16 of the best activities in Sharm El Sheikh you'll love
Sharm El Sheikh is simply a slice of paradise and by far, my favourite Red Sea Resort area in Egypt. Having visited several times, I am constantly drawn back by its unique landscape, lively nightly entertainment and of course, world famous coral reefs and turquoise waters. With so many cool activities in Sharm El Sheikh, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular choice for tourists visiting Egypt.
Whether you are a sun loving worshipper or party chaser, you’ll find it here. If you love all things water related or are looking for adventure, then yet again you’ve come to the right place. Shopping? Got it covered. Night time fun? So much to choose from. Desert activities? Of course. That’s right! Sharm El Sheikh has it all.
Before we go through all the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh, let’s look at some important information.
Where is Sharm El Sheikh & how to get there?
Simply “Sharm” as the locals call it, is a stunning coastal city located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. Situated approximately 600 km southeast of Cairo, the surrounding landscape encompasses a mix of mountains, desert and sea.
By Air
Flying to Sharm El Sheikh offers convenient transportation options from Cairo, Luxor, and international locations, thanks to the city's status as an international airport.
From Cairo, travellers can choose from several domestic airlines such as EgyptAir, Nile Air, and Air Cairo, offering multiple daily flights that make the short journey of approximately one hour.
For international travelers, Sharm El Sheikh International Airport serves as a major gateway, with airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and many more offering direct or connecting flights via Cairo.
By road
The journey from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh by road traverses through the Eastern Desert, presenting travellers with a captivating panorama of arid terrains and rugged mountains. You’ll also need to pass via the Suez tunnel north of Cairo.
By Vehicle: During the drive along the desert highway you will encounter various police and military stops. These are standard stops and are nothing to be concerned about. It’s all about the safety and security so expect at times to show your passport and even have your bags checked. For this reason, allow plenty of time to reach your destination and forget what google maps indicates in the drive time. It’s always much longer.
By coach: Transfers by coach are readily available with companies such as Blue Bus and Go Bus. They both provide a comfortable and convenient mode of transport, allowing travelers to enjoy the mesmerizing views while leaving the hassles of driving behind. The journey from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh is estimated at 6 to 7 hours, but allow up to 10 hours as suggested.
I have used both bus companies and either is clean and reliable. If you want to take the journey as an overnight option, Blue Bus offer business class seats with lights snacks and a couple of English movies to watch from a reclining seat. The upgrade is reasonably priced and well worth it seeing you are not paying for accommodation for one night.
Blue Bus from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh
Best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh enjoys ideal conditions all year round. With plenty of sunshine throughout the year, there really is no bad time to visit but that is dependent of what type of heat your are used to.
The hottest months of July and August can be somewhat unbearable without a regular dip in the water, so if you don’t particularly like stinking hot days and sticky hot nights, avoid these months. The upside is the crowds are much less than other times of year.
The first half of September is also noticeably hot, while the second half is a bit more enjoyable for other attractions on dry land. You’ll find plenty of adrenaline activities as well as some unique experiences you absolutely must try. (keep reading)
The winter months of November to March can be a little chilly for some. Personally, I found I couldn’t swim when visiting in December and January, though others certainly didn’t seem to mind. It may depend on where you come from. I found the many tourists from European countries were happy to get in the water, but for myself coming from Australia, it was a bit cold.
I personally think the best months to visit Sharm El Sheikh are April, May, June, September and October.
Absolute Egypt Tour Leader Mel in Sharm El Sheikh on a sunny December day
Average Water Temperature in Sharm El Sheikh (in Celsius) by Month
January: 22°C
February: 21°C
March: 22°C
April: 23°C
May: 25°C
June: 27°C
July: 28°C
August: 28°C
September: 28°C
October: 27°C
November: 25°C
December: 23°C
Note: These temperatures are approximate averages and may vary slightly from year to year.
Activities in Sharm El Sheikh
Let’s get to the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh including landmarks, locations, water activities, beaches and desert adventure.
Hit the stunning beaches
Australian Tour Leaders Mel & Mina in Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh boasts some of the most picturesque and serene beach locations in Egypt, offering both sandy and coral reef experiences.
Among the most popular public beaches, Naama Bay Beach stands out with its soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. This family friendly location offers calm waters with a shallow entrance from the shoreline. The entire area is surrounded by high end hotels, restaurants and shopping opportunities only a few steps away.
Ras Um Sid Beach is another public gem known for its vibrant coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving. This picturesque paradise offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and the Gulf of Aqaba. Visitors can indulge in sunbathing, water sports, and beachside relaxation, all while soaking in the beauty of this idyllic location.
El Fanar Beach is a picturesque stretch of soft white sand nestled against the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. Framed by rugged mountains and vibrant coral reefs, it offers a serene escape for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. Snorkeling and scuba diving reveal a kaleidoscope of marine life, with snorkel gear rentals widely available for exploring the stunning underwater world. You’ll also find beachfront cafes serving up refreshing drinks and delectable local cuisine making it a great choice for a visit.
2. Ras Mohammed National Park
Ras Mohammed National Park is a diverse marine park for water enthusiasts
A day trip to Ras Mohammed National Park is undoubtedly one of the best attractions in Sharm El Sheikh. This Marine Park is world famous with an array of stunning reefs to dive or snorkel. It is simply unmissable for those seeking pristine corals and aquatic sea life.
Established in 1983, Ras Mohammed is officially the first National Park declared in Egypt.
More than 220 species of coral are found here, 125 of them soft coral. It is also home to an abundant amount of sea life and makes this place a popular snorkel and diving destination. The park is characterized by vertical overhangs and expansive coral gardens. It also boasts rugged landscapes, mangroves, and salt marshes, providing a home for an array of terrestrial and marine species.
Visitors to Sharm El Sheikh have various options to explore Ras Mohammed. For a leisurely experience, boat trips are popular, offering stunning views of the coastline. Coach tours are another option, or alternately, private vehicle entry is available.
3. ATV Desert Tour
ATV desert tours take you on a exhilarating adventure into the desert
Experience the thrill of exploring the desert around Sharm El Sheikh on an ATV tour.
Traverse through the breathtaking landscapes of towering sand dunes, rugged canyons, and ancient mountains. Marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea as you navigate your way through the desert.
Many ATV companies offer additional highlights such as a visit to a traditional Bedouin camp. You’ll sip Bedouin Tea and experience the lifestyle of locals. Other options also include camel rides, plus sunset tours with star gazing and dinner with live entertainment.
ATV tours in Sharm El Sheikh can range from 1 to 2 hours, to half-day adventures, and full-day explorations. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, ensuring an unforgettable and safe experience for all participants. Prepare to be amazed as you embark on an exhilarating journey through one of Egypt's most mesmerizing landscapes.
4. Tiran Island
The dive and snorkel sites of Tiran are one of the best in the area
Located in the glistening waters of the Red Sea, Tiran Island offers a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. A boat tour from Sharm El Sheikh will take you to the reefs that surround this pristine island. Here, you can immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings and vibrant marine life. The distance of 5 kilometers takes about 30-40 minutes to reach, depending on the weather and sea conditions.
The waters off Tiran Island provide the perfect environment for snorkeling, with varying depths suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. You can expect to encounter depths ranging from a few feet to around 30 feet, providing ample opportunities to observe the marine wonders beneath the surface. The calm and clear conditions make for an enjoyable and safe snorkeling experience for all participants.
Full day trips to Tiran offer all snorkel gear with lunch provided.
Diving is also highly rated here, and is considered a world class destination, with boats heading out each day when conditions are well suited. Highlights include the coral formations at Jackson reef, Woodhouse, Thomas, and Gordon reefs. Encounter majestic sea turtles, colorful fish, and stunning coral gardens as you delve into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
5. Parasailing & other water sports
The Red Sea is a playground of water activities including parasailing
Parasailing is an adventurous past time for thrill seeking activities in Sharm El Sheikh.
Participants are harnessed to a parachute and towed by a speedboat, soaring high above the azure waters. The activity is usually conducted in the vicinity of Naama Bay or the nearby Ras Um Sid, both known for their picturesque coastlines and clear waters.
On average, a parasailing ride lasts about 10-15 minutes, allowing participants to revel in the breathtaking panorama from above.
For those seeking more aquatic thrills, Sharm El Sheikh offers a variety of water activities such as banana boat rides, where riders hold on as the inflatable boat zigzags through the water, and jet skiing, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience as you navigate the waves on a powerful watercraft.
You will find activity operators along the beach ready to sign you up.
6. Glass Bottom Boat
A glass bottom boat tour is a great way to see the underwater world of the Red Sea
Prefer to stay dry on a tour of the Red Sea? Then a Glass Bottom Boat Tour is the perfect alternative.
Departing from the vibrant marina of Sharm El Sheikh, the tour takes you a short distance off the coast on a journey across various coral reefs. You’ll get a chance to look through the large view finder on the floor of the boat, ready to spot a myriad of exotic fish species.
This particular tour is great during the cooler months of Winter when water temperatures might be a little too cold for some. It is also suited to less than confident swimmers and is considered a great family activity.
Tours generally last 1 to 2 hours.
7. Aqua Adventure Water Park
The perfect family day out - Aqua Adventure Water Park
Get out of the heat and head to Sharm’s Aqua Adventure Water Park for the day to cool off. The kids will think it’s one of the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh, but so will the adults.
The 5 star water park is simply huge and offers a full day of adventure with water playground, splash pads, lazy river tubing, 32 water slides and more! There are 9 individual water pools in total including 3 pools just for the lil ones.
The Park also boasts the exhilarating Tsunami Wave Pool and the breathtaking Flying Boat ride. The Tsunami Wave Pool delivers the excitement of powerful waves, providing a thrilling experience for water enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Flying Boat offers an unforgettable aerial adventure over the park's stunning surroundings.
For those wanting to experience these unforgettable attractions, individual entry as well as family passes are available.
8. Old Market
The Old Market is a treasure trove of spices, souvenirs and local gifts
The Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh is a bustling and authentic bazaar, and one of my favourite places to shop. It is the ideal place to find unique souvenirs and gifts and is best visited late afternoon and into the evening.
Located in the heart of the city, the Old Market features narrow alleyways lined with stalls selling a wide array of goods, including vibrant textiles, spices, handmade crafts, and jewelry. The scent of exotic spices wafts through the air as merchants enthusiastically engage in the age-old art of haggling.
Visitors can also sample local delicacies at the food stands and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere as street performers entertain the crowds. The Old Market is a vibrant hub offering an authentic taste of Egyptian life and culture.
9. Al Sahaba Mosque
The architectural masterpiece of Al Sahaba Mosque in Sharm’s Old market area
Completed in 2017, the Al Sahaba Mosque’s construction was initiated by local Bedouin tribes and completed through community efforts. This architectural masterpiece sits in the area of the Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh and is particularly breath taking after dark. With pristine domes and towering minarets, the mosque offers tourists a glimpse into the revered traditions and rich history of Islam in Egypt.
It is essential to be mindful of local customs and etiquette. It is advisable for both men and women to dress modestly, with women covering their heads, shoulders, and knees. Visitors are also requested to remove their shoes before entering the mosque as a sign of respect. Robes can be hired for those who would like to enter but do not have the right attire.
10. Heavenly Cathedral
Heavenly Cathedral is even more impressive from inside
The Heavenly Cathedral in Sharm El Sheikh is a stunning Coptic Christian church open to visitors.
You’ll discover elegant architecture and serene ambiance, with the exterior of the cathedral boasting intricate carvings and graceful domes. From inside, visitors are greeted by ornate stained glass windows, intricately detailed murals, and awe-inspiring arches. It is quite stunning inside and well worth the visit.
The cathedral is typically open to visitors during specific hours, often in the mornings and evenings. Be sure to adhere to a modest dress code when entering the cathedral, by covering the legs and shoulders. As it is a Coptic Church, head cover is not needed.
11. Farsha Cafe
Farsha Cafe overlooking the sparkling waters of the Red Sea
Farsha Cafe is a true favourite and I always pay a visit when visiting Sharm El Sheikh.
This cliff side cafe is split on many levels overlooking the turquoise waters of the Red Sea, and provides one of the best views in town. It is located approx 10 km from Naama Bay beach in the Hadaba district and can easily reached by a short taxi ride.
The cafe is a treasure trove of antiques and everything Arabian. There are several seating areas reached via a stair case where you can sit and drink, smoke shisha and just enjoy “that view’.
Farsha is gorgeous any time of day, but to enjoy the colourful sea of lights, I particularly love visiting at dusk and seeing the transition from day to night.
12. Soho Square
Water fountains in Soho - Sharm El Sheikh
For nightly activities in Sharm El Sheikh, a visit to Soho Square is a must.
As the sun sets, jump in a taxi and head out to Shark Bay to the upmarket and funky Soho Square. A lively spot to head at night, the square offers a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences.
This bustling hub is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse attractions, including international restaurants, bustling cafes, and a range of retail outlets. Visitors can enjoy live music, street performances, and a colorful fountain show providing entertainment throughout the evening. Shoho Square is the perfect place for tourists and locals alike to relax, socialize, and soak up the lively energy of Sharm El Sheikh.
Soho Square is also a great family place with rides and more for the kids.
13. Star Gazing
Star gazing in the nearby desert in Sharm El Sheikh
Just a few minutes out of town, and away from any light pollution, you have the opportunity to go star gazing.
Head to the desert just outside of town to experience and fully appreciate the celestial wonders. Whether it's at one the nightly desert camp shows or through a star gazing tour, Sharm El Sheikh is a prime location for star gazing.
The best part is you don’t have to venture too far to experience the night sky at its best.
14. Tanoura Show and Belly Dancing
The Tanoura is a spellbinding dance
For more Sharm El Sheikh activities, you must include seeing the mesmerizing art of Tanoura and Belly Dancing. There are several venues where you can witness these traditional Egyptian performances, often including your hotel or resort. So be sure to check the nightly entertainment schedule.
The ancient dance of Tanoura is a captivating sight to behold. You can catch a performance at the Alf Leila Wa Leila show in Sharm El Sheikh. This colorful and energetic dance involves skilled performers twirling gracefully in vibrant, multi-layered skirts to traditional music, symbolizing a spiritual journey.
Belly dancing is a sensual and expressive form of dance that has been a part of Egyptian culture for centuries. You can enjoy belly dancing performances at various restaurants and entertainment venues in Sharm El Sheikh, such as at the Sahara Middle Eastern Restaurant. Dancers adorned in glittering costumes skillfully move their hips and torso in mesmerizing movements, showcasing the rich heritage and beauty of this art form.
15. Hiking up Mount Sinai
The hike up Mount Sinai is a challenging but very rewarding climb for sunrise.
Mount Sinai is a mountain within the Sinai Peninsula and is the location where Moses is believed to have received the 10 Commandments. Today visitors can partake in this challenging hike to the summit for some the most breathtaking views in all of Egypt.
Organised tours depart Sharm El Sheikh nightly, taking you to the base of the mountain. The 2 to 3 hour hike is done overnight as you slowly weave your way up the mountain via the well paved trail. Once you reach the top, it’s a short wait for sunrise.
As the sun hits the horizon, the surrounding mountains are slowly illuminated, capturing the most captivating view. The changing colours of sunrise present hues ranging from pinks, purples and orange.
Once you make your way back down the mountain, be sure to pay a visit to Saint Catherine Monastery. It is considered one of the most important religious sites in all of Egypt.
To find out more: Mount Sinai Climb - full guide to Sinai Mountain
16. Dahab and the Blue Hole
The Blue Hole in Dahab is a unique attraction for diving and snorkeling
Dahab is a popular seaside resort around 100 km from Sharm El Sheikh and one of the best attractions near Sharm El Sheikh.
Smaller in size, the town of Dahab is a big draw card for visitors due to it’s more relaxed feel and atmosphere. Head to the Laguna for a swim or eat at the many restaurants that line the waters edge. There are also quite a few tourist shops for those seeking some Egyptian souvenirs.
Dahab is also home to the infamous Blue Hole. This 100 metre deep submarine sinkhole attracts recreational divers all year round as well as avid snorkelers. Located straight off the beach, the Blue Hole is a unique attraction accessed from the sandy shoreline.
Conclusion to best activities and attractions in Sharm El Sheikh
A visit to Sharm El Sheikh is full of opportunity, both on land and in the water. With so many activities in Sharm El Sheikh to see and do, it’s no wonder this Red Sea paradise is so popular.
I would suggest a minimum of 5 days here, but 7 to 10 days is perfect for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Why not consider a Tailor Made Tour of Egypt to include the Pyramids of Giza, a cruise on the Nile and a stay on the Red Sea in Sharm El Sheikh. By going tailor made, you can make your own itinerary and we’ll take care of the all the details including your hotel or resort stay, a range of day trips and tours plus transfers. It’s the easiest way to ensure a memorable and smooth trip to Egypt.
Group tours available with Australian Tour Leader
Highlights of Egypt with 7 day extended Red Sea stay.
Treasure of Egypt and Jordan - fully escorted from Australia
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