Pristine coral reefs and glitzy hotels characterise this Red Sea resort town where holiday makers dance the nights away after sun-drenched, adventure-filled days.
Dive, snorkel and sail your way across the Red Sea when you visit Sharm El Sheikh. It’s home to luxurious wellness spas and extreme sports within day-trip distance of the incredible Sinai Mountains. When it’s time to relax, laze on white sand beaches and spend leisurely hours shopping for designer souvenirs.
Take a dip in the warm waters at any time of year at this popular winter sun destination. Summer temperatures are sizzling and ideal for lazing by the pool at glamorous resorts. Expect spectacular feasts and holiday-themed events across the Christmas and New Year season at top hotels.
Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh
Naama Bay is at the heart of Sharm El Sheikh, with five-star hotels and fabulous restaurants within steps of white sand. Snorkel and swim in the clear, blue water and shop along the promenade. At neighbouring Shark Bay, shark sightings are rare but adventure on and in the water is definitely on the cards, with sports centres available to organise snorkelling gear and wakeboarding and banana boat rides.
Ras Mohamed National Park is where you’ll scuba dive with colourful coral and teeming marine life. Snorkel straight off the sand at Ras Um Sid, which is close to the national park. Nearby is the Old Market (Old Souq), fragrant with spices and filled with local handicrafts.
Take a day trip to the foot of Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine’s Monastery. It’s the world’s oldest monastery, said to be founded on the site where God appeared to Moses in the burning bush. Hike to the top of Mount Sinai from the monastery for panoramic views over the peninsula.
Outdoor activities in Sharm El Sheikh
Thrill seekers are spoilt for choice when visiting Sharm El Sheikh. Go quad biking in the desert and skydive from a helicopter. If you’re travelling with children, they’ll love the colourful slides at Aqua Blu water park. Ghibli Raceway is the place for speed demons, with go-karts to test your racing skills on the track.
From glass-bottom boat trips to sunset sailing, boat tours are a must. Island hop to Tiran Island for snorkelling and White Island for swimming on a dazzling white sand bar. Experienced divers can explore the sunken wrecks in the Gulf of Suez. Semi-submarine boats keep you dry while discovering underwater magic.
Dining and nightlife in Sharm El Sheikh
Indulge at the gourmet restaurants of Sharm El Sheikh’s luxury resorts. Try traditional snacks, such as the falafel-like, tahini-smothered patty, tamiya. The dining and entertainment hub of SOHO Square tempts your taste buds with international cuisine and chic bars for drinks afterwards. For a truly memorable meal, board a yacht for a dinner cruise on the Red Sea.
Naama Bay is just as lively when the sun goes down and you’ll find the action at clubs and bars in the streets around the promenade. Play roulette and poker at Casino Royale. If you’d rather escape to nature, take a tour to sleep under the stars at a Bedouin camp in the desert.
Getting around Sharm El Sheikh
Fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport for a car, taxi or bus ride of about 20 minutes to Naama Bay. At the custom-made tourist resorts, including Naama Bay and Shark Bay, everything’s within easy walking distance. Buses and taxis are readily available between neighbourhoods. Rent a car to explore at your leisure or take advantage of a great array of boat and land tours available.
