Hurghada to Paradise Island: Snorkeling, Lunch & Pickup

Summary

Snorkel vibrant reefs near Hurghada with lunch & island time

You’ll set off from Hurghada with hotel pickup and cruise toward Paradise Island for two guided snorkeling sessions among colorful reefs. Enjoy a fresh buffet lunch on board before relaxing on white sand beaches or swimming in turquoise water. It’s an easygoing day with local guides who know their stuff — perfect if you want both adventure and downtime by the Red Sea.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what the Red Sea actually smells like? I didn’t, until we were halfway to Paradise Island and the breeze hit — salty, but also kind of sweet, like sunscreen and watermelon. Our driver picked us up in Hurghada right on time (I was still finishing my coffee), and before I knew it, we were stepping onto this boat with maybe a dozen other people. The crew was joking around in Arabic — one guy tried to teach me how to say “mask” in Egyptian Arabic but I totally blanked. Anyway, the water looked almost fake, that clear.

The first snorkeling stop was wild. I mean, I’ve snorkeled before, but here you just drop in and suddenly there’s this whole city of fish under you — yellow ones darting around your ankles, coral that looks soft but isn’t if you touch it (don’t ask). My mask fogged up at one point and I had to laugh because everyone else seemed so graceful. The guide floated nearby pointing out things — he tapped his fingers together when he spotted a lionfish. It felt safe, even though the sea is so big it makes you feel tiny.

Lunch back on the boat was way better than I expected — grilled chicken, rice with some kind of spice I couldn’t place (cumin?), plus these little pastries that disappeared fast. People sat wherever, towels wrapped around shoulders, hair still wet. There’s something about eating outside after swimming that makes everything taste better. The sun was bright but not burning yet; someone played music quietly from their phone. After that we headed to Paradise Island itself — white sand so fine it squeaks under your feet, and honestly I just lay there for a while listening to kids laughing somewhere down the beach. Didn’t even check my phone once.

I keep thinking about floating above those reefs — how quiet it got underwater except for my own breathing. On the way back to Hurghada everyone was quieter too, maybe tired or just full of sun and saltwater. If you’re looking for a day trip from Hurghada with real snorkeling and actual downtime (plus hotel pickup so you don’t have to think), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Giftun Island snorkeling and beach day

• Hotel pickup in Hurghada
• Board boat to Paradise Island
• Snorkel at first spot
• Relax and enjoy lunch buffet
• Snorkel at second spot
• Relax on Paradise Island beach
• Return boat trip to Hurghada

Top questions

How long does the Paradise Island tour from Hurghada last?

The tour lasts about 8 hours including transfers from your hotel in Hurghada.

Is lunch included on the Giftun Island snorkeling trip?

Yes, a buffet lunch is included onboard during the tour.

Are snorkeling gear and equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is provided as part of the experience.

Is this day trip suitable for families or kids?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and children can join with adults.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible for this tour.

Do they pick up from hotels in Hurghada?

Yes, hotel pickup in Hurghada is included in the tour price.

How many snorkeling stops are there during the trip?

You’ll make two separate stops at different snorkeling spots before reaching Paradise Island.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Hurghada by air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary snorkeling gear provided onboard, two guided snorkeling sessions at different reef spots along the way to Paradise Island, a buffet lunch featuring local dishes served on the boat, plus free time to relax or swim at Paradise Island before heading back in the afternoon.