Giftun Island is a Red Sea jewel an hour from Hurghada. Pristine white beaches, coral reefs, crystal-clear water—and national park status protecting this beauty from overexploitation. If you came to Egypt for the sea, Giftun is an essential stop.

National Park

Giftun is part of a marine national park established in 1995. This means restrictions: no breaking coral, no feeding fish, no leaving trash. Visitor numbers are also limited—the ecosystem is protected from overload.

In practice: tour boats moor at special pontoons to avoid anchoring on reefs. Lunch happens in designated zones. Snorkeling only in permitted areas.

Thanks to these measures, Giftun's corals are in good condition. After crowded Hurghada beaches, the difference is noticeable: cleaner water, more fish, livelier reefs.

Beaches

The island has two main beaches. Big Giftun (Giftun Kebir)—a long sandbar with gentle water entry. Ideal for families with children and those who simply want to swim.

Small Giftun (Giftun Saghir)—more secluded, with better snorkeling right from shore. Fewer visitors come here, so better chances for peaceful rest.

Sand on both beaches is white coral—soft and not scorching. It's not the Maldives, but excellent quality for the Red Sea.

Snorkeling and Diving

Giftun's main treasure is the underwater world. Coral gardens start right from shore and extend for dozens of meters. Butterfly fish, parrotfish, moray eels, rays—all visible with mask and snorkel.

For beginner divers, conditions are ideal: warm water (24-28°C year-round), good visibility (20-30 meters), mild currents. Many Hurghada dive centers organize training dives specifically at Giftun.

Experienced divers will find interest in the island's outer reefs. Here you encounter turtles, dolphins, and with luck—reef sharks. Depths to 30 meters, interesting terrain with caves and swim-throughs.

Getting There

You can't reach Giftun independently—only organized tours. Boats depart from Hurghada port each morning around 9:00. Return by 16:00-17:00.

Standard tours include: hotel transfer, boat trip, onboard lunch, time at two beaches, snorkeling. Masks and fins usually included, but quality varies—better to bring your own.

Atmosphere and Tips

Giftun is paradise within reach of mass tourism. Yes, boats bring crowds. But the national park keeps it relatively pristine. Come for the snorkeling, stay for the beach. The underwater world here is among the Red Sea's best accessible without advanced diving.