Orange Bay, Giftun Island

Orange Bay is a day-use beach on Giftun Kebir, the larger of the Giftun Islands, about 45-60 minutes by boat from Hurghada Marina in Egypt's Red Sea Governorate. The beach is a stretch of white, fine sand lapping onto shallow water that changes from pale aqua near the shore to deeper blue over the reef edge. Clarity is usually very high, and the gradual slope makes it comfortable for wading and relaxed swimming. The bay is sheltered enough that surf is minimal, though a steady northerly wind can bring some chop and cooler air in the afternoon.

Of the Giftun stops, Orange Bay is the more developed and sociable. The beach has rows of sun loungers, a restaurant and bar, showers, toilets and a water-sports kiosk offering activities such as banana boats, parasailing and other motorised options for an extra fee. The mood is lively and family-oriented rather than secluded, with music and several boatloads of day visitors sharing the sand between late morning and mid-afternoon. Snorkelling gear is available, and the reef off the beach holds a range of tropical fish for those who prefer to stay in the water.

Access is by organised boat only, as there is no road, car park or public ferry. Day-use packages from Hurghada Marina on Sheraton Road typically cost about EGP 1,500-2,750 (roughly $30-55) per adult and normally include lunch, with drinks and water-sports charged separately. Because the island forms part of the Giftun protected area, rules against touching coral, collecting shells and leaving rubbish apply, and the park entry fee may be charged on top of the package. Many boat operators combine Orange Bay with a snorkel stop elsewhere, so time on the sand is generally around two to three hours. The sun is intense and natural shade is limited beyond the beach-club umbrellas and covered seating, so sun protection and plenty of drinking water are advisable. Weather can change the sea state, and trips are occasionally cancelled or rerouted in strong wind.