Magawish Island

Just offshore from Hurghada, Magawish is a low, sandy island rimmed with shallow coral gardens — the kind of easy, forgiving reef that makes a first snorkel unforgettable. Boats moor in the lee, and within a few fin-kicks you're gliding over hard-coral heads busy with butterflyfish, parrotfish and the occasional grazing turtle.

Because the water stays shallow and calm, it's a favourite stop on three-island day trips and a relaxed dive site for those building confidence. Expect warm, clear visibility, drifting shoals of glassfish, and long stretches of sunlit sand flat where you can simply float. Bring a mask and let the reef do the rest.