Hurghada Paradise Island is a treasure of the Red Sea — a sun-soaked haven where travelers can experience Egypt’s coastal beauty at its finest. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, this island (often simply called Paradise Island) offers everything you’d want in a tropical escape: swaying palm umbrellas on white sand, warm turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs just offshore.

It’s no wonder that Hurghada Paradise Island has become one of the top attractions for anyone visiting Hurghada. In this guide, we’ll delve into what makes this island special, the activities you can enjoy, how to plan your visit, and why it’s a must-see on your Egyptian holiday itinerary.

What and Where is Hurghada Paradise Island?

Hurghada is famous for its stunning Red Sea coastline, and Paradise Island is the crown jewel among Hurghada’s many offshore islands. Despite the name, Paradise Island isn’t an independent island on its own; it’s part of the Giftun Island Marine Park, a protected area known for pristine beaches and marine life. When people say “Paradise Island,” they’re referring to a specific beach on Big Giftun Island that has been developed for day tourists seeking a slice of paradise.

Located roughly 15 kilometers from Hurghada’s shore, Paradise Island is easily reachable by tour boat in under an hour. The island’s official status as part of a national park means there are no hotels or permanent settlements — it’s preserved for day trippers to come and enjoy its natural beauty.

Once you arrive, you’ll find a stretch of soft sandy beach equipped with palapas (palm-frond umbrellas), sun loungers, and a few rustic facilities like a beach restaurant and bar. From the moment you set foot on the sand, the panoramic views of the Red Sea around Hurghada Paradise Island are breathtaking.

Things to Do on Paradise Island

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a chill-out-on-the-beach type, Paradise Island offers activities to suit every mood:

Snorkeling Among Coral Reefs

The waters around the island are shallow, clear, and teeming with marine life. Grab a mask and snorkel (tour boats provide gear) and explore the coral reefs just off the beach.

You’ll encounter colorful fish of all shapes and sizes — keep an eye out for clownfish, angelfish, and maybe even a friendly sea turtle. Snorkeling here is beginner-friendly due to the calm conditions, yet still exciting for experienced snorkelers because of the reef’s beauty.

Swimming and Sunbathing

If you’d rather relax, the gentle lagoon-like waters are perfect for swimming or simply floating as you gaze at the blue sky. Back on shore, stretch out on a sunbed and soak up the rays. The atmosphere on Hurghada Paradise Island beach is laid-back and fun, with music often playing softly from the bar area and plenty of space to find your own patch of sand.

Island Photography

Paradise Island is incredibly photogenic. There are some iconic photo spots you won’t want to miss — like the big sign that spells “PARADISE” that many visitors pose with. With the vivid sea as a backdrop, your photos will capture the essence of the island. Whether you’re snapping selfies or landscape shots, the bright colors and scenery are a photographer’s dream.

Enjoy a Beachfront Lunch

Nearly all trips to the island include a lunch, typically served in a shaded open-air dining area on the beach. It’s not a fancy meal, but sitting at a picnic table with sand underfoot, enjoying freshly grilled fish or chicken and salads, is part of the authentic Red Sea island experience.

Plus, nothing makes you hungry like a morning of swimming! Having lunch on Paradise Island with the sea breeze coming in is something visitors really cherish.

Water Sports and Activities

Depending on your tour, you might have the opportunity for extra activities. Some tours offer short banana boat rides or water tubing right off the beach, adding a burst of adrenaline to your day.

Others might set up a beach volleyball game. Occasionally, entertainment like a DJ or even a foam party might take place on very lively tour packages. Every trip can have its own unique fun elements, so there’s always something happening.

Hurghada Paradise Island vs. Other Excursions

Hurghada is a hub for fantastic excursions — from desert safaris to dolphin spotting trips. So what makes a Paradise Island trip special compared to other options? Firstly, the island offers a balance of relaxation and adventure that’s hard to beat. Unlike a pure snorkeling trip where you spend all day on a boat, at Paradise Island you get to set foot on land, lounge on a beach, and feel that island vibe.

It’s like visiting a tropical beach club in the middle of the Red Sea! The closest comparison is another nearby spot called Orange Bay (also on Giftun Island). Orange Bay has become known for its boho-chic wooden decks and swings in the water, attracting many Instagram enthusiasts.

Hurghada Paradise Island, on the other hand, feels a bit more natural and spacious, with wide-open sandy areas and simpler facilities. Many tourists end up visiting both if time permits, but if you prefer a slightly quieter beach with a “castaway” feel, Paradise Island might win for you.

Compared to land-based activities like desert quad biking or visiting historical sites, a day at Paradise Island is purely about leisure and natural beauty. There’s no cultural sightseeing component — it’s all about the sun, sea, and sand. For travelers who have been touring Egypt’s temples or bustling cities, a beach day at Hurghada Paradise Island provides a perfect break to unwind.

Planning Your Visit to Paradise Island

Visiting Paradise Island is straightforward since it’s one of Hurghada’s most sought-after trips. Here are some planning tips:

Book a Reputable Tour

Dozens of tour operators in Hurghada offer daily excursions to Paradise Island. It’s often marketed as a full-day boat trip with snorkeling and lunch included. Try to book with a reputable company (check recent reviews or ask your hotel) to ensure good service. Generally, you can book a Hurghada Paradise Island tour online in advance or easily arrange it through your hotel’s tour desk or a local agent when you arrive.

What’s Included

A standard package will include hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat ride to and from the island, use of snorkel gear, lunch, and non-alcoholic drinks. It’s a good idea to clarify what’s included when you book so there are no surprises.

For example, some tours might exclude the environmental fee for the national park (around $5), which you’d pay in cash on the day, while others include it. Knowing the details helps you prepare.

When to Go

The trip runs year-round, but the best time for Hurghada Paradise Island is spring through autumn when the sea is warm. In the peak of summer (July–August), it can be very hot on the island, so bring extra sunscreen and maybe a UV-protective shirt for snorkeling.

Winter months (December–February) have cooler winds, but midday sun is still pleasant for beach time — just expect the sea to be a bit chillier (you might want a short wetsuit if you get cold easily).

What to Bring

Pack your beach bag with essentials like sunscreen (you’ll need a lot!), sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. If you have water shoes, they can be useful for the occasional rocky patch or hot sand, but not a must.

Also, bring some cash (Egyptian pounds) for any extras — you might want to buy a refreshing drink at the island’s bar or tip the boat crew if you enjoyed their service. Don’t forget swimwear and a cover-up or t-shirt for when you’ve had enough sun.

Duration of Trip

A typical excursion to Paradise Island lasts about 7 hours from start to finish. Boats usually depart around 9 AM and return by 4 or 5 PM.

That includes the boat rides, snorkel stops, and about 2 hours spent on the island itself. It’s a full, relaxing day, so plan it for a time when you don’t have other strenuous activities in the evening — you might come back pleasantly tired from the sun and sea.

FAQ about Hurghada Paradise Island

Is Hurghada Paradise Island suitable for children and families?

Yes, it’s a great family-friendly outing. The shallow water near the shore is perfect for kids to splash around in (under supervision, of course), and most tours provide life jackets if needed. Families enjoy the mix of activities — parents can relax on the beach while kids play in the sand or swim.

Just be sure everyone has sun protection and stays hydrated, as the sun can be strong. There are simple bathroom facilities on the island for convenience as well.

Can you visit Hurghada Paradise Island independently?

Since the island is part of a protected marine park, there’s no regular ferry or public transport to get there. The only practical way to visit Hurghada Paradise Island is by joining an organized boat trip or hiring a private boat. Group tours are the most convenient and cost-effective option for most travelers.

You can arrange them easily in Hurghada. Private charters are available too if you want a more exclusive experience, but they come at a premium price.

Will I get seasick on the way to Paradise Island?

The ride to Paradise Island is relatively short and usually quite smooth, especially in the morning when the sea is calmer. However, if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to take precautions. Sit towards the back of the boat or on the deck where you can get fresh air, and consider taking an over-the-counter motion sickness tablet before departure.

Once you’re on the island, you’ll have a couple of hours on solid ground which helps break up the boat travel.

What is the cost of a Hurghada Paradise Island tour?

Prices vary depending on the operator and package details, but generally a full-day Hurghada Paradise Island group tour (including snorkeling and lunch) ranges from around $30 to $50 USD per adult. Children often get discounted rates, and very young kids might even go free. Some higher-end tours with extra features (like smaller group size, premium lunch, or additional water sports) may charge more.

Always book through a trusted source and confirm what’s included in the price.

Do I need to know how to swim to enjoy Paradise Island?

Not necessarily. While swimming and snorkeling are main attractions of Hurghada Paradise Island, non-swimmers can still have a great time. You can relax on the beach, wade in the shallow waters at the shore, or even take a ride on a glass-bottom boat (if offered) to see the marine life without getting in the water.

If you do want to try snorkeling, life jackets are available and guides are happy to assist beginners. Many non-swimmers simply enjoy the boat ride, the sunshine, and the beautiful scenery.

Your Island Adventure Awaits

A trip to Hurghada Paradise Island is truly a slice of heaven on the Red Sea. It’s a day where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle, feel the sand between your toes, and marvel at the natural wonders lying just offshore. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic outing, or a family looking for fun, Paradise Island delivers a memorable experience for all.

Why not make this tropical daydream a reality? Reach out to SOLA Travel to plan your excursion to Hurghada’s Paradise Island. With expert help from SOLA Travel, arranging your Hurghada Paradise Island tour is hassle-free — so you can focus on enjoying the sun, sea, and serenity of this Egyptian paradise.