Picture a secluded island with powdery white sand, surrounded by water so clear you can see the fish from the boat. This is Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea, a slice of tropical heaven just off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt. Often called a “paradise” for good reason, the island offers a peaceful escape from the bustling resorts.
Regardless of your preference for sunbathing or snorkeling, Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea will captivate you with its natural beauty and relaxed vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can completely unwind while marveling at one of the Red Sea’s most stunning locations.
What and Where is Paradise Island?
Paradise Island is part of the Giftun Island National Park, a protected area in the Hurghada Red Sea region. In fact, the full name Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea hints at its location – it lies in the Red Sea, not far from the shores of Hurghada. The island is essentially a beach oasis on Giftun Kebir (Big Giftun Island).
It’s about a 45-minute boat ride from the mainland. The moment you step onto its soft white sand, you’ll understand how it earned its name. The island is relatively small and undeveloped, which is why it feels so pristine. There are a few simple facilities (like sunshades and a rustic beach hut cafe), but no hotels or large buildings. Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea remains unspoiled, allowing visitors to experience nature at its finest.
Turquoise Waters and Vibrant Coral Reefs
One of the biggest draws of Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea is the surrounding water. The sea here is a brilliant turquoise color, shifting to deep blue further out. It’s incredibly clear – perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Just off the island’s shores are coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Snorkelers often venture a little further from the beach (usually with a guide as part of a boat tour) to witness colorful corals and playful fish. You might spot clownfish hiding in anemones, angelfish cruising by, or even a curious dolphin passing in the distance. The reefs around Paradise Island are part of the Red Sea’s famed ecosystem, considered among the best snorkeling spots in Hurghada.
Even if you simply paddle in the shallow water, you can often see small fish darting around. The island truly showcases the underwater wonders that make the Red Sea world-famous.
Beach Relaxation and Island Vibes
Beyond snorkeling, the island itself provides the ideal setting for relaxation. The sand is fine and bright, almost white, creating a stunning contrast with the blue sea. Visitors can lounge on beach chairs or spread a towel on the sand. The atmosphere on Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea is laid-back – it’s all about enjoying the sun and sea at your own pace.
You can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline and feel the gentle lapping of waves at your feet. There’s often light music coming from the small beach bar, adding a pleasant tropical ambiance without being intrusive. If you’re looking for peace and scenic beauty, you’ll find it here.
Even families with kids love Paradise Island, as the shallow waters near the beach are perfect for safe play and swimming. While the island can get a fair number of visitors during peak season, it never feels as crowded as the public beaches in town, because access is limited to those on organized tours.
Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea offers a sense of exclusivity – like spending a day on a private beach in the middle of the sea.
How to Visit Paradise Island
The only way to reach Paradise Island is by boat. Thankfully, it’s easy to arrange a day trip as it’s one of Hurghada’s most popular excursions. Many tour operators and hotels offer packages, often marketed as “Paradise Island Snorkeling Trip” or “Giftun Island Tour”. A typical Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea trip starts with a morning boat departure from Hurghada Marina.
The boat ride itself is enjoyable, with gorgeous views of the coastline and the open sea. Tours usually include stops for snorkeling at reefs on the way to or from the island, giving you the best of both worlds: reef exploration and island relaxation. Once at Paradise Island, you’ll have a set amount of time (usually a couple of hours) to enjoy the beach.
Lunch is often provided either on the boat or at the island’s beach hut, and it’s usually a simple buffet style meal that hits the spot after swimming. Some tours also include fun water activities like banana boat rides or a glass-bottom boat viewing. By early to mid afternoon, boats head back to Hurghada.
Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea excursions are typically half-day or full-day, returning by around 4:00 PM. It’s advisable to book with a reputable operator who provides snorkeling gear, guiding, and safety measures on the boat.
Tips for Your Trip
1- Bring Essentials
Since Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea is a protected site with limited facilities, make sure to pack what you need. This includes sunscreen (reef-friendly if possible), a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. Also bring a swimsuit (though you’ll likely wear it on the way) and a change of clothes if you want to dry off after swimming.
2- Snorkeling Gear
If you’re keen on snorkeling around the island, check if your tour provides gear. Most do, but if you have a favorite mask or snorkel, you can bring your own. Don’t forget an underwater camera if you have one – the photo ops are fantastic.
3- Cash for Extras
There may be a small entrance fee to the national park (often included in tour price) or charges for things like drinks at the beach bar or renting a shaded sunbed. Having a bit of cash (Egyptian pounds or even euros/dollars) on hand is helpful on the island in case you want to buy a fresh juice or a souvenir.
4- Respect the Environment
Paradise Island’s beauty is fragile. Help keep it that way by not littering. If you smoke, use designated ashtrays rather than the sand. Avoid stepping on or touching the coral if you’re snorkeling – it’s alive and takes decades to grow.
5- Timing
The island can be quite sunny and there is limited natural shade. It’s a good idea to take breaks from the sun under the provided umbrellas or huts. Also, remember that the last boat leaves in the afternoon – no one stays overnight on the island, as the island is only open for day visits.
Why Paradise Island is a Must-See
Out of all the islands and beaches in the Hurghada area, what makes this one special? First, the combination of soft sands and rich marine life is hard to beat. Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea gives you that castaway island feeling without straying far from civilization. It’s a chance to see a preserved part of the Red Sea environment.
For many travelers, this excursion becomes the highlight of their Hurghada vacation – it’s a refreshing change of scenery and a welcome break from resort life. Also, the island’s name isn’t an exaggeration: when you’re lounging on the beach, gazing at the crystal-clear water, with palm-leaf umbrellas dotting the sand, you truly feel like you found paradise.
Additionally, the logistics are easy: short travel time and tours that cater to your needs, so it’s suitable even for those who may be newer to boat trips or snorkeling. Lastly, the memories you make – be it spotting an exotic fish while snorkeling, or sharing a laugh during the boat ride – are what travel is all about. Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea encapsulates the joy of holiday adventures in a single, beautiful trip.
Choosing SOLA Travel for Your Island Trip
To make your Paradise Island experience seamless, it’s wise to go with a trusted tour provider. SOLA Travel, with its 25 years of experience, offers comprehensive Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea tours that take care of everything. From the moment you sign up, they ensure you know the schedule and what to bring. On the day of the trip, you’ll benefit from their comfortable transport and friendly crew.
Safety is a priority; SOLA Travel provides life jackets, clean snorkeling equipment, and guidance for those who are new to such excursions. What sets SOLA Travel apart is the extra care – like helping you find the best snorkeling spots, preparing a satisfying lunch, and giving you ample time to enjoy the island without rushing.
They also handle the park fees and permissions required to visit the island. With SOLA Travel, you can simply relax and look forward to your day in paradise, knowing that every detail of your Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea tour is in good hands.
FAQ about Paradise Island Hurghada
Is Paradise Island the same as Giftun Island?
Paradise Island is part of Giftun Island. Giftun Island actually has two main islands (Giftun Kebir and Giftun Soraya). Paradise Island refers to a tourist beach area on Giftun Kebir, near Hurghada. When people say Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea, they mean the day trip destination on Giftun Kebir.
How do I get to Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea?
The island is accessible only by boat. You need to join a tour or hire a boat from Hurghada. Tours leave in the morning and include the boat ride to and from the island (about 45 minutes each way). Booking through a reputable operator like SOLA Travel is recommended for a smooth experience.
What can I do on Paradise Island?
The main activities revolve around enjoying the sea and sand. Snorkeling is highly popular because of the coral reefs nearby. Swimming and floating in the clear shallow waters is wonderful for all ages. Some tours offer water sports like banana boat rides. Or you can simply relax, sunbathe, and take in the views. Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea is all about leisure and nature.
Are food and drinks available on the island?
Most day trips include lunch (often served on the boat or at a simple island eatery). There is a small beach bar on the island where you can buy drinks and snacks. It’s a casual setup – think cold sodas, water, and maybe fresh fruit or chips. It’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water with you when you go ashore, especially on hot days at Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea.
Is Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly destination. Kids love the boat ride and the chance to play on a beautiful beach. The water is shallow near the shore, making it safe for supervised splashing and swimming.
- Just keep an eye on little ones as you would at any beach.
- Also, remember to protect them from the sun with hats, sunscreen, and maybe a rash guard for swimming.
Ready to experience the unforgettable beauty of Paradise Island Hurghada Red Sea in 2025?
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