Sharm el Sheikh is a little slice of paradise on Egypt’s Red Sea with world-famous diving spots, sandy beaches and year-round sunshine. It’s hugely popular with Europeans (especially Brits) - and there’s lots of excursions, activities and day trips on offer. Sharm el-Sheikh, commonly shortened to Sharm, is a popular holiday destination for Egypt tours. Sharm El Sheikh is also referred to as "the city of peace" as a result of the great number of international conferences on peace held there due to the city's close proximity to a number of important Middle Eastern nations and its opulent lodgings.
I’m a travel planner living for over a decade in Egypt, and I’ve visited Sharm el Sheikh numerous times with friends, clients and family. And this is my ultimate local’s guide to the best this sunny resort town has to offer.
Sharm el Sheikh is on Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula - and it’s purely a resort town built up entirely for sun-seeking tourist. Sharm is lined with some spectacular resorts, rugged national parks and Sinai desert landscapes. It also has some world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. Sharm el Sheikh also offers a glimpse at Egypt’s bedouins - the nomadic tribes of people who call the Sinai home.
Ready to plan your itinerary? Here’s my ultimate list of the best things you shouldn’t miss in Sharm.
1. Explore Ras Muhammad National Park
Ras Mohammed National Park can be listed as one of your top attractions in Sharm El Sheikh. It is located in Egypt, at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. The majority (about 133 square miles) of the park is marine, in addition to two islands off the peninsula. Ras Mohammed National Park is mostly known for the coastal sights of the magnificent Red Sea reef and crystal-clear blue water. The park's protected area has a mangrove forest, mountains, wadis, sand dunes, and other landscapes, which enable you to shoot amazingly pristine pictures. As a wonderful underwater paradise, the Red Sea Reef area of the park is home to hundreds of species of coral and is inhabited by over 1000 species of marine life, such as starfish and green turtles.
Read also: Detailed Review: Jaz Belvedere
Head to the park’s Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef for vibrantly colorful reefs - and the best diving in the city. And don’t miss Jackfish Alley for jackfish schools and gorgeous coral formations. The Thistlegorm was a British cargo ship sunk by German bombers during World War II.
A stop at White Island is often included in day trips to Ras Muhammad. And this beautiful island (nestled between the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba) is a breathtaking spot for swimming and snorkeling. It does get crowded, however, so book your excursion ahead of time.
Ras Muhammad National Park also offers a campsite that boasts serene beaches, birdlife, a mangrove forest and a saltwater lake. It’s all set amid the rugged cliffs of the Sinai.
2. Have dinner at Soho Square
Soho Square is a sleek and modern entertainment complex that offers great restaurants and cafes along with bowling, ice skating and a fun Kids Zone. Soho Square is also a great option for families with kids - there’s lots to keep the young ones entertained. It’s clean and well-organized and (best of all) there’s zero of the hassle and aggressive shopkeepers that you’ll often find at other Sharm markets (like Naama Bay!).
There’s also a little souq called the Khan el Khalili Bazaar where you can pick up Egyptian souvenirs from King Tut figurines to spices. Restaurants range from fast food joints to fine dining. And the shisha lounges and cafes really come alive at night when crowds gather to shop and watch the dancing fountains.
Read also: Read our review of Grand Oasis Resort
3. Unwind at Ras Um Sid
Ras Um Sid is arguably the prettiest beach in a resort town that’s known for pretty beaches. It’s a snorkeler’s paradise with a reef full of colorful fish in calm waters. And it’s very beginner-friendly too: you can spot lots of marine life just swimming with a pair of goggles.
Ras Um Sid is quieter than some of Sharm el Sheikh’s more rowdy attractions. And it’s popular with families - especially if you have children who want to try out water activities. Don’t miss the clifftop Farsha Cafe with its boho Egyptian decor and sweeping views. It’s especially magical at night when the cliff is lit up by colorful lanterns.
4. Visit Al Sahaba Mosque
This contemporary mosque (inaugurated in 2017) is already a Red Sea icon thanks to its bold lavish design and 76-meter minarets. Towering above the old market in Sharm el Sheikh, the mosque gives the beach holiday crowd a chance to add some culture to their itinerary. Al Sahaba is a mix of Fatimid, Mamluk and Ottoman styles - and it makes a striking impression with its ornate facade and painted domes.
The mosque welcomes tourists and has imams fluent in English and French. It’s an easy stop on your shopping trip to the nearby Old Market souq. And it looks beautiful illuminated at night.
5. Relax at your hotel beach
Unwind at your own beach resort and enjoy all your hotel’s amenities for the effortless vacation that Sharm is known for. Resorts in Sharm el Sheikh offer all inclusive options where all your meals are provided for and served on site. A team of staff is always ready with drinks, towels, umbrellas and anything else you need.
Read also: Detailed Review: Reef Oasis Beach
Many resorts have their own stretch of beach that’s easily accessible from your room. And you’ll often spot colorful Red Sea fish just standing in the water. Many resorts offer activities like morning yoga, kids games and cooking classes - along with nightly entertainment like karaoke and dancing. There are often on-site spas. And you can easily book any water sports or excursions at reception.
All this means you can easily spend your entire vacation in a chilled-out routine that goes from beach to dining room to balcony to bed. I’ve done it and it’s heavenly.
6. Diving and Snorkeling
Sharm el Sheikh is often considered one of the best diving sites in the world - so you’ll be in expert hands. Diving centers offer anything from shipwreck dives to beginner-friendly snorkeling excursions. Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the world’s top diving destinations. Its clear Red Sea waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life make it perfect for both beginners and experienced divers.
Some resorts have jetties where you can walk down to spot colorful fish in deeper waters. Take a glass bottom boat for the easiest way to see colorful reefs and dazzling fish. For the more ambitious, sign up for a course to get PADI certified.
If you’re weary (like me) of plunging deep into the waters weighed down by metal tanks, then try snorkeling! Book a snorkeling trip and a boat will take you to some incredible snorkeling spots where you’ll see just as much marine life as the divers (all in the comfort of your lightweight goggles).
Top dive sites: Ras Mohammed National Park, Tiran Island, and Ras Um Sid reef offer colorful corals, tropical fish, and even chances to see sharks or dolphins.
7. Sharm el-Sheikh Museum
Other highlights include a statue head of Queen Hatshepsut and exhibits on Sinai culture and ancient solar boats. But it’s full of treasures that give you a great overview of Ancient Egypt - without having to go far from the beach. And the museum is open until 11pm - so it’s a great thing to do in Sharm El Sheikh at night.
8. Take a desert safari
Book a desert safari to take in the rugged Sinai landscapes, drink tea over a bonfire and experience the region’s unique Bedouin culture. Go dirt biking in the desert or book an ATV trip (through your hotel’s reception) to take in Sharm’s unspoiled mountain landscapes and the vastness of the sandy roads.
Or take a rollicking Jeep ride through the bumpy terrain and catch the sunset in the desert. Then arrive at a Bedouin camp for dinner and some traditional dancing. A day-trip to the Sinai Desert is a completely different side of Sharm el-Sheikh, offering adventure and culture in one outing. You can ride quad bikes over rugged dunes, take a more traditional camel ride, and explore the desert landscape.
9. Shop for local handicrafts
Shop for local handicrafts at Sharm’s Old Market, a local souq with shisha cafes and traditional Egyptian handicrafts at bargain prices. Sharm Old Market is an important part of the Old Town and a less-visited tourist attraction in Sharm El Sheikh. Sharm Old Market will give you a distinctive feeling as you experience the local lifestyle and Egyptian culture.
The Old Market is a great place to dig into some authentic Egyptian street food - you’ll find lots of local cafes and eateries in the area. Head to Soho Square or Naama Bay for more upscale and designer shopping.
10. Take a day trip to Saint Catherine
Take a day trip to hike Egypt’s famous Mount Sinai, where it’s believed Moses received the 10 commandments (think rugged landscapes, a beautiful sunrise and an ancient monastery). Trips to Mount Sinai usually start in the late evening from Sharm El Sheikh. You’ll be picked up from your hotel for the 3-hour bus ride into the desert. Then you’ll take a 3-hour climb up the mountain just in time to catch the sunrise from the summit.
It’s a packed and tiring itinerary - but so worth it! Camping at the top of Mount Sinai (if you have time) is another option for the more adventurous. And don’t miss the beautiful Saint Catherine Monastery at the foot of the mountain, where monks still live spiritual and simple lives. The 6th-century Greek orthodox monastery is one of the oldest in the world.
11. Naama Bay
Naama Bay lies in the northern part of Sharm El Sheikh and is considered the "downtown" of the city. Naama Bay features a long stretch of soft sandy beach and shallow seas with few corals, making it an excellent recreational zone for sunbathing and all sorts of watersports with children. The sparkling clear gentle waters and abundant sunshine can help travelers wind down during a busy trip. It’s especially beautiful and bustling at night. But it definitely isn’t for everybody with its noise, haggling and pushy shopkeepers (head to Soho Square for a more relaxed option).
Abou El Sid in Naama Bay is definitely worth a stop if you want to try some authentic local Egyptian cuisine. And there’s some nice rooftop bars and pubs if you need a good drink.
12. Take a day trip to Dahab
Dahab is a small town in the Sinai known for its boho hippie vibes - and it’s a world-renowned spot for windsurfing and diving with nearly perfect year-round conditions. And it’s all just an hour-long drive from Sharm. Dahab is a backpacker favorite that’s now gaining in popularity. But it hasn’t lost its rugged charm with lots of nature and coast lines to explore.
Dahab also has some gorgeous beaches like the Blue Hole, a favorite diving and snorkeling spot. The nearby Blue Lagoon is a sheltered natural pond with striking blue water enclosed by rugged Sinai mountains.
13. Unwind at Shark’s Bay
Shark’s Bay is an upscale resort area with sandy beaches, beginner-friendly snorkeling and some of Sharm’s most luxurious resorts. If your resort is at Shark’s Bay, you’ll enjoy the easy snorkeling, immaculate beach areas and restaurants right on the shore. Shark’s Bay is also adjacent to the high-end Soho Square, a small complex that’s home to some of the best restaurants and shopping in town.
14. Explore the Colored Canyon
The Colored Canyon is a maze of rock formations with colorful swirls in the Sinai desert about a 2.5-hour drive from Sharm. The surreal formations and hues make the Colored Canyon one of the most beautiful hikes in Egypt. A day trip from Sharm to the Colored Canyon is often combined with a visit to Dahab.
The Colored Canyon is a natural wonder with multi-colored swirls created over the millennia by wind and water. This entire area once lay under the sea and centuries of erosion created some stunning patters and shapes.
How to Pick a Resort in Sharm el Sheikh
There are around 350 different hotels and resorts in Sharm el Sheikh - ranging from party-central disco havens to adults only quiet beaches. Most resorts offer all-inclusive options. But always check the fine print to know what’s included.
You’ll get all your meals included at an all-inclusive resort. But alcoholic drinks will often cost extra. Local Egyptian beers and wines (like Stella or Omar Khayyam) are much cheaper than imported liquor brands - and they’re quite good, too.
If you’re going with family, opt for a resort with a fun swimming pool or water park nearby. If you’re looking for a romantic couples getaway or a solo trip, consider an adults-only resort or a quiet option away from the main part of town.
And read online reviews! If you find recurring complaints then just avoid the place.
Getting There: Flights, Buses and Visas
Lots of direct flights from the UK now go directly to Sharm el Sheikh. You DO NOT need a visa for Sharm el Sheikh if you’re travelling to a resort and staying up to 15 days.
And if you’re already in Egypt, you can take a domestic flight to Sharm from major cities like Cairo, Luxor and Aswan. Both Air Cairo and EgyptAir have daily flights. If you’re on a budget, take GoBus. They’re comfortable enough to sleep and fully air conditioned. But expect frequent stops at security checkpoints (and have your passport ready).
Flying is by far the easiest option and I highly recommend it over the hassles of taking a bus or hiring a private car. Once you’re in Sharm, you’ll have to haggle with the local taxi drivers because unfortunately there’s still no Uber there (and most drivers have their meters “conveniently” turned off).
If you’re flying directly into Sharm El Sheikh (ie., Sharm is your entry point into Egypt), and if you're not staying in the Sinai peninsula for more than 15 days, then certain nationalities don’t need to buy an entry visa at the airport. You'll get something called a 'Sinai Stamp' for free on your passport -- emphasis on the 'free' part, don't believe anyone at the airport who says they'll get you a stamp for the "low price" of a couple of euro - this is a scam, just ignore them and go straight to the airport official at Immigration.
Important note: this Sinai Stamp only covers the resort areas of Sinai, meaning Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba. It doesn't include any Sinai destination outside of those.
Important note #2: this Sinai stamp is only eligible for EU, UK and US citizens. If you plan to go to Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, or any other Egyptian destination outside of the Sinai peninsula on your trip, or plan to stay longer than 15 days, you’ll need to get the visa. It’s $25 upon arrival.
Is it Safe?
Egypt protects its tourist cities like geese that lay golden eggs. Both Sharm and Hurghada are well secured and safe. Tourist resorts have great security and attentive staff.
Yes. And as you drive/ride around (outside of the resorts), one of the first things you'll notice are the big concrete walls with peace signs. These are called the “peace walls,” and they’re part of a major security project by the Egyptian government.
Basically, after past security concerns, including the 2015 downing of a Russian passenger jet, authorities built a 36-kilometer (about 22-mile) barrier around Sharm el-Sheikh. The walls are a mix of concrete slabs and wire fencing, marking the resorts from the surrounding desert and mountains.
What to Wear
Sharm el Sheikh is a touristy beach resort town so beach wear, shorts and tank tops are acceptable and common. You’ll find tourists - both inside and outside their resorts - wearing shorts, skirts and strappy tops.
Best Time to Visit Sharm el Sheikh
Sharm el Sheikh is great year-round. But it’s most popular in the spring and autumn, when temperatures hover between 25-30 degrees and the water is warm. Temperatures in this period typically range between 25 and 30 °C, which is less intense than in the summer. The lack of excessive warmth and cloudless skies give most beaches good conditions for sunbathing and beach sports.
I also love Sharm in the summer when you can alternate dips in the sea with some serious tanning and defrosting in your lounge chair. Temperatures are in the upper 30s and lower 40s and it’s less crowded than in the high season.
Popular articles:
tags: #Egypt
