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Sharm El Sheikh Travel Guide

As your plane descends over the southern Sinai, Sharm El Sheikh reveals itself—where the deep blue of the Red Sea meets golden desert mountains, and a ribbon of sun-drenched coast promises both adventure and ease.

On my first visit, I arrived at sunset, the air rich with salt and spice, the breeze warm and welcoming. By the time I reached Naama Bay, the sea shimmered under moonlight, and I hadn’t even unpacked before I knew—this place was something special.

Sharm is more than a beach resort. It’s where coral reefs, desert silence, and cultural richness come together in perfect balance. Whether you’re diving, dining, or simply drifting into stillness, it meets you where you are.

 

In this guide, I’ll share the best of what Sharm El Sheikh has to offer—from underwater marvels to desert escapes and everything in between.

1. Snorkeling and Diving in Ras Mohammed National Park

They say if you’ve never seen the Red Sea from beneath the surface, you’ve only seen half its beauty.

Just a short boat ride from Sharm lies Ras Mohammed National Park, a marine sanctuary that has achieved near-legendary status among divers. And with good reason. The first time I descended into the waters at Shark Reef, it was like diving into an underwater kaleidoscope. Swirls of anthias darted through bright coral spires. A lone barracuda cruised past, its silver body catching the light. Below me, the reef wall dropped into an endless cobalt abyss. It was thrilling, serene, and wildly alive—all at once.

But you don’t need to be a seasoned diver to enjoy Ras Mohammed. Even from the surface, the reefs are breathtaking. On a calm morning at Yolanda Reef, I floated above a coral garden where moray eels poked out from crevices and parrotfish nibbled noisily on coral. The water was so clear, it felt like snorkeling in a giant aquarium.

What makes Ras Mohammed unique isn’t just its biodiversity—it’s the sense of untouched wonder. Strict conservation efforts have kept these reefs vibrant, and experienced guides lead trips that are as respectful as they are exciting.

What to Know:

• Day trips typically leave from Sharm’s marina, including several snorkeling or dive stops.
• Certified divers can explore famous sites like Shark & Yolanda Reef, Jackfish Alley, and the Anemone City.
• First-timers can take introductory dives or snorkel in shallow reefs with trained instructors.
• Marine life sightings include turtles, eagle rays, reef sharks, and countless reef fish.
• It’s a protected area—follow your guide’s instructions closely to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.

Whether you’re a diver chasing deep currents or a casual snorkeler with a sense of curiosity, the waters of Ras Mohammed offer something few places can: the quiet, humbling magic of seeing life unfold just beneath the surface.

2. Beach Hopping: From Naama Bay to Shark’s Bay

The beauty of Sharm El Sheikh’s coastline isn’t just in its scenery—it’s in its contrast. In one afternoon, you can go from the buzz of Naama Bay’s beach cafés to the peaceful stillness of a secluded cove in Shark’s Bay. Each stretch of sand has its own mood, its own soundtrack, and its own view of the Red Sea’s ever-changing palette.

Naama Bay is where most visitors begin. It’s the beating heart of Sharm—a lively, palm-lined promenade where beach bars serve mint lemonades, musicians play at sunset, and you can walk from hotel to hotel without ever leaving the waterfront. Here, the beach is wide, the energy is social, and the vibe is distinctly cosmopolitan. It's perfect for travelers who like their beach days with a side of music, street vendors, and impromptu dancing.

But if you’re after something more intimate, Shark’s Bay offers a completely different rhythm. Nestled against a backdrop of low cliffs and boutique resorts, this quieter bay has calm waters ideal for snorkeling straight from the shore. The coral here creeps right up to the water’s edge—so even a five-minute swim reveals butterflyfish, sea urchins, and maybe a curious octopus or two. The pace is slower, the spaces more private, and the sunsets? They feel personal.

Then there’s El Fanar Beach, perched at the southern edge of Sharm. This one’s a hidden gem—favored by couples, solo travelers, and anyone craving a little peace with their panorama. Perched on a small cliff, the beach offers sunbeds tucked into cozy corners, with stairs leading down to some of the area’s most vibrant coral. It’s also one of the best places to catch golden hour, when the sun dips low and the sea turns molten.

What to Know:

·        Most beaches in Sharm are either connected to hotels or private clubs, but day passes are widely available.

·        Naama Bay is great for those who enjoy easy access to dining, shopping, and nightlife. Expect a busier scene.

·        Shark’s Bay and El Fanar are better suited for those who prioritize tranquility, snorkeling, or a romantic atmosphere.

·        Bring water shoes if you plan to snorkel—many beaches are pebbly or have rocky entries.

·        Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Beach hopping in Sharm isn’t about finding the “best” beach—it’s about finding the right one for the moment. Whether you’re in the mood to people-watch, drift in silence, or explore a new snorkeling spot, the coastline always delivers.

3. Take a Desert Safari in the Sinai

There’s a certain stillness in the desert you won’t find anywhere else. It’s not just quiet—it’s vast, endless, and ancient. Out in the Sinai Desert, where time seems to slow and the earth glows gold at sunset, you begin to understand the depth of Egypt’s landscapes beyond the sea.

I joined a late-afternoon desert safari not knowing what to expect. The pickup was unassuming—a weathered 4x4, a few friendly guides, and a loosely held promise of tea and stars. Within minutes, we were deep into the desert, the city forgotten behind us. The terrain shifted constantly: sand dunes gave way to rocky canyons, palm-lined oases appeared unexpectedly, and strange stone formations stood like sculptures left by the wind.

We stopped at a quiet Bedouin village, where life moved with the rhythm of the sun. Children played near goats; women baked flatbread over open flames; and a smiling elder handed us small glasses of hot tea infused with desert herbs. It wasn’t a performance—it was a genuine moment of sharing. Later, we climbed a nearby hill for sunset. As the sky turned pink and purple, the guide pointed out Venus and Mars appearing on the horizon. By nightfall, the Milky Way arched overhead in a dazzling display that made you forget electricity even existed.

For thrill-seekers, the same desert offers a completely different adventure. ATVs roar across dunes, stirring up clouds of sand as riders speed toward the horizon. Camel treks are a more meditative way to explore, swaying gently across soft sand with only the wind and the occasional hoofbeat as your soundtrack.

What to Know:

·        Desert safaris can range from a few hours to full-day or overnight trips, often including stargazing and dinner in a Bedouin camp.

·        Options include 4x4 tours, ATV quad biking, camel rides, and guided hikes.

·        Most tours are led by experienced locals who provide cultural insight as well as desert navigation.

·        Bring sun protection, water, and layers—the desert gets cold after sunset, even in warmer months.

·        Respect the pace and customs of Bedouin communities. A smile and a few Arabic phrases go a long way.

What makes a Sinai safari unforgettable isn’t just the scenery—it’s the feeling. The vastness makes your worries feel small. The stars remind you how big the world really is. And the warmth of the people, even in such a harsh landscape, stays with you long after the dust has settled.

4. Glass-Bottom Boat and Submarine Tours

Not everyone comes to Sharm El Sheikh ready to strap on a tank and plunge into the deep. But the good news? You don’t have to. The Red Sea shares its wonders generously—even with those who prefer to stay above the surface.

One morning, I boarded a modest glass-bottom boat moored at Naama Bay. The deck was warm underfoot, and the Red Sea sparkled like a gemstone beneath us. But it wasn’t until we reached the reef shelf and peered through the glass panels below that the real magic began. Suddenly, we were gliding over an alien landscape—purple and orange coral formations, feathery sea fans swaying with the current, and schools of technicolor fish darting in and out of view like they were part of a choreographed ballet.

Children on board pressed their noses to the glass, pointing excitedly at every sea turtle or lionfish that passed. For them—and honestly, for most adults too—it felt like watching a live documentary, but with the added thrill of being right there.

For something even more immersive, Sharm offers full submarine experiences, where you descend into the depths aboard a semi-submerged vessel equipped with panoramic viewing windows. These trips reach depths of around 20 to 25 meters, allowing for a rare and comfortable glimpse of deeper coral ecosystems and marine life—no swimming required.

It’s an especially great option for:

·        Families with young kids

·        Older travelers

·        Non-swimmers or nervous first-timers

·        Visitors short on time who still want a taste of the underwater world

What to Know:

·        Most tours last 1 to 2 hours and include hotel pickup.

·        Glass-bottom boats stay near the surface and often stop near reefs for observation.

·        Submarine rides offer a more immersive experience at deeper levels, with guides explaining what you’re seeing.

·        While these trips aren’t substitutes for diving or snorkeling, they provide a unique, accessible way to witness the Red Sea’s biodiversity.

·        It’s still a good idea to wear sunscreen and a hat—sunlight reflects powerfully off the water.

There’s a quiet kind of joy in simply watching the sea come alive beneath you, without masks or wetsuits. Whether you’re traveling with kids, older relatives, or just want a break from the physical activity of a beach holiday, these tours offer the chance to see the Red Sea, not just admire it from the shore.

5. Nightlife and Dining in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm’s days might be about coral reefs and camel rides—but its nights are painted in neon and flavored with spices. As dusk falls, the sea breeze carries the scent of grilled seafood and jasmine shisha, and the city transforms. Lights flicker on along the waterfront, live music floats through the air, and restaurants begin filling up with people dressed in flowing linens and sun-warmed smiles.

Naama Bay is where the energy starts. The main promenade is lined with cafés, lounges, and open-air restaurants that spill onto the sidewalk. It’s a little bit Cairo, a little bit Mediterranean, and a whole lot of laid-back Red Sea charm. One night, I followed the sound of an oud player into a side-street café, where I was served the best molokhia I’ve ever tasted—earthy, garlicky, and utterly comforting. A couple of tables over, a group of locals clapped along to a live darbuka performance while kids ran past chasing bubbles.

Then there’s Soho Square, Sharm’s polished nightlife hub near Shark’s Bay. It’s part plaza, part entertainment complex, where you can sip cocktails at a rooftop lounge, ice skate (yes, really), and watch choreographed light shows from a central fountain. Trendy restaurants serve everything from sushi to Lebanese mezza, and there’s even an ice bar carved entirely from frozen blocks. It’s upscale without being unapproachable—a great choice for couples or families wanting a more curated evening out.

Dining in Sharm doesn’t stop at shawarma and seafood (though those are excellent too). You’ll find Indian curries, Italian trattorias, and Egyptian grills—all nestled along beachfront patios or cozy rooftops. And if you’re after something more local? The Old Market (Sharm el-Maya) is where you'll find humble, delicious Egyptian fare served without frills but full of flavor.

What to Know:

·        Restaurants often stay open late, and you’re never rushed. Take your time—it’s part of the culture.

·        Alcohol is available in many places, especially in hotels and licensed restaurants, but not all establishments serve it.

·        Dress is casual, though some upscale venues may prefer smart-casual attire in the evenings.

·        Shisha is common and widely enjoyed; even if you don’t smoke, sharing a table at a shisha café is a great way to soak up the social atmosphere.

Whether you're dining under stars in a candlelit courtyard, dancing barefoot on the beach, or sipping strong coffee while watching the city hum, nights in Sharm have a rhythm all their own. It’s not about going big—it’s about going slow, savoring the moment, and letting the Red Sea breeze carry you into tomorrow.

6. Where to Stay in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right place to stay depends on the kind of experience you’re after—do you want to be in the center of the action, tucked away by the reef, or stretched out poolside at an all-inclusive resort?

The good news is, whether you're a backpacker, a honeymooner, or a family of five, Sharm has a neighborhood and hotel style that fits.

Naama Bay – Lively & Central

Naama Bay is the original heart of Sharm, where it all began. It’s still the city’s most vibrant hub, packed with hotels, restaurants, beach bars, and tour agencies. The main promenade is alive day and night, and most places are within walking distance.

Best for: First-time visitors, social travelers, those who want to be near nightlife and dining.

Atmosphere: Energetic, beachy, walkable.

Stay here if: You like having cafés, shops, beaches, and tour pickups right at your doorstep. It’s easy to explore without a car, and the vibe is perfect for those who enjoy people-watching and spontaneous plans.

Shark’s Bay – Quiet & Scenic

Just north of Naama Bay, Shark’s Bay offers a more peaceful alternative. Many resorts here have direct beach access and house reefs perfect for snorkeling. It’s also home to Soho Square, giving you a polished evening option without the downtown buzz.

Best for: Couples, families, and snorkelers.

Atmosphere: Relaxed, upscale, reef-focused.

Stay here if: You want a calm environment but still appreciate some evening entertainment options and easy access to the airport.

Hadaba / El Fanar – Romantic & Laid-Back

Set on cliffs overlooking the sea, this area has some of the best Red Sea views in Sharm. Known for its boutique resorts, quiet beaches, and intimate settings, Hadaba is ideal for travelers who want to slow down.

Best for: Honeymooners, solo travelers, photographers.

Atmosphere: Artistic, tranquil, scenic.

Stay here if: You’re drawn to smaller hotels with personality, cozy cafés, and fewer crowds—plus excellent coral right offshore.

Nabq Bay – Spacious & All-Inclusive

Further north, Nabq Bay is known for sprawling resorts and all-inclusive packages. The beaches are long, the hotel grounds vast, and it’s a great spot if you plan to relax more than explore.

Best for: Families with kids, groups, resort lovers.

Atmosphere: Modern, spacious, resort-centric.

Stay here if: You want everything in one place—pools, buffets, kids’ clubs, spa services, and beach access. It’s also a bit more budget-friendly for long stays.

A Few Insider Tips:

• Choose beach access wisely. Some hotels have gorgeous views but limited access to the water. If snorkeling or swimming is important, check reviews or ask before booking.
• Don’t overlook local guesthouses. Beyond the big resorts, Sharm has smaller family-run accommodations with loads of charm—especially in areas like Hadaba and Shark’s Bay.
• Consider proximity to dive centers. If diving is your focus, many centers offer hotel pickups—but staying nearby can make your schedule easier.

Where you stay in Sharm shapes your experience. And the best part? You don’t have to choose just one. Many travelers split their trip—a few days in the center, a few days by a reef, and a final night tucked into the quiet desert view.

7. Where to Eat and Drink in Sharm El Sheikh

There’s something wonderfully unhurried about dining in Sharm. Meals aren’t just about fueling up—they’re about lingering. About sipping, sharing, and sometimes getting so caught up in conversation or a sea view that you forget about the rest of the itinerary.

From sizzling seafood platters to aromatic tagines, Egyptian street eats to fresh Italian pasta, Sharm offers more than you'd expect from a resort town. You just need to know where to look.

Old Market (Sharm el-Maya) – Local Flavor, Unfiltered

If you want to eat like a local, head to the Old Market. Here, smoke rises from open grills, pita is pulled fresh from stone ovens, and vendors call out with trays of baklava and roasted nuts. It’s the place for authentic Egyptian food at local prices.

What to try:

• Koshari – Egypt’s ultimate comfort food: a hearty bowl of pasta, rice, lentils, fried onions, and spicy tomato sauce.
• Foul and falafel – Served in warm baladi bread, perfect as a light meal or snack.
• Fresh seafood – Pick your fish from the ice counter, grilled to order and served with mezze.

Tip: Some restaurants here don’t serve alcohol, but most are happy to welcome tourists. Modest dress is appreciated in this more traditional area.

Naama Bay – Variety and Vibes

Naama Bay’s waterfront is lined with cafés and restaurants offering global menus. Whether you’re craving pizza, Indian curry, or a mixed grill with a sea breeze, it’s all here—and with a view.

Best picks:

• Tam Tam – Egyptian classics with rooftop views over the bay.
• Little Buddha – Trendy sushi lounge by night, sleek restaurant by day.
• Hard Rock Café – A reliable stop for Western favorites and live music.

This is also the place to try a shisha café. Order a fruit-flavored pipe, a pot of mint tea or karkadeh (hibiscus tea), and let the hours drift.

Soho Square – Stylish and Upscale

Located near Shark’s Bay, Soho Square offers a more refined dining experience. Think elegant decor, international cuisine, and quiet rooftops—ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions.

Top choices:

• Akuna Matata – A food court-style experience with global stations: Italian, Indian, Egyptian, and more.
• Sushi Lounge – Chic, minimalist, and known for high-quality sashimi and sushi rolls.
• Luxor Restaurant – Beautifully presented Middle Eastern food with a modern touch.

At night, the area comes alive with fountain shows, light displays, and live music—but it’s more polished than party-oriented.

A Few Culinary Tips:

• Ask locals where they eat. Often, the best meals are hidden in plain sight—small places with plastic chairs and unforgettable food.
• Seafood is a must. You’re on the Red Sea. Whether grilled, fried, or in a hearty stew, fresh catch is always a good idea.
• Vegetarian-friendly? Yes—especially in Egyptian cuisine. Dishes like lentil soup, baba ghanoush, tahini, molokhia, and falafel are flavorful and satisfying.
• Water and ice: Stick to bottled water, and confirm if ice is filtered (especially in smaller venues).

Whether you're dining by candlelight or from a paper plate, meals in Sharm are more than food—they’re a way to slow down, take in the view, and connect with the culture one bite at a time.

8. Shopping and Souvenirs in Sharm El Sheikh

Wandering through a Sharm souq feels like stepping into a mosaic of color and texture. The scent of jasmine mingles with roasted spices; rows of glass perfume bottles sparkle under strings of hanging lanterns; and the shopkeepers—ever watchful, ever warm—greet you with a mix of charm, hospitality, and a gentle invitation to haggle.

Shopping in Sharm isn’t a rush—it’s a ritual. You stroll. You touch. You ask questions. You sip tea. Then maybe, you buy.

Old Market (Sharm el-Maya) – Traditional and Affordable

This is the most atmospheric place to shop in Sharm. Tucked into the historic part of the city, the Old Market (also known as the souq) is where you’ll find a deep dive into local craftsmanship and everyday Egyptian goods.

What to buy:

• Spices – Cumin, hibiscus, saffron, dukkah blends. The colors and scents alone are worth the visit.
• Natural oils and perfumes – Look for shops selling rose oil, musk, or essential oils in hand-blown bottles.
• Textiles – Embroidered scarves, cotton galabeyas (traditional robes), and handwoven rugs.
• Hookahs (shisha pipes) – Available in all shapes and sizes, often ornately decorated and perfect for a display piece or souvenir.

Tips:

• Bargaining is expected—start low, smile often, and take your time.
• Don’t be afraid to walk away—half the dance is in the negotiation.
• Keep some cash on hand; small vendors often don’t accept cards.

Soho Square – Polished Boutiques and Artisan Finds

If you’re looking for something a bit more refined, head to Soho Square. Here, boutique shops sell high-quality Egyptian goods—great for gifts or self-indulgence.

What you’ll find:

• Jewelry made with Sinai turquoise or desert crystals
• Fine cotton clothing and beachwear
• Leather goods, from sandals to handbags
• Packaged spices and teas, beautifully wrapped

Prices here are generally fixed and higher than the souq—but you’re paying for quality and presentation. It’s ideal if you prefer a calmer, no-haggle experience.

Resort Shops and Mall Outlets

Most larger resorts and shopping centers (like Genena City or Il Mercato) have souvenir shops with standard items—papyrus scrolls, keychains, magnets, and bottled sand art. They’re convenient, though often more expensive and less unique.

If you’re short on time or need something last-minute, these spots are helpful—but for more authentic keepsakes, nothing beats the open-air charm of the Old Market.

Insider Tips for Shopping in Sharm:

• Look for craftsmanship. Handmade beats mass-produced. Ask where an item was made or how it was sourced.
• Support small vendors. Many rely on tourism for their entire income. Even small purchases help sustain local artisans.
• Check for authenticity. Not all “papyrus” is real; real papyrus has texture, is thicker, and usually comes with a certificate.
• Leave space in your luggage. Between the spices, textiles, and treasures, you’ll likely come home with more than you planned.

In Sharm El Sheikh, shopping becomes part of the adventure—not just what you take home, but the people you meet, the stories you hear, and the glimpse you get into daily Egyptian life.

9. Getting Around Sharm El Sheikh

One of Sharm’s strengths is its compact layout. The city is spread along a relatively short stretch of coast, which means most of the key areas—Naama Bay, Shark’s Bay, the Old Market, Hadaba, Nabq Bay—are reachable within 20 to 30 minutes. That said, how you move between them can shape your experience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling independently.

Taxis – Convenient but Negotiable

Taxis are widely available, especially around hotels, airports, and major tourist hubs. However, they rarely use meters, so you’ll need to agree on a price before getting in.

Tips for using taxis:

• Always negotiate the fare in advance—don’t assume it will be fair by default.
• Ask your hotel what a typical fare should cost for your destination as a baseline.
• Be firm but polite in bargaining; overcharging tourists is common but avoidable.
• Carry small bills to avoid “no change” situations.

Some hotels offer trusted drivers or preferred partnerships—these are often more reliable, especially for early morning or late-night trips.

Ride-Hailing Apps – Limited but Growing

Apps like Careem (the Middle Eastern version of Uber) are slowly making their way into Sharm. They aren’t always as widely available as in Cairo, but when they work, they can save you the trouble of haggling.

If you plan to use a ride-hailing service:

• Download and set up the app before your trip.
• Use it in busier districts like Naama Bay or Soho Square, where more drivers tend to be.
• It’s ideal for airport transfers or planned trips across town.

Microbuses – Cheap and Adventurous

For the truly budget-conscious or adventurous, white microbuses shuttle locals between neighborhoods. They follow loose routes and are extremely inexpensive—but there are no schedules, signs, or guarantees they’ll be heading your way.

Best for: Experienced travelers who don’t mind a bit of mystery and have basic Arabic (or a local contact to help).

Not recommended if you're in a hurry, carrying luggage, or unfamiliar with the area.

Walking – Safe and Scenic (in Some Areas)

Sharm is surprisingly walkable in concentrated areas like Naama Bay, Soho Square, and resort zones. Walking is a pleasant way to take in the vibe, especially in the evenings when the heat subsides and the cafés come alive.

Where walking works well:

• Along the beach promenade in Naama Bay
• Between nearby hotels and restaurants in Shark’s Bay or Nabq
• Within marketplaces like the Old Market or Il Mercato district

Just note that sidewalks can be uneven or missing entirely in some places, and daytime heat can make longer walks uncomfortable.

Airport Transfers – Plan Ahead

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) is only a short drive from most hotel zones (10–25 minutes depending on where you’re staying). Many hotels offer free or low-cost transfers, especially if arranged in advance.

Tips:

• Confirm your pickup time and meeting location before arrival.
• For departures, allow extra time for security, which is often more extensive than in larger airports.

Final Thoughts on Getting Around:

• Plan your movements with intention. While distances are short, last-minute transport can be tricky during peak hours or late at night.
• Ask locals or hotel staff for guidance. They’ll often steer you toward the safest and fairest options.
• Blend convenience and culture. A private car might get you there faster—but a well-timed walk or a local microbus can add character to the journey.

In Sharm, getting around is more than transportation—it’s part of the travel tapestry, revealing new faces, unfamiliar music, and unexpected views with every turn.

Sharm El Sheikh: Where Every Horizon Invites You Further

Sharm El Sheikh is more than a destination. It’s a convergence point—of land and sea, stillness and celebration, history and the here-and-now.

It’s where coral walls rise from the depths like cathedrals, where ancient paths crisscross silent deserts, and where voices from around the world gather over fresh seafood and shared stories. Whether you’re floating in the Red Sea’s impossibly blue shallows, watching the sun rise over Mount Sinai, or sipping mint tea in a quiet alley of the Old Market, this place leaves its mark.

You don’t come to Sharm just to see it. You come to feel it—in your lungs, your pace, your perspective.

And when it’s time to leave, you’ll likely do so already dreaming about your return.