notes:
Tobia is often visited for its underwater formations. It’s a low-impact island with minimal infrastructure, so pack out all your trash.
Abu Minqar Island: For the Private Trip Feel
Vibe: Desert-meets-ocean, raw and minimalist – very “lost island” feel
Top Activities: Sandbar walks, drone photography, basic snorkelling
Best For: Adventure-seekers, minimalist travellers, those into unique landscapes and no crowds
Abu Minqar is super close to the mainland, but still not that well-known. It’s usually visited as part of private boat hires or kite surfing safaris, so you don’t see it packed with people.
It’s more about the quiet, open views and chill than about facilities. Think sandbars, shallow lagoons, and lots of birdwatching. If you’re after privacy, it’s great for small groups who want to picnic, swim, and not hear a speaker playing the Macarena on repeat.
Definitely worth asking about if you’re booking a custom or private island trip from Hurghada.
Best Time to Visit:
October to April – cooler temps make the desert-like landscape more enjoyable, and the visibility is better for snorkelling during these months.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
The long sandbar surrounded by ultra-clear waters, perfect for wide-angle beach shots. Also great for minimalistic landscape photography – the kind where you look like you’re on another planet.
Marine Life Guide:
Not a dense reef area, but you can spot sea cucumbers, small reef fish, and patches of coral close to the island. It’s more about the seclusion and wild natural feel than marine biodiversity.
What to Pack:
- Sturdy sandals or reef shoes (it’s quite raw and rocky in spots)
- Extra water and snacks (very basic facilities)
- Drone (if you have one—it’s remote and open)
- Swimwear and light layers for sun protection
Eco & Cultural Notes:
Abu Minqar is still largely undeveloped, offering a wilder and more untouched side of the Red Sea. There are no permanent facilities, so be sure to leave no trace. It’s also close to protected marine areas, so always check with your guide before swimming or collecting shells.
Comparing Island Trips in Hurghada: What’s Right for You?
| Island | Best For | Vibe | Snorkelling | Time on Island | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Island | Couples & families | Calm & scenic | ✅ | 2–3 hrs | Great |
| Orange Bay | Social & trendy types | Lively & stylish | ✅ | 2–3 hrs | Excellent |
| Magawish Island | Nature & quiet seekers | Rustic & relaxed | ✅ | ~2 hrs | Basic |
| Utopia Island | Adventurers & snorkelers | Remote & natural | ✅✅ | ~2 hrs | Moderate |
| Mahmya Island | Luxury & comfort lovers | Exclusive & eco-friendly | ✅✅ | 3–4 hrs | Premium |
| Shadwan Island | Divers & explorers | Untouched & wild | ✅ (advanced) | No stop / Sightseeing | Minimal or None |
| Tobia Island | Snorkellers & day trippers | Small & reef-rich | ✅✅ | ~1 hr stop (no beach) | None (snorkelling only) |
| Abu Minqar Island | Calm escapes & boat lovers | Flat & peaceful | ✅ | ~1–2 hrs (seasonal) | Very basic |
What to Bring on Your Hurghada Island Trip
- Snorkel mask & fins (usually provided, but bring your own if you prefer)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses & a hat
- Swimwear & towel
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Cash for tips or drinks not included
- Light layers or a beach cover-up
Tips for Booking Your Island Trip
- Check what’s included – especially entry fees and lunch
- Ask about transfer times – most trips run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- If you’re sensitive to sea motion, pack anti-nausea bands or meds
- Book with a local operator – they usually offer better value than big resellers
Funny Picnic offers Paradise Island, Orange Bay, and Magawish tours all with comfy transfers, snorkelling gear, and fun guides who don’t make it feel too touristy. You can see all the listings on our Island Trips page.
