
Magawish Island
A serene Red Sea island escape with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets, offering a tranquil alternative to Hurghada's bus...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Magawish Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Red Sea island escape with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets, offering a tranquil alternative to Hurghada's busier attractions.
"Magawish Island is a beautiful bit of paradise, a short boat ride from Hurghada."

🎯 Book Boat Tours Wisely
Opt for private tours for more flexibility or choose glass-bottom boats to see marine life without getting wet.
💰 Be Mindful of Drink Prices
Prices at beach servers can be higher than at the bar. Check menus carefully before ordering.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sand Beaches
Various points along the coastline
Experience Maldives-like sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters for ultimate relaxation and stunning photo opportunities.

Vibrant Coral Reefs & Marine Life
Offshore snorkeling spots
Dive into a snorkeling paradise with abundant colorful fish and healthy coral reefs just a short swim from shore.

Magical Red Sea Sunsets
Western-facing shores
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors, offering a perfect end to an island day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Island Bliss
Island Entry & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat Tours Wisely
Opt for private tours for more flexibility or choose glass-bottom boats to see marine life without getting wet.
💰 Be Mindful of Drink Prices
Prices at beach servers can be higher than at the bar. Check menus carefully before ordering.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Provided
Most tours include snorkeling equipment, but check beforehand to ensure it's available.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as the sun can be intense, especially on the open water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat Tours Wisely
Opt for private tours for more flexibility or choose glass-bottom boats to see marine life without getting wet.
💰 Be Mindful of Drink Prices
Prices at beach servers can be higher than at the bar. Check menus carefully before ordering.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Provided
Most tours include snorkeling equipment, but check beforehand to ensure it's available.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as the sun can be intense, especially on the open water.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
The island is dotted with spots perfect for photos, especially around the bar area and beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Magawish Island is praised as a beautiful, tranquil 'hidden gem' with stunning white sand beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors appreciate the more relaxed atmosphere compared to busier islands, the delicious food and drinks available, and the breathtaking sunsets. Some minor drawbacks include potentially hard beach surfaces and occasional litter, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and peaceful escape.
"Magawish Island is such a contrast to the much busier Giftun Island aka Orange Bay Island. This was where my private speed boat took me for the second half of the day. There is much less people and not as much covered comfy seating but I found the little bar served up Fast delicious food, tasy alcoholic beverages and delicious milkshakes! On the downside I wish they would add more sand as I found most of the beach was hard on the feet. I would highly recommend coming here!"
Jay BouncingPlaces (BOUNCINGPLACES)
"Stopped off here as part of a private boat tour, what a wonderful place.
Loads of things to sit on for photos and the scenery is fantastic.
Great bar area too.
Snorkeling is superb, you don't have to go far out to the coral and theres loads of fish swimming around..
Well worth a visit."
Ju
"The island is particularly beautiful, full of coral, turquoise sea and white sand."
Ave
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Magawish Island is typically accessed via boat tours from Hurghada. Options include speedboats for a thrilling ride or glass-bottom boats, which allow you to observe the underwater world without getting wet.
Yes, you can find various boat trips, from group tours to private speedboats. Some tours offer combinations with other islands like Orange Bay or Dolphin House.
The travel time to Magawish Island is usually a short boat ride from Hurghada, often around 30-45 minutes depending on the type of boat and departure point.
Absolutely! Private speedboat rentals are available, offering a more personalized experience and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
While it's a popular destination, Magawish Island is often described as a 'hidden gem' and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to busier islands like Giftun.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee, often around 150 EGP per person, which usually includes access to the island's facilities.
The entry fee generally covers access to the island's facilities, including seating areas, and sometimes includes services like drinks and food.
Tickets are usually purchased as part of a boat tour package. It's advisable to book your tour in advance, especially during peak season.
There are generally no specific age restrictions for visiting Magawish Island, but children should be supervised, especially near the water.
Magawish Island is typically accessible during daylight hours as part of day boat tours. Tours usually depart in the morning and return in the late afternoon.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing on pristine beaches, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, and relaxing at the island's bar.
Yes, Magawish Island is renowned for its superb snorkeling. You can find coral and abundant colorful fish close to the shore.
The beaches are beautiful with stunning sand, though some visitors note that parts of the beach can be hard underfoot.
Basic facilities are usually available on the island, often associated with the bar or tour operator's setup.
Yes, there are often options for renting equipment such as canoes, adding to the recreational activities available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a bar on the island that serves delicious food, including fast options and tasty beverages.
You can expect a variety of food options, from quick bites to more substantial meals, often served at the island's bar or via beach service.
Yes, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the island's bar.
Prices can vary. While a beer might be listed at 250 EGP on the menu, beach servers might quote €5. It's best to confirm prices at the bar.
It's generally recommended to check the specific policies of your tour operator or the island management regarding outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The island offers numerous picturesque spots, especially along the white sand beaches, the bar area, and anywhere with views of the turquoise sea.
Absolutely! The sunsets over the Red Sea from Magawish Island are spectacular and provide incredible opportunities for photography.
If you have a waterproof camera or phone case, you can capture amazing underwater shots of the coral and marine life.
During the day, expect bright, sunny conditions. The late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, perfect for portraits and landscapes.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tour that includes snorkeling gear suitable for various ages, allowing older children to explore the shallow reefs alongside adults. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, as the Egyptian sun can be strong, and ensure everyone stays hydrated. The relaxed atmosphere of Magawish Island makes it a less overwhelming choice than some of the busier tourist spots, providing a peaceful yet engaging experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on the natural beauty and activities that don't cost extra, like swimming and sunbathing. The snorkeling is excellent and often included in the tour price, offering significant value. Bringing your own reusable water bottle and snacks can also help cut down on expenses.
💖 Couples and Relaxation Seekers
For a touch of adventure, consider a private speedboat tour that allows you to set your own pace and perhaps discover quieter coves. Snorkeling together in the clear turquoise waters, surrounded by vibrant marine life, can be a memorable shared activity. The laid-back atmosphere of Magawish Island ensures a peaceful retreat, far from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Magawish Island by Boat
When planning your boat trip, consider whether you prefer a group tour or a more exclusive private boat charter. Private tours offer greater flexibility in terms of timing and itinerary, allowing you to spend more time at Magawish Island or customize your route. Regardless of the boat type, the scenic journey itself, with its stunning sea views and the anticipation of reaching a tropical paradise, is a highlight for many visitors.
It's worth noting that some boat tours might include refreshments like soft drinks and fruits, and snorkeling equipment. Always confirm what's included in your package to make the most of your island excursion.
Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters
While the snorkeling is superb, some reviews mention that the seabed can have areas of rubbish, which detracts slightly from the otherwise pristine environment. However, the abundance of marine life often overshadows this concern for many. For those interested in diving, the surrounding waters also offer excellent opportunities to explore deeper reefs and encounter a wider array of sea creatures.
When preparing for your snorkeling adventure, ensure you have your own gear if it's not provided by your tour operator, or check the quality of the rental equipment. A waterproof camera is highly recommended to capture the stunning underwater scenes.
Island Amenities and Visitor Experience
For refreshments, there is a bar that serves a variety of food and drinks. Visitors have praised the delicious food and tasty beverages available. However, it's important to be aware of pricing, as beach service might quote different prices than the bar itself; confirming costs beforehand is advisable. Beyond the bar, the island also offers other attractions such as canoe hire, adding an element of active recreation to your visit.
While the island is a beautiful escape, some visitors have noted that parts of the beach can be hard underfoot, and occasional rubbish can be found. Despite these minor points, the overall sentiment is that Magawish Island is a beautiful bit of paradise and a worthwhile visit for its stunning views and laid-back atmosphere.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit