sharm el sheikh travel guide
Sharm El Sheikh is one of Egypt’s most iconic tourist destinations, and for good reason. Sitting on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Gulf of Suez, it combines world-class Red Sea diving with desert adventures, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious beach resorts in a way that few destinations anywhere in the world can match.
This guide covers everything you need to know before your visit: the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, when to go, and the practical tips that make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.
Where Is Sharm El Sheikh?
Sharm El Sheikh is located on the southern coast of the Sinai Peninsula, approximately 500 km southeast of Cairo. It lies between the Gulf of Aqaba to the east and the Gulf of Suez to the west, giving it access to some of the most vibrant coral reef systems in the world.
The name “Sharm El Sheikh” translates literally as “Bay of the Sheikh” in Arabic — a reflection of its coastal character and historical significance as a trading and fishing port before its transformation into a world-class resort city from the 1980s onward.
What Sharm El Sheikh Is Famous For
Sharm El Sheikh earned its global reputation primarily through its extraordinary underwater world. The Red Sea along Sinai’s coastline hosts some of the most biodiverse coral reef systems anywhere on Earth, with water visibility regularly exceeding 30 meters and a marine life catalogue that includes reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse, sea turtles, and hundreds of species of tropical fish.
Beyond diving, Sharm is known for:
- Sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, from the busy shores of Naama Bay to the quieter coves of Shark’s Bay
- Desert safaris and Bedouin experiences in the Sinai interior
- Vibrant nightlife centered on Naama Bay and SOHO Square
- Proximity to sacred and historical sites: Mount Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery are both within day-trip distance
- Luxury all-inclusive resorts alongside budget-friendly guesthouses, catering to every type of traveler
Top Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
Diving and Snorkeling
This is the main event. Sharm El Sheikh offers some of the finest diving in the world, with sites suitable for every level from complete beginner to experienced technical diver.
Ras Mohammed National Park — about 12 km from the city, this is the flagship diving destination: extraordinary reef walls, strong currents bringing pelagic life, and the famous Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef. Many diving instructors consider it among the best dive sites in the world.
Tiran Island — at the entrance to the Straits of Tiran, with four major reef systems (Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, and Gordon) that consistently deliver spectacular reef diving and the chance to see large pelagic species.
The SS Thistlegorm — a World War II British merchant vessel sunk in 1941, now one of the most celebrated wreck dives in the world. Lying at around 30 meters, the wreck contains military trucks, motorcycles, aircraft parts, and train wagons — a genuinely extraordinary dive.
Ras Um Sid — one of the best shore dives near the city, with accessible entry and impressive coral gardens. Suitable for beginners and snorkelers as well as more experienced divers.
For non-divers, glass-bottom boat trips and submarine excursions offer spectacular views of the coral without getting wet.
Desert Safari and Bedouin Experiences
The Sinai desert surrounding Sharm El Sheikh is extraordinary in its own right — dramatic mountains, ancient wadis, and a silence that contrasts completely with the resort atmosphere at the coast. Desert excursions include:
- Quad bike and ATV safaris through the desert landscape, with sunset timing giving spectacular light
- Jeep (4×4) safari with a Bedouin guide through remote valleys and canyons
- Camel rides at sunset — a slower, more traditional way to experience the terrain
- Bedouin camp dinner and stargazing — the Sinai’s minimal light pollution makes the night sky genuinely extraordinary; several operators offer telescope-assisted stargazing as part of an overnight desert experience
- The Colored Canyon — a stunning narrow canyon with multicolored sandstone walls, accessible as a day trip from Sharm
Boat Trips and Water Sports
- Yacht and speedboat trips to nearby islands and dive sites
- Parasailing over the Red Sea — one of the most popular adrenaline activities
- Kayaking along the coastline
- Dolphin-watching excursions (Dolphina Park and offshore spots)
- Submarine tours for a dry underwater experience
- Aqua parks suitable for families with children
Day Trips from Sharm El Sheikh
Mount Sinai — a sacred mountain where Prophet Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments. The summit hike (typically starting at 2 AM to catch sunrise from the 2,285-meter peak) is one of the most memorable experiences in Egypt. The classic route takes 2–3 hours up and 1.5–2 hours down.
St. Catherine’s Monastery — one of the oldest continuously operating Christian monasteries in the world, built in the 6th century at the foot of Mount Sinai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Usually combined with the Sinai hike in a single overnight excursion.
Dahab — a relaxed beach town about 85 km north of Sharm, known for the legendary Blue Hole dive site, the Canyon, and a laid-back atmosphere. Easily visited as a day trip.
Cairo day trip — Sharm El Sheikh offers both bus (10–12 hours) and flight (approximately 1 hour) options to Cairo, making a Pyramids day trip possible, though the bus journey is arduous for a single day. The flight option, while expensive, is far more comfortable for travelers wanting to see the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum on a tight schedule.
For a seamless connection between Sharm El Sheikh and Egypt’s historical sites, see our guides to the Pyramids of Giza and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Top Tourist Spots in the City
Naama Bay — the heart of Sharm El Sheikh: a crescent-shaped bay lined with restaurants, cafés, dive centers, hotels, and shops. The beach itself has calm, shallow water ideal for swimming and watersports. By night it transforms into the city’s main nightlife hub.
SOHO Square — a large open-air entertainment complex with restaurants, an ice rink, bowling alley, ice bar, dancing fountains, performance stage, and fairground rides. Particularly atmospheric at night when the fountains are lit up. One of the best family evening options in the city.
Old Market (Sharm El Maya) — the original settlement area, with a lively traditional market selling souvenirs, spices, clothing, and Bedouin crafts. Prices here are lower than in Naama Bay, and bargaining is expected and enjoyable. Best visited in the evening when the atmosphere is most lively.
Shark’s Bay — a quieter, more sheltered beach north of Naama Bay, popular with snorkelers for its accessible reef and with travelers seeking a calmer atmosphere than the main tourist strip.
Ras Um Sid — a headland south of Naama Bay with excellent shore diving and a beach popular with divers and snorkelers.
Sharm El Maya Bay — the calm, sandy beach near the Old Market area, good for families and those wanting a quieter beach day.
Natural Reserves Near Sharm El Sheikh
Ras Mohammed National Park — established in 1983 as Egypt’s first protected area. Located about 12 km from the city at the very tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Home to the most spectacular coral reefs in the Sharm area, as well as mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and diverse birdlife. Entry requires a permit fee (included in most dive and snorkeling excursions).
Nabq Protected Area — located about 20 km north of Sharm El Sheikh, Nabq protects one of the northernmost mangrove forests in the world and a stretch of beautiful coastline. Excellent for birdwatching (ospreys, herons, spoonbills) and peaceful coastal walks, with far fewer visitors than Ras Mohammed.
Abu Galum Protectorate — located between Sharm El Sheikh and Taba near Dahab, combining rugged mountains, Red Sea coastline, and coral reefs. Known among experienced divers and eco-adventurers for its pristine, less-visited marine environment.
Nearby Historical and Cultural Sites
St. Catherine’s Monastery — one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries, built in 527 CE under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. Houses an extraordinary library, rare icons, and the Burning Bush. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mount Sinai (Gebel Musa) — the 2,285-meter peak sacred in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The 3 AM pre-sunrise hike is one of Egypt’s most memorable experiences, combining spiritual significance with spectacular desert and mountain scenery.
Al Sahaba Mosque — one of the most architecturally striking buildings in Sharm El Sheikh, with a large white dome and minarets visible across the city.
Sharm El Sheikh Museum — displays artifacts from ancient Egyptian civilization, providing historical context to a city otherwise focused on the contemporary.
Where to Eat in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm’s dining scene covers everything from casual seafood shacks to international restaurant chains:
- Fares Seafood — consistently recommended as one of the best seafood restaurants in the city, with fresh fish priced by weight
- The Grill — popular for steaks and grilled dishes
- Pomodoro — Italian cuisine in Naama Bay
- Hard Rock Cafe — American food and a lively atmosphere, popular with international visitors
- Dananeer Restaurant — resort dining with sea views
- Local Egyptian food — koshari (a hearty lentil, rice and pasta dish), ful medames (fava beans), and fresh-baked flatbread are widely available at budget-friendly local restaurants away from the main tourist strip
Where to Stay in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm has Egypt’s highest concentration of international resort hotels, from budget guesthouses to five-star all-inclusive properties.
3-Star Hotels: Falcon Naama Star, Luna Sharm, Falcon Hills, Naama Blue, Oasis Reef
4-Star Hotels: JAZ Sharm Dreams, JAZ Fayrouz, Novotel, DoubleTree by Hilton, Pickalbatros Aqua Blu, Renaissance Golden View Beach Resort, Sheraton Sharm, Park Regency, Mövenpick
Upscale choices: Baron Palms Resort (adults-only boutique), Meraki Resort (infinity pool, direct Red Sea views), Sunrise Montemare Grand Select (large all-inclusive with private beach)
Most large Sharm hotels are all-inclusive, which suits many visitors well — the resort strips are self-contained, and having food and drinks included removes the need to leave the property for meals.
Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh has year-round sunshine and genuinely warm weather in every month, but conditions vary significantly:
Spring (March–May): Ideal shoulder season. Temperatures 25–32°C, water warming from 22–26°C, calm seas, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. Peak visibility for diving (often exceeding 30 meters).
Summer (June–August): Very hot (35–45°C daily), lower hotel rates, and fewer European tourists. Best morning and evening activities; midday beach time can be uncomfortable in July–August. Water temperature at its warmest (28–30°C).
Autumn (September–November): The other ideal shoulder season — warm days (28–35°C), excellent water temperatures, and crowds thinning after the European summer. Many experienced Sharm visitors consider October the single best month to visit.
Winter (December–February): Mild and pleasant for land activities (20–25°C days), cooler evenings requiring a light jacket, water around 22°C. European peak season (particularly December–January) with higher prices and fuller hotels.
Bottom line: Avoid midsummer if heat is a concern. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather, prices, and crowds. Winter is genuinely pleasant if you don’t mind the crowds and higher prices.
Practical Tips Before You Go
Visa: Most nationalities can obtain a free Sinai-only entry stamp on arrival, valid for 15 days and covering Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, and St. Catherine’s/Mount Sinai — but NOT Cairo or the rest of Egypt. If you plan to visit Cairo or any other Egyptian city, you’ll need a full Egyptian visa (available on arrival for most nationalities for $25 USD, or via an e-visa beforehand).
Currency: Egyptian Pounds (EGP) are the local currency. ATMs are widely available. Cash is preferred for markets, taxis, and smaller transactions; cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.
Tipping: Standard practice in Egypt. 10–15% in restaurants, small tips for guides, hotel staff, and taxi drivers are expected.
Dress code: Sharm is a resort city and Western swimwear is perfectly appropriate on the beach and at hotel pools. Cover up modestly when visiting markets, mosques, and the Old Market area.
Safety: Sharm El Sheikh is generally considered safe for tourists, with the resort strip well-monitored. For desert excursions, always book organized tours with licensed operators rather than going independently.
Getting to Sharm: Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) is approximately 10–15 minutes from Naama Bay. Direct international flights from Europe are available seasonally; year-round connections via Cairo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sharm El Sheikh best known for? World-class Red Sea diving and snorkeling, beautiful beaches, desert safaris, and vibrant nightlife — particularly in Naama Bay.
Is Sharm El Sheikh safe? Yes, Sharm is generally considered safe for tourists. The resort strip is well-monitored and popular year-round with international visitors.
How far is Sharm El Sheikh from Cairo? Approximately 500 km, reachable by bus (8–10 hours), by car (around 6 hours), or by flight (around 1 hour).
Can you visit the Pyramids from Sharm El Sheikh? Yes, but it requires either a day flight to Cairo and back (expensive but feasible) or a long overnight bus journey (10–12 hours each way). Most travelers visiting both book multi-day Egypt itineraries rather than day trips.
Do I need a full Egyptian visa for Sharm El Sheikh? Not if you’re staying only in the Sinai-only zone (Sharm, Dahab, St. Catherine’s). For Cairo or any other Egyptian destination, a full visa is required.
When is the best time to visit? Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures, excellent water conditions, and manageable crowd levels.
Is Sharm El Sheikh good for families? Yes — many hotels are explicitly designed for families, with aqua parks, kids’ clubs, shallow beach areas, and glass-bottom boat options that don’t require swimming or diving.
Final Thoughts
Sharm El Sheikh doesn’t try to be subtle about what it is: a purpose-built resort city designed to deliver sun, sea, coral reefs, and nightlife with maximum efficiency. Within those parameters, it delivers exceptionally well. The diving is genuinely world-class, the beaches are beautiful, the hotel infrastructure is some of the most developed in the Middle East, and the ease of adding desert or historical excursions means even a single week here can encompass an extraordinary range of experiences.
For travelers visiting Egypt primarily for ancient history, Sharm works best as a relaxing add-on at the end of a Luxor and Cairo itinerary. For beach and diving lovers, it can easily be the whole trip.
🤿️ Planning a trip to Sharm El Sheikh or a combined Egypt itinerary? Pure Nile Tours offers private guided tours combining Red Sea activities with Egypt’s ancient sites. Explore Egypt Private Tours → https://pureniletours.com/egypt-private-tours
