Giftun Islands

The Giftun group lies a short boat ride off Hurghada and is part of a protected area, two main islands of bare desert rock rimmed with reef and, at the southern end, a series of sand spits that have become the standard destination for day boats, above all Mahmya and the beach on Giftun Kebir. The reefs are good for snorkelling in the shallows, with hard coral, anthias and reef fish, and there are dive sites around the drop-offs on the outer sides. The islands themselves are protected for nesting seabirds, so landing is restricted to designated beaches. Boats leave the marina in the morning in numbers and return in the late afternoon, which makes the middle of the day busy and the edges quiet.

What you actually see

• White sand spits - the beaches at the southern end of the group.
• Fringing reef snorkelling - shallow coral straight off the boat.
• Seabird nesting areas - protected ground where landing is not allowed.
• Outer drop-offs - the dive sites on the seaward sides.

When to go

October to May for comfort, though trips run year round. Early boats get the best water before the wind rises and before the fleet arrives. A full day. Windy days are cancelled or rough on the crossing.

Honest expectations

The main beaches are crowded with day boats and the experience is nothing like a deserted island. Landing fees at private beach concessions come on top of the trip price and are not always disclosed. Reef damage from anchors and swimmers is visible. Choose an operator that briefs on not touching coral.

Nearby

Hurghada is the departure point; Abu Ramada and other reefs lie nearby.