Giftun Islands Guide 2026: Orange Bay vs Paradise vs Mahmya

Quick Summary: Giftun is one protected marine park off Hurghada with several commercial beach clubs on the same sand strip—Orange Bay, Paradise Island, and Mahmya. They share the sand but offer completely different tours and activities: Orange Bay = photogenic shallow sandbar; Paradise Island = loud entertainment and better swimming; Mahmya = pricier, quieter, better snorkeling tours.

Giftun Island is the protected landmass; the three names most travelers use are the beach clubs on the same strip. You can’t “go to Giftun” generically—you pick a club and that choice defines the day.

Why This Guide Exists

This guide exists to stop tourists picking the wrong beach based on photos and marketing. The differences are real and measurable: water depth, wind sensitivity, crowd density, transit time, and price. Choose wrong and you’ll either freeze in ankle-deep water, drown in loud speakers, or pay a premium for a quiet lunch.

The Landscape & Context

Geography first: all three operate inside the Giftun marine park about 7–10 km off Hurghada Marina. Transfer time by daily big boat is typically 45–60 minutes one way; private speedboats cut that to around 20 minutes. The sandbars shift with tide—mornings keep the sandbar flatter and boat traffic lower. National Park fee: $5 USD (≈250 EGP) per person on entry.

Orange Bay sandbar and shallow wading zone.

Part 2: The Options (Comparison)

Read these bluntly: Orange Bay = shallow, photogenic, packed by mid-morning. For timing strategies to avoid crowds, check our Instagram vs Reality timing guide. Paradise Island = better depth for actual swimming, heavy entertainment midday (stage shows, belly dancers, loud speakers). Mahmya = smaller, quieter, dedicated kitchen, better reef access, and higher price. If you want kids safety, Orange Bay’s knee-deep water stretches hundreds of metres; if you want snorkelling quality and silence, Mahmya is the better fit.

Paradise Island loungers and activity area.

Mahmya shoreline and reef access.

Part 3: The Logistics (How to Do It Right)

Two transport realities: standard daily “big boats” vs private speedboat. Daily boats: 45–60 minutes one way, fixed departure (usually 9:00 AM), 30–40 people aboard, limited island time (1.5–2 hours), buffet lunch on the boat. Private speedboat (Routri VIP): ~20 minutes one way, flexible departures (leave at 8:00 AM to beat the crowds), private group, flexible island time, lunch not usually included. For a full cost and time breakdown, see our Speedboat vs Daily Boat comparison. Every operator must collect the national park fee on arrival.

The Wind Factor:Hurghada averages strong winds. Summer (June–Sept) 15–20 knots—useful as natural A/C. Winter (Dec–Mar): if forecast shows wind above 18 knots, reconsider Orange Bay specifically—shallow water + cold wind = unpleasant. If wind >12 knots and it’s winter, expect to be cold standing in ankle-deep water.

Insider Tips & Scams to Avoid

Practical warnings you’ll thank us for:

• National Park Fee Trap: Operators or street sellers may quote prices that exclude the mandatory $5 USD park fee; expect to pay it at the marina or on arrival.
• Free Drink Trick: Boat buffet drinks often included; island bar drinks are not. A can of cola on Orange Bay can cost 5–6 Euros—bring bottled water from the boat.
• Photo Guy Pressure: Boat photographers will push for $20–$30 for packages. Say “No” at the start if you don’t want photos taken or be prepared to bargain.
• Toilet Toll: Bring small Egyptian Pounds for toilet attendants and toilet paper tips on some islands.

Photo setups: swings and hammocks at Orange Bay.

Safety & Ethics

Giftun is a protected ecosystem. Do not stand on coral or feed fish—feeding disrupts reef food chains. Life jackets should be visible and worn on speedboats when moving fast; the Red Sea destinations chop can be rough. If you see people walking on coral, call it out—reef damage is cumulative and often permanent.

Booking & Logistics

Booking options: standard daily boats for budget travellers or private speedboats for control and timing. For a private speedboat option and direct booking, see Routri’s private Orange Bay speedboat listing below—this is the higher-cost, higher-value choice if photos and early access matter.

Check Availability: Private Speedboat to Orange Bay

FAQs

Can I visit two islands in one day?

Yes, but only via Private Speedboat. Standard big boats usually visit one island per trip due to fixed schedules and time constraints.

Is the food on the island halal/safe?

Yes. Island restaurants cater to international hygiene norms, but prices are high (airport-level pricing). The daily boat buffet is cooked fresh onboard and safe—expect rice, pasta, chicken, kofta, and salad.

Which island is best for kids?

Orange Bay is the safest for toddlers because of the extensive shallow water (like a giant kiddie pool). Paradise Island has a kids area but loud music—not ideal for sensitive children. Mahmya is quieter and better for older kids who can snorkel.

Do I need to bring my passport?

Yes. The Coast Guard requires a copy of your passport or ID for marina clearance. A phone photo is a minimum; some operators prefer physical copies.

Are there sharks near the beach?

No. The shallow, sandy swimming zones with heavy boat traffic are not shark habitat. You’re more likely to encounter sea urchins—wear water shoes for reef areas.

Final word: match your priorities. If photos and a dramatic shallow sandbar matter, go Orange Bay early. If you want actual swimming and entertainment, choose Paradise Island and accept the noise. If you want quiet, quality food and better snorkeling tours—and you don’t mind paying for it—book Mahmya. Timing, wind, and transit method will determine whether the day is excellent or ruined.

Further reading on Routri:

• Orange Bay vs Paradise vs Mahmya | Giftun Guide
• Hurghada Red Sea Snorkeling Tour | Full-Day Boat
• Hurghada Speed Boat to Orange Bay with Snorkeling (Private)
• Mahmya Island Snorkeling Tips on Giftun
• diving-excursion-in-hurghada">Hurghada Full-Day Snorkeling & Scuba Diving Excursion