Off the coast of Hurghada, the Giftun Islands offer long beaches, bright shallows, and a calm setting shaped by the surrounding reef. The coastline here has a simple appeal, with clear water and low stretches of sand that draw visitors throughout the year.
Many people come early to take advantage of the still conditions and clean visibility. Motor yacht charters anchor a short distance from the beach, keeping the shoreline quiet even when the area is popular. With no permanent communities, the islands maintain a slow rhythm from morning to late afternoon.
Giftun El Kabeer and Giftun El Sagheer form the main pair. The larger island is known for its wide sandy areas, while the smaller island tends to be quieter and spaced out, appealing to those who prefer low-key time by the water.
Shallow reefs sit close to shore, which means people can easily alternate between swimming and resting without needing to travel far. Conditions are mostly predictable, so groups often plan their day around light and tides rather than structured schedules.
The stretch of sea linking Hurghada to the islands also forms part of some Middle East yacht charter routes, especially for visitors looking to add short, quiet stops to a broader coastal plan.
The beaches are straightforward and open, with pale sand and a gentle slope into the water. Many people choose the more sheltered side of the islands, where the sea stays calm and the shallows extend far from the shoreline.
Beyond the reef, the depth increases gradually, giving confident swimmers the chance to explore wider spaces. Visibility is usually excellent, which is one reason the islands remain a consistent favourite for time in the water.
This area is also a popular stop during a Red Sea yacht charter, as boats can anchor comfortably while guests explore the beach or take a swim before continuing along the coast.
Snorkelling is the most common way to experience the islands. The reefs include a mix of shapes and colours, and the shallow depth allows people to see detail with very little equipment. Guided swims take small groups to corners of the reef where fish tend to gather or where coral formations are more pronounced.
Divers find several accessible points near the outer edge of the reef. These areas offer slightly deeper channels and small drops that attract different marine life. Water clarity is steady throughout most of the year, allowing people to return during different seasons for varied experiences.
For those who prefer staying on land, the beaches offer enough space for quiet walks or time resting under light shade. Movement on the islands is simple, and the pace stays slow.
As the day progresses, people often shift to quieter areas of the beach or spend time in the water when the sun sits high. The light across the sea brightens the surface, giving the coastline a distinct clarity in the early afternoon. Boats come and go, but the atmosphere remains unhurried.
This pattern makes the islands easy to combine with time spent exploring Hurghada or visiting other coastal spots nearby.
Those interested in a luxury yacht charter often include a few hours at Giftun as part of a wider route, using the islands for swimming, rest, or a simple break between coastal points.
For help arranging these plans or aligning them with other stops along the Red Sea, speak with a yacht charter broker who can support the details of your visit.
