Orange Bay Hurghada: the complete island guide

Everything about the Orange Bay trip from Hurghada: the day's programme, snorkeling, lunch, price, children's prices, what to bring and our tips.

Red SeaUpdated October 11, 20263 min read

With its pale sand and almost unreal turquoise water, Orange Bay has become Hurghada's postcard. It is the most booked excursion in town, and for good reason: in one day you combine a boat trip, snorkeling on a coral reef, lunch and time on a dream beach.

Where is Orange Bay?

Orange Bay is a beach on one of the islands off Hurghada, in the protected Giftun islands area. It can only be reached by boat, from Hurghada marina. The crossing is a chance to admire the coast and, with a bit of luck, spot dolphins.

How the day works

  1. Pick-up at your hotel in Hurghada in the morning and transfer to the port.
  2. Boarding and sailing towards the reefs.
  3. Snorkeling stop on a reef full of fish and coral, with equipment and supervision.
  4. Buffet lunch with unlimited soft drinks.
  5. About 1.5 hours of free time on the island: swimming, sunbathing, photos.
  6. Return to port in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel.

The Orange Bay Island excursion is available from 25€ per person, with daily departures.

Which option to choose?

The classic day

The most affordable option: shared boat, snorkeling stop, lunch and free time on the island.

Orange Bay + White Island

The Island + White Island option (from 30€) adds a stop at a white sandbank in the middle of the sea, perfect for photos.

Semi-private or private

To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more attentive service, the Speed Boat Semi Private offers Orange Bay days in a small group, and the Catamaran Private lets you charter the whole boat.

Children's prices

On the Orange Bay day, children under 5 are usually free and ages 5-7 get 50% off. Exact conditions are on each trip page: if in doubt, ask us.

What to bring

  • Sunscreen (ideally reef-safe)
  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • A towel and a change of swimwear
  • A photo of your passport on your phone (port checks)
  • A waterproof camera or GoPro
  • Some cash for extras on the island

Our tips

  • Snorkeling is for everyone: life jackets are available and the staff help if you are not confident.
  • Do not touch the coral or feed the fish: it is a fragile, protected ecosystem.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: the glare off the water is strong, even when it is windy.
  • Seasick? Take precautions before boarding; the sea is usually calm in the morning.

Orange Bay or Paradise Island?

Both are superb. Orange Bay stands out for its turquoise lagoon and wooden decks on the dunes; Paradise for its large beach and sunset option. For a first visit to Hurghada we recommend Orange Bay; if you have been before, try Paradise or Mahmya. Full comparison: the best islands in Hurghada.

Orange Bay with children

Shallow water near the beach, lunch included and free entry for toddlers make it a perfect excursion with children. Bring a UV T-shirt and a hat: shade is limited in the middle of the day. More ideas in Hurghada with kids.

Best season for Orange Bay

The trip runs every day of the year. From May to October the water is warmest and the lagoon's colours are dazzling. In winter, days stay sunny but the water is cooler: a shorty wetsuit makes snorkeling more pleasant. See the best time to visit Hurghada.

Booking Orange Bay with Hurghada For You

Send us your date, the number of people and your hotel on WhatsApp: we confirm the pick-up time. If your hotel is in El Gouna, Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh, a transfer supplement applies (€20, €15 or €10 for 1 to 3 people).

Frequently asked questions

How much does an Orange Bay trip cost?
With Hurghada For You, the Orange Bay day costs from 25€ per person, with snorkeling, buffet lunch and soft drinks.
How long do you stay on Orange Bay island?
About 1.5 hours of free time on the island, plus the snorkeling stop and lunch on board.
Do you need to swim to go to Orange Bay?
No. You can enjoy the beach and the shallow water; for snorkeling, life jackets are provided and the team accompanies you.