Sharm El Sheikh: Ultimate Resort Guide

Sharm El Sheikh: Ultimate Resort Guide

Sharm El Sheikh, located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is Egypt's premier beach resort destination. Known for world-class diving, beautiful beaches, and year-round sunshine, "Sharm" attracts millions of visitors every year. This guide will help you plan the perfect vacation.

Understanding Sharm's Areas

Naama Bay

• The heart of Sharm


• Main pedestrian promenade


• Shops, restaurants, nightlife


• Beach clubs and water sports


• Best for: First-timers, nightlife lovers

Sharks Bay

• North of Naama


• Quieter, more upscale


• Great snorkeling from shore


• Luxury resorts


• Best for: Divers, relaxation seekers

Nabq Bay

• North end of resort area


• Newer developments


• Kite-surfing hub


• Family-friendly resorts


• Best for: Families, water sports enthusiasts

Hadaba

• Clifftop area above Naama


• Some older hotels


• Better views, less beach


• More affordable


• Best for: Budget travelers

Ras Um Sid

• Southern area


• Beautiful coral reefs


• Quieter atmosphere


• Good restaurants


• Best for: Divers, snorkelers

Top Resort Recommendations

Luxury (5-Star)

• Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh


• Rixos Premium Seagate


• Savoy Sharm El Sheikh


• Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh

Mid-Range (4-Star)

• Coral Sea Sensatori


• Jaz Mirabel Beach


• Stella Di Mare Beach Hotel


• Royal Savoy

Budget-Friendly

• Tropitel Naama Bay


• Falcon Naama Star


• Sharm Cliff Resort

Best Beaches

1. Ras Um Sid Beach: Excellent snorkeling, natural reef
2. Naama Bay Beach: Central location, water sports
3. Sharks Bay: Protected marine area, turtles
4. White Knight Beach: Secluded, beautiful views
5. Farsha Beach: Bohemian vibes, great for sunset

Diving and Snorkeling

Sharm offers some of the world's best diving:

Top Dive Sites

• Ras Mohammed National Park (famous walls and schools of fish)


• Thistlegorm Wreck (WWII cargo ship)


• Jackson Reef (sharks and currents)


• Blue Hole (Dahab - day trip)


• The Gardens (beautiful coral gardens)

Snorkeling Options

• House reefs at most hotels


• Boat trips to offshore reefs


• Ras Mohammed day trip


• Tiran Island excursion

Things to Do Beyond the Beach

• Mount Sinai: Overnight trek for sunrise
• St. Catherine's Monastery: UNESCO World Heritage site
• Colored Canyon: Stunning rock formations
• Quad Biking: Desert adventures
• Glass-Bottom Boats: See the reef without getting wet
• Old Market: Traditional Sharm, bargain for souvenirs
• Soho Square: Evening entertainment
• SOHO Square: Modern dining and nightlife

Nightlife

Sharm has Egypt's liveliest nightlife:

• Pacha Sharm: Famous club


• Little Buddha: Asian-themed lounge


• Hard Rock Cafe: Live music


• Camel Bar: Classic Sharm spot


• Bus Stop: Local favorite

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season: December-February (Europeans escaping winter)
• Best Weather: March-May, September-November
• Warmest Sea: July-September
• Cheapest: June-August (very hot, but great deals)

Practical Information

Getting There

• Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH)


• Direct flights from many European cities


• 6-hour bus from Cairo

Getting Around

• Taxis (negotiate fare first)


• Hotel shuttles


• Uber is not available


• Walking in Naama Bay is pleasant

Money

• Egyptian Pounds (EGP)


• USD and EUR widely accepted


• ATMs throughout resort areas


• Most hotels and restaurants take cards

Tips for Visitors

• Book all-inclusive for best value
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen
• The sun is intense - use SPF 50+
• Dress modestly outside resorts
• Learn basic Arabic greetings
• Bargain at the Old Market
• Tip 10-15% at restaurants

Sharm El Sheikh offers the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you're a diver seeking underwater thrills or a beach lover wanting to unwind, Sharm delivers an unforgettable Red Sea experience.