An island day is part of every successful holiday in Hurghada. But between Orange Bay, Paradise, Mahmya, Hula Hula and Eden, it is hard to choose. Each island has its own atmosphere: lively, family, nature, premium… Here is our honest comparison.
Orange Bay: the most famous
Pale sand, a turquoise lagoon and a lively atmosphere: the postcard island. The Orange Bay Island day (from 25€) includes a snorkeling stop, a buffet lunch and about 1.5 hours on the island. Ideal for: a first time in Hurghada, photos. See our complete Orange Bay guide.
Paradise Island: day or sunset
Paradise offers a big beach, very clear water and a festive feel. Its asset: the Sunset option that leaves later so you can enjoy the end of the day. Paradise Day Or Sunset from 45€. Ideal for: couples, people who do not like early starts.
Mahmya: the most natural
Mahmya is built around eco-tourism, with preserved water and a white sand beach. Calmer and more comfortable, with snorkeling in the late morning. Mahmya from 85€. Ideal for: relaxing, travellers avoiding crowds.
Hula Hula: great value
A programme close to Orange Bay (1.5 hours on the island, snorkeling stop, lunch) in a setting that is often a little less busy. Hula Hula Island from 25€. Ideal for: smaller budgets.
Eden Island
Beach, snorkeling, a snack and lunch: Eden Day (from 60€) is a lovely full day at a gentler pace.
Bianca Utopia and Ozirea: the newcomers
More recent, Bianca Island Utopia and Ozirea Island focus on comfort, with a fitted-out beach and snorkeling. A good alternative if you have already done the classics.
Going private?
With the Speed Boat Semi Private, you reach Orange Bay, Magawish, Hula Hula or Paradise in a small group. The Catamaran Private lets you charter the boat for your family or friends.
Summary table
| Island | Atmosphere | For whom? | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Bay Island | Postcard, lively | First visit | 25€ |
| Paradise Day Or Sunset | Festive, sunset | Couples, late risers | 45€ |
| Mahmya | Nature, calm | Relaxing | 85€ |
| Hula Hula Island | Simple, effective | Small budgets | 25€ |
| Eden Day | Full day | Families | 60€ |
| Bianca Island Utopia | Comfort | Returning visitors | 65€ |
How much does an island day cost in Hurghada?
Allow from 25€ to 85€ per person in a group, lunch and snorkeling included, and more for semi-private or private options. Transfers from Hurghada hotels are included. See our price guide.
What does an island day include?
- Return transfer from your hotel in Hurghada.
- The boat crossing and a snorkeling stop with equipment.
- Lunch (depending on the option) and soft drinks.
- Free time on the island for the beach and swimming.
Usually not included: extras on the island and the transfer supplement from El Gouna, Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh.
Can you do two islands in one day?
Yes, with the Island + White Island option which combines Orange Bay or Hula Hula with a white sandbank, or by chartering a boat (Catamaran Private, Speed boat pack) to plan your own route.
Are the islands protected?
The islands and reefs off Hurghada are part of a protected area. To preserve them: do not touch the coral, do not collect shells or coral, do not feed the fish and take your rubbish back. Access fees may apply depending on the site.
Our advice
For a one-week stay, do one "postcard" island (Orange Bay or Paradise) and one calmer island (Mahmya or Eden), a few days apart with a safari or a cultural day in between.
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