Orange Bay
A stunning island paradise in Hurghada, Egypt, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand, and iconic water swings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Orange Bay
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning island paradise in Hurghada, Egypt, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand, and iconic water swings.
"It feels like paradise at first sight and is definitely worth visiting if you’re in Hurghada."
💰 Bring Euros for Purchases
Local currency isn't preferred; Euros are best for drinks and extras on the island.
⏰ Limit Your Island Time
2-3 hours is often enough to enjoy the views and take photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters & White Sands
Giftun Island
Experience the 'Maldives of Egypt' with crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches.
Iconic Water Swings
Orange Bay Beach
Capture unforgettable photos on the famous swings set in the shallow, vibrant blue sea.
Snorkeling Adventures
Coral Reefs near Giftun Island
Explore vibrant marine life and unspoiled coral reefs on a snorkeling excursion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
What to Pack for Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bring Euros for Purchases
Local currency isn't preferred; Euros are best for drinks and extras on the island.
⏰ Limit Your Island Time
2-3 hours is often enough to enjoy the views and take photos.
💧 Stay Hydrated (and Budget)
Drinks are pricey; consider bringing your own if allowed or factor costs into your budget.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
The water swings and shallow bays offer stunning backdrops for memorable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Euros for Purchases
Local currency isn't preferred; Euros are best for drinks and extras on the island.
⏰ Limit Your Island Time
2-3 hours is often enough to enjoy the views and take photos.
💧 Stay Hydrated (and Budget)
Drinks are pricey; consider bringing your own if allowed or factor costs into your budget.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
The water swings and shallow bays offer stunning backdrops for memorable photos.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Many tours include gear, but bringing your own ensures a better fit and hygiene.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Orange Bay is lauded for its breathtaking turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often compared to the Maldives. Visitors love the picturesque scenery and photo opportunities, especially the iconic water swings. However, many note that it can be extremely crowded and that prices for food and drinks on the island are quite high, making it more of a short visit destination than a full-day escape.
"What an amazing place! They aren't kidding when they say this place is the Maldives of egypt. Drinks are expensive compared to the mainland, but id go again in a heartbeat.
Shallow water, swings in the sea, shaded bean bags on the beach, absolutely stunning place. Made a great holiday even better."
Darren Hull
"It is worth a visit, although there are many tourist groups. The waters are shallow and have wonderful colors, white sandy beachline and many spots to take pics. There are several bars to freshen up. There's not much to do on the island, so a total 2 hours are enough for everything."
Borbala Stuber
"Orange Bay is a beautiful spot for a short visit and photo opportunities, but it’s not ideal for swimming or spending a full day. The tides push the shoreline far away, services are quite limited, drinks are overpriced, and outside beverages are not allowed. Mobile and internet coverage are also very weak. Overall, it’s more suitable for a quick stop rather than a full-day experience."
mostafa Abd ElNasser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Orange Bay is typically accessed via boat tours from Hurghada's marina. Most tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off. The boat journey usually takes about 40 minutes to an hour. +1
Yes, you can find various tours ranging from budget-friendly options with basic inclusions to more premium experiences with private speedboats, all-inclusive food and drinks, and extra activities. +1
The boat ride from Hurghada to Orange Bay is generally around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of boat and the specific tour. +1
While it's possible to arrange private boat hire, most visitors opt for organized tours which often bundle transport, snorkeling, lunch, and island access.
Yes, Orange Bay is located on Giftun Island, which is part of the Giftun Island National Park, known for its protected coral reefs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Orange Bay can vary, with some sources mentioning around $10 USD, but it's often included in the price of boat tours. It's best to check what your chosen tour package covers.
Many tours include breakfast and lunch, and some offer soft drinks. However, alcoholic beverages and additional snacks are often extra and can be quite expensive on the island. +1
Yes, there are bars and dining options available on Orange Bay, but prices are generally higher than on the mainland.
Orange Bay is accessible during daylight hours as part of day-trip boat tours. Tours typically run from morning until late afternoon.
It's highly recommended to book your Orange Bay tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better pricing.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic water swings, the shallow turquoise waters, and the white sandy beaches are prime spots for photos. The island's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop.
Absolutely! Modern smartphones capture excellent photos. The natural lighting and vibrant colors of Orange Bay make it easy to get stunning shots.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour hues.
Drone usage might be restricted in national park areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, enjoying the water swings, and relaxing on the beach. Some tours also offer banana boat rides. +1
The waters are generally shallow and calm, making them suitable for swimming. However, the tide can affect the shoreline, sometimes pushing it far out.
Orange Bay can get very crowded, especially when multiple tour boats arrive simultaneously. Visiting on a weekday morning can help mitigate this.
It's known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed island vibe, often compared to the Maldives, though it can be busy.
While beautiful, some visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient due to crowds and limited activities. It's often part of a larger boat excursion.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bringing plenty of sun protection, hats, and water is essential for family comfort. While the island has services, it's wise to pack any specific snacks or comfort items your children might need. The boat journey itself can be an adventure, but ensure your chosen tour is family-friendly regarding duration and amenities.
📸 Photographers & Influencers
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer the best light, and visiting on a weekday might help you get shots with fewer people in the background. Be prepared for the crowds, as it's a popular spot for many tour groups.
While there are no strict photography bans, be respectful of other visitors. The island's beauty is its main draw, so focus on capturing the natural scenery and unique elements like the swings. Consider booking a tour that allows for a slightly longer stay or offers a more exclusive experience if you're aiming for pristine, crowd-free shots. 💰 Budget Travelers
Be mindful that drinks and snacks on the island are significantly more expensive. Bringing your own water and perhaps some snacks (if allowed by your tour operator) can save money.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Orange Bay Experience: Beyond the Photos
The island is part of the Giftun Island National Park, offering a glimpse into the Red Sea's natural beauty. Visitors typically arrive via boat tours from Hurghada, which often include stops for snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. While the visual appeal of Orange Bay is undeniable, it's important to manage expectations. Many reviews highlight that the island can become very crowded, especially when multiple tour boats dock simultaneously.
Despite these drawbacks, the natural beauty of Orange Bay remains its strongest asset. For many, it's a worthwhile stop on a Hurghada itinerary, offering unique photo opportunities and a chance to experience the Red Sea's allure. The key is to plan your visit strategically, perhaps opting for a weekday morning tour, and to be prepared for the potential crowds and higher costs.
Navigating Tours and Costs
It's crucial to read the fine print of any tour package. While lunch is often included, drinks can be an additional expense, and prices on the island are known to be inflated.
When comparing tours, consider what's most important to you: budget, inclusions, or the type of boat experience. Some TikTok videos showcase the fun and vibrant atmosphere of group tours, while others might hint at the possibility of more exclusive, private excursions for a different feel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit