Paradise Island, Giftun

Paradise Island is one of the best-known day-trip stops on Giftun Kebir in the Giftun Islands, around 45-60 minutes by boat from Hurghada Marina in Egypt's Red Sea Governorate. The beach is a wide curve of soft sand beside a shallow lagoon whose water runs from glassy turquoise over the sand to darker blue above the reef. Visibility is generally excellent, and the lagoon is calm enough for children and nervous swimmers to paddle comfortably. Exposure is moderate; the island is surrounded by open sea, so a northerly wind can make the outer water choppy while the inner shallows stay settled.

The character is that of a casual, sociable day-trip beach rather than a resort. Boats arrive through the late morning, and the sand fills with groups from many operators until mid-afternoon. Facilities are basic but adequate: shade structures, some loungers, toilets, and lunch served either on the beach or aboard the boat, depending on the operator. Snorkelling gear can be hired, and the reef close to the shore is popular for easy snorkelling with reef fish and occasional sightings of larger marine life. Many Paradise Island trips include a second snorkel stop at a different reef site, which leaves around two to three hours on land.

There is no road, car park or public ferry; the only access is by organised boat from Hurghada Marina on Sheraton Road. Day packages with lunch usually cost about EGP 1,250-2,250 (roughly $25-45) per adult, and the Giftun park fee may be charged separately if it is not bundled. Rules for the protected area apply, including no touching of coral, no feeding of fish and no removal of shells or rubbish. Sun exposure is strong and shade is limited, so a hat, long-sleeved rash vest and reef-safe sunscreen are practical. Strong wind occasionally shortens or cancels trips, so it is worth confirming the weather policy with the tour operator when booking.