Magawish Island Hurghada | Red Sea Snorkeling, White Sand Beach & Island Day Trip
Magawish Island Trip from Hurghada — Two Reef Snorkeling Stops, Beach Time, Buffet Lunch & Optional Diving
Magawish Island is one of Hurghada's best-kept secrets — a 850,000 square metre island just 7.5 kilometres southeast of Hurghada, with some of the finest natural beaches and most vibrant coral reefs accessible on any Red Sea day trip. Unlike the busier Giftun Island clubs, Magawish offers a quieter, less crowded atmosphere combined with exceptional snorkeling at the famous Magawish Reef, a white sandy beach with warm shallow water, and an unhurried pace that suits families, couples, and first-time snorkelers equally well. This all-inclusive Magawish Island tour from Hurghada includes two guided snorkeling stops, beach time on the island, a buffet lunch with unlimited soft drinks, and hotel transfers — at one of the most accessible price points of any Hurghada island excursion.
Book your Magawish Island trip today — limited places per departure, book early!
Description
Magawish Island sits 7.5 kilometres southeast of Hurghada in the Red Sea — close enough to make it one of the fastest island crossings available from any Hurghada resort (typically 15 to 30 minutes by speedboat or 30 to 45 minutes by standard yacht), yet far enough from the mainland to offer a genuinely different environment: quieter, less developed, and surrounded by some of the healthiest coral reefs within easy reach of Hurghada. The island covers approximately 850,000 square metres, making it one of the larger islands accessible on a day trip from Hurghada, and its coastline alternates between fine white sand beaches, rocky outcrops, and the shallow turquoise lagoons that have earned it comparisons to the Maldives from repeat visitors. The Magawish Reef itself — the dedicated snorkeling site on the seaward side of the island — is considered one of the best snorkeling destinations close to Hurghada, with over 1,000 documented species of fish and 150 species of coral recorded in the surrounding waters. Unlike the Giftun Island reef sites, which receive very high boat traffic daily, Magawish sees a fraction of the visitor numbers — which translates directly into a better underwater experience: less disturbance, more marine life behaviour, and quieter water. A typical Magawish Island trip from Hurghada includes two snorkeling stops at separate reef sites, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of beach time on the island, a buffet lunch served on board with unlimited soft drinks, and an optional single scuba dive for a modest additional charge — making this one of the few Red Sea day trips that genuinely caters to both dedicated snorkelers and those who simply want a beautiful, relaxed day on the water.
Who Should Book the Magawish Island Trip from Hurghada?
- Serious Snorkelers & Underwater Photographers — The Magawish Reef is one of the most biodiverse and least disturbed coral reef sites accessible on a day trip from Hurghada. With 1,000+ documented fish species, 150 coral species, and significantly lower daily boat traffic than the Giftun Island sites, Magawish offers snorkeling conditions that experienced underwater explorers recognise as genuinely exceptional. The two separate reef stops — different habitats, different species compositions — give the day real depth.
- Families with Children — The short boat crossing (15–30 minutes by speedboat) is far more manageable for young children than the 45–60 minute Giftun Island crossings. The calm, shallow lagoon on the island is ideal for children, and the beach time is generous and unstructured. The optional scuba dive gives older children (and adults) a genuine first underwater experience in extremely safe, shallow conditions.
- First-Time Snorkelers — Magawish Island's calm, clear water and patient guide support make it one of the best introductions to Red Sea snorkeling available from Hurghada. Life vests are provided throughout, the depth at the snorkeling stops is well-chosen for beginners, and the sheer density of fish at the Magawish Reef means that even a short, surface-level snorkel produces memorable encounters.
- Travellers Who Want Quiet Over Crowds — Magawish Island is consistently described by guests as one of the most peaceful island experiences near Hurghada — noticeably less busy than Orange Bay, Paradise Island, or Hula Hula. If your priority is space, calm, and the sound of waves rather than beach animation and music, Magawish is your island.
- Budget-Conscious Travellers Who Refuse to Compromise on Quality — Magawish Island tours represent some of the best value in the Hurghada island excursion market: comprehensive (two reef stops, beach time, lunch), excellent (Magawish Reef is genuinely world-class), and accessible in price. For travellers who have done the research and want the best reef for their money, Magawish consistently delivers.
- Couples & Honeymooners — The quiet atmosphere, beautiful beach, and excellent snorkeling make Magawish Island one of the most naturally romantic day trips available from Hurghada. Private speedboat options take the crossing down to 15 minutes and give couples the boat entirely to themselves — a significantly more intimate experience than a shared group yacht. The island's unhurried pace means the day never feels rushed.
Where Is Magawish Island and How Do You Get There from Hurghada?
Magawish Island is located in the Red Sea, 7.5 kilometres southeast of Hurghada — making it one of the closest island destinations accessible on a day trip from the city. The island sits at approximately 27°08′N, 33°58′E, in open Red Sea water to the southeast of the Hurghada coastline, distinct from the Giftun Island archipelago which lies to the south-southwest. It covers approximately 850,000 square metres — relatively large for a Red Sea island accessible on a day trip — and its diverse coastline includes white sand beaches, sheltered lagoons, rocky headlands, and extensive coral reef systems on its seaward edges.
How do you get to Magawish Island from Hurghada? Access is exclusively by boat, as part of an organised day trip. There is no public ferry service and no independent route. The boat crossing takes between 15 and 30 minutes by speedboat and 30 to 45 minutes by a standard group yacht — significantly shorter than the crossings to Giftun Island (Orange Bay or Mahmya), which take 45 to 60 minutes. This shorter crossing time is one of Magawish Island's most practical advantages: you spend more time on the island and less time at sea, which matters particularly for families with children or guests who are sensitive to sea conditions.
Tours to Magawish Island depart from Hurghada Marina — most operators use Tito's Marina or the main Hurghada passenger harbour. Hotel pickup is arranged from all major Hurghada resorts, typically starting at around 08:00 AM, with the boat departing at approximately 09:00 AM. Pickups from El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay, and Soma Bay are also available, usually for a small additional transfer charge.
The island's proximity to Hurghada also means that Magawish is one of the few Red Sea island destinations where a half-day trip format is genuinely viable — some operators offer morning-only or afternoon-only departures for travellers who want a shorter excursion. The standard full-day tour, however, remains the most comprehensive option, covering two snorkeling stops, beach time, and a buffet lunch.
National park or conservation fees may apply depending on the specific route and reef sites visited — always confirm at booking whether environmental access fees are included in the tour price. Magawish Island itself has accommodation — hotels, chalets, and villas operate on the island — but these are separate facilities from the day-trip experience and require separate booking.
Magawish Island vs Orange Bay — An Honest Comparison
Two of the most popular island day trip options from Hurghada — Magawish Island and Orange Bay on Giftun Island — are frequently compared by travellers researching their Red Sea excursion. They are genuinely different experiences, and the choice between them matters. Here is an accurate, honest breakdown.
Location and Journey Time
Magawish Island is 7.5 km southeast of Hurghada — a 15 to 30 minute speedboat crossing. Orange Bay is on the western shore of Giftun Island, approximately 10 to 12 km from Hurghada Marina — a 45-minute crossing. The practical difference: Magawish gives you more time on the island for the same departure time. For families with young children or anyone concerned about sea conditions, the shorter Magawish crossing is a meaningful advantage.
The Beach
Orange Bay's beach is one of the most iconic in Egypt — a 450-metre shallow sandbar of brilliant white sand that photographs extraordinarily well. The water is very shallow: photogenic, but you can wade for considerable distances without the water reaching your chest. Magawish Island's beaches are also white sand with turquoise water, but the lagoon offers more varied depth — genuinely swimmable water close to the shore and better conditions for entering the reef directly. Orange Bay wins on visual spectacle; Magawish wins on actual swimming and snorkeling accessibility.
The Snorkeling
This is where Magawish has a clear advantage for serious snorkelers. The Magawish Reef is dedicated and well-documented, with over 1,000 fish species and 150 coral species recorded. Critically, Magawish receives far fewer boats per day than the Giftun reef sites — the coral is less disturbed, the fish behave more naturally, and the water is less churned up. Orange Bay's reef stops are good and inside the Giftun National Park, but they receive significantly higher daily traffic. If snorkeling quality is your primary criterion, Magawish Island is the stronger choice.
The Crowd
Orange Bay is Hurghada's most visited island destination — by mid-morning on peak days, multiple large group boats have arrived and the beach is genuinely busy. Magawish Island is consistently described by guests as "quiet," "peaceful," and "not crowded" — even in high season. This is partly a function of its lower profile among mass-market tour packages, and partly a result of its slightly greater logistical complexity (the speedboat crossing is less standardised than the large Giftun ferries). For travellers who value space and quiet, Magawish is the significantly better choice.
The Price
Magawish Island tours are typically priced slightly below Orange Bay VIP options and significantly below Mahmya Island — generally in the range of €20 to €45 per adult for a full-day all-inclusive tour. This makes it one of the best-value comprehensive island day trips available from Hurghada, particularly given the snorkeling quality.
The Optional Scuba Dive
This is a feature unique to Magawish among the accessible Hurghada island options: an optional single scuba dive during the trip, typically priced at approximately $5 extra per person for a 15-minute guided dive at 5 to 7 metres depth. For first-time divers or those who want to try scuba in genuinely excellent conditions without booking a full dive course, this is an exceptional add-on.
The Verdict
Choose Magawish Island if: you want better snorkeling, a quieter beach, a shorter crossing, the optional scuba dive, and excellent value. Choose Orange Bay if: you want the most iconic, photogenic shallow sandbar beach in Egypt and are comfortable with a busier, more social atmosphere.
Magawish Island Weather and Best Time to Visit
Magawish Island sits 7.5 kilometres southeast of Hurghada in the Red Sea — close enough to make it one of the fastest island crossings available from any Hurghada resort (typically 15 to 30 minutes by...
What makes this tour special:
- Magawish Island — only 7.5 km from Hurghada, just 15–30 minutes by boat
- Snorkel the famous Magawish Reef — one of the most vibrant coral sites near Hurghada
- Two dedicated snorkeling stops at different reef sites with 1,000+ documented species
Full Day Itinerary: Your Magawish Island Trip Hour by Hour
- Hotel pickup from all Hurghada, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay & Soma Bay resorts
- Transfer to Hurghada Marina (Tito's Marina or main marina depending on operator)
- Board the yacht — departure toward Magawish Island
- First snorkeling stop at a coral reef en route — parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish (approx. 1 hour)
- Buffet lunch served on board — salads, rice, pasta, grilled chicken, fish & unlimited soft drinks
- Arrival at Magawish Island — beach time, swimming in the lagoon (approx. 1.5–2 hours)
- Optional: scuba diving (single guided dive, approx. 15 min at 5–7 metres — small extra charge)
- Optional: banana boat ride, kayaking or other water sports (extra charge)
- Second snorkeling stop at Magawish Reef — different coral formations and marine species (approx. 1 hour)
- Return cruise to Hurghada Marina
- Transfer back to your hotel — approx. 16:00–17:00
Tips for Booking and Getting the Best from Your Magawish Island Tour
Magawish Island sits 7.5 kilometres southeast of Hurghada in the Red Sea — close enough to make it one of the fastest island crossings available from any Hurghada resort (typically 15 to 30 minutes by...
What makes this tour special:
- Magawish Island — only 7.5 km from Hurghada, just 15–30 minutes by boat
- Snorkel the famous Magawish Reef — one of the most vibrant coral sites near Hurghada
- Two dedicated snorkeling stops at different reef sites with 1,000+ documented species
Magawish Island vs Other Hurghada Island Trips — Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Magawish Island (This Tour) | Orange Bay / Giftun West | Mahmya Island / Giftun East | Eden Island |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance from Hurghada | 7.5 km — 15–30 min crossing | 10–12 km — 45 min crossing | 10–12 km — 60 min crossing | 10–15 km — 45–60 min crossing |
| Island size | ~850,000 m² — one of the largest | Part of Giftun Island | Small managed eco-beach | Moderate size |
| Beach type | Natural white sand — quiet, swimmable | 450m shallow sandbar — iconic photos | Compact eco-beach, deep entry | White sand, cabanas & bean bags |
| Crowd level | Low — consistently quiet | High — busy by mid-morning | Very low — strictly limited | Moderate |
| Reef quality | Excellent — Magawish Reef, 1000+ species | Good — national park reef | Excellent — Sabina Reef | Good — Coral Garden + Sabina Reef |
| Snorkeling from beach | Yes — lagoon entry | No — boat only | Yes — direct lagoon entry | Yes — Coral Garden entry |
| Optional scuba dive | Yes — $5 extra, 15 min guided dive | No | Yes — full dive centre | No |
| Dolphin sightings | Occasional — crossing & reef | Occasional — crossing | Occasional — crossing | Occasional — crossing |
| Turtle / ray sightings | Occasional — Magawish Reef | Occasional | Occasional — Sabina Reef | Occasional |
| Includes lunch | Yes — buffet on board | Yes — most packages | Yes — beach restaurant | Yes — buffet on board |
| Price range (adult) | ~€20–45 — best value | ~€20–40 — accessible | ~€55–85 — premium | ~€25–50 — accessible |
| Best for | Snorkelers, quiet seekers, value | Photo lovers, social vibe | Couples, premium seekers | Families, beginners, balance |
Highlights
- ✓Magawish Island — only 7.5 km from Hurghada, just 15–30 minutes by boat
- ✓Snorkel the famous Magawish Reef — one of the most vibrant coral sites near Hurghada
- ✓Two dedicated snorkeling stops at different reef sites with 1,000+ documented species
- ✓Quiet, uncrowded beach atmosphere — significantly less busy than Giftun Island or Orange Bay
- ✓All-inclusive: hotel transfers, boat, snorkeling equipment, buffet lunch & unlimited soft drinks
- ✓Optional scuba diving during the trip — a single guided dive for a small additional charge
- ✓Beginner-safe: calm, clear water with guide support throughout both snorkeling sessions
- ✓Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure
Schedule
- •Hotel pickup from all Hurghada, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay & Soma Bay resorts
- •Transfer to Hurghada Marina (Tito's Marina or main marina depending on operator)
- •Board the yacht — departure toward Magawish Island
- •First snorkeling stop at a coral reef en route — parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish (approx. 1 hour)
- •Buffet lunch served on board — salads, rice, pasta, grilled chicken, fish & unlimited soft drinks
- •Arrival at Magawish Island — beach time, swimming in the lagoon (approx. 1.5–2 hours)
- •Optional: scuba diving (single guided dive, approx. 15 min at 5–7 metres — small extra charge)
- •Optional: banana boat ride, kayaking or other water sports (extra charge)
- •Second snorkeling stop at Magawish Reef — different coral formations and marine species (approx. 1 hour)
- •Return cruise to Hurghada Marina
- •Transfer back to your hotel — approx. 16:00–17:00
Tour Details
Duration
Full day (approx. 7–8 hours including transfers)
Departure
Approx. 08:00–09:00 AM hotel pickup — departure time confirmed the day before
Return
Approx. 16:00–17:00 back to your hotel
Suitable For
All ages — families, couples, beginners, non-swimmers, experienced snorkelers
Skill Level
No experience needed — calm water, life vests, guide support throughout
Group Size
Shared yacht tours and private speedboat options available
Wildlife
Magawish Reef
Probability: Guaranteed
The Magawish Reef is the signature snorkeling site of the island and one of the most biodiverse coral reef systems accessible on a day trip from Hurghada. Over 1,000 species of fish and 150 species of coral have been documented in the surrounding waters. Because Magawish receives significantly lower boat traffic than the Giftun Island reef sites, the coral is in notably better condition and the marine behaviour is less disturbed. Parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish, surgeonfish, moray eels, and occasional rays are regularly encountered at both snorkeling stops.
Magawish Island Beach & Lagoon
Probability: Guaranteed
Magawish Island's beach is consistently described by visitors as one of the most naturally beautiful on the Egyptian Red Sea coast — fine white sand, warm shallow turquoise water, and a calm lagoon atmosphere that is noticeably quieter than the busier Giftun Island clubs. The island has beach facilities, a restaurant, and bar, but retains a natural, unhurried character that distinguishes it from more commercialised Red Sea island destinations.
Price Includes
- ✓Return hotel transfer from all hotels in Hurghada.
- ✓Scenic Red Sea yacht or speedboat crossing to Magawish Island and back
- ✓Two guided snorkeling stops at separate coral reef sites — including Magawish Reef
- ✓Full snorkeling equipment: mask, fins & life vest (sanitised between uses)
- ✓Approximately 1.5–2 hours beach time on Magawish Island
- ✓Buffet lunch on board — soft drinks
- ✓Unlimited soft drinks, water, tea and coffee throughout the day
- ✓Professional guide support in the water during both snorkeling sessions
Not Included
- ✗Professional underwater photography package (available on request from some operators)
- ✗Personal spending and tips
- ✗Pickup from outside the main Hurghada resort area (El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Makadi Bay & Soma Bay hotels
What to Bring
- •Swimwear and a beach towel
- •Reef-safe sunscreen — standard sunscreen is harmful to coral and may not be permitted
- •Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed sun hat — the beach and boat deck are fully exposed
- •Waterproof camera or GoPro for reef and beach photography
- •A light layer or windbreaker for the boat crossing — especially November through March
- •Water shoes (optional — useful at reef entry points and on rocky sections of the island)
- •Cash for the optional scuba dive, water sports, alcoholic drinks, and tips
- •Seasickness remedy if you are sensitive — the open sea crossing is short but can be choppy in winter
Important Notes
- ⚠️Apply reef-safe sunscreen at least 30 minutes before entering the water — standard sunscreen harms coral
- ⚠️Snorkeling equipment is sanitised between uses — bring your own if you prefer
- ⚠️The optional scuba dive is available during the trip for a small additional charge — no certification required
- ⚠️Pickup time is confirmed the day before — allow flexibility from 08:00 AM onward
- ⚠️A light jacket or layer is recommended for the boat crossing in winter months (Dec–Feb)
- ⚠️Non-swimmers are fully accommodated — calm, shallow water and life vests throughout
- ⚠️National park or environmental access fees may apply — confirm at booking if included
- ⚠️Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure
Optional Extras
Private Speedboat to Magawish Island
Upgrade from the shared group yacht to a private speedboat for your group. The crossing drops to approximately 15 minutes, the boat is entirely yours, and you can set the pace of the day more flexibly. Ideal for couples, families, and groups of 4 to 8 who want a more intimate Magawish Island experience. Book in advance — private speedboat availability is limited on peak-season dates.
FAQs
Where is Magawish Island and how do you get there from Hurghada?
Magawish Island is located 7.5 kilometres southeast of Hurghada in the Red Sea. It is one of the closest island destinations accessible on a day trip from Hurghada — the speedboat crossing takes just 15 to 30 minutes, and the standard yacht crossing takes 30 to 45 minutes. The island is accessible exclusively by boat as part of an organised day trip. All tour packages include the return boat transfer and hotel pickup from Hurghada and surrounding areas.
Which is the best island to visit in Hurghada?
The best island in Hurghada depends on your priorities. Magawish Island is the best choice for snorkeling quality, a quiet atmosphere, a shorter crossing, and the best value for money. Orange Bay has the most photogenic beach. Mahmya Island is the most exclusive and premium option. For families who want an accessible, all-round great day on the Red Sea, Magawish Island consistently receives the highest marks for the combination of reef quality, beach, and crowd levels.
What is the best time to visit Magawish Island?
The best time to visit Magawish Island is between October and April. During these months, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, the sea is calm, and underwater visibility is at its peak — ideal conditions for snorkeling and beach time. May and September are good transitional months. June through August is the hottest period (35°C+) — snorkeling conditions remain excellent but the beach can be intensely hot. A hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and regular hydration are essential in summer. The Magawish reef is accessible year-round.
Is Magawish Island better than Orange Bay?
For snorkeling, yes — the Magawish Reef is one of the finest accessible from Hurghada, with 1,000+ fish species and significantly less boat traffic than the Giftun Island sites. Magawish is also quieter, closer (shorter crossing), and better value. For the most famous, photogenic beach — the shallow sandbar with iconic turquoise water — Orange Bay is the stronger visual experience. The two islands suit different types of traveller: Magawish for reef lovers, Orange Bay for beach photographers.
What is there to do at Magawish Island?
Activities at Magawish Island include: snorkeling at two separate reef sites (the Magawish Reef is one of the best near Hurghada), swimming in the calm beach lagoon, relaxing on the white sand beach, an optional single scuba dive (approx. $5 extra — guided, 15 minutes, 5–7 metres depth), optional banana boat rides and kayaking, and eating a buffet lunch on board the yacht. The atmosphere is unhurried — the day works equally well as an active snorkeling adventure or a relaxed beach day.
Can I go scuba diving at Magawish Island?
Yes — this is one of Magawish Island's distinctive features. An optional single guided scuba dive is available during the trip for a small additional charge (typically around $5 per person). The dive lasts approximately 15 minutes at 5 to 7 metres depth. All equipment is provided. No certification is required. This is one of the most accessible introductions to scuba diving available on any Hurghada island tour.
What is the Magawish Island weather like throughout the year?
Magawish Island has a desert climate typical of the Egyptian Red Sea coast: sunny and warm year-round with very little rainfall. Summer (June–August) temperatures reach 35–40°C on the beach with water temperatures of 28–30°C. Winter (December–February) is mild at 20–25°C air temperature and 22–24°C water temperature — a light rash vest is recommended. The best weather for comfortable outdoor activities is October to April, with temperatures of 20–30°C and calm sea conditions.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours before the tour departure. Please contact us as soon as possible if your plans change.
Payment Options
EUR (€)
Euro - Our primary currency
USD ($)
US Dollars - Accepted worldwide
GBP (£)
British Pounds - For our UK guests
Currency Conversion
We accept multiple currencies. The final price is based on the current exchange rate at the time of booking. All prices are calculated at the official daily rate for your protection.
Payment Methods
- Credit/Debit Card
- PayPal
- Cash on Arrival
- Bank Transfer
Ready to book?
Click below to start booking
Booking Information
- ✓ Instant confirmation
- ✓ Free cancellation (48h)
- ✓ Book without visa - Secure your spot and pay upon arrival
- ✓ English & German-speaking guide