Sharm El-Sheikh: Coast, dive sites and city life

Sharm El-Sheikh lies on the Gulf of Aqaba. Its beaches and coastline are set against an impressive mountain backdrop; the sea is home to diverse marine life, flora and fauna, as well as rocky underwater areas. The destination offers a range of themes that can be considered separately when planning your trip.

Coast, coral and dive sites

Ras Mohammed National Park is nearby, approximately 20 km west of Sharm El-Sheikh. It is known for an 8 km-long coral reef, unique marine and terrestrial wildlife, and dive sites. The approximate distance provides a geographical reference; the reefs and dive sites are part of the national park.

Shark’s Bay also combines a distinctive coastline with activities on the water: the bay is crescent-shaped and surrounded by rocky hills. You can explore coral and tropical fish there. Shark’s Bay is also the departure point for most boat trips to nearby dive sites. If you would like to include diving and a boat trip in your plans, this connection between the bay and the excursion destination is a distinct aspect of the trip.

Water sports and a range of experiences

Sharm El-Sheikh has dive centres where you can earn a PADI certification during your holiday. If certification is important to you, check availability with your chosen centre. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are offered by accredited centres at and around the resorts; check availability and the relevant conditions before taking part.

The other water activities also vary in nature: parasailing offers panoramic views of the Red Sea and the Sinai Peninsula. Family-friendly tubing and banana boat rides also take place on the water. Glass-bottom boat trips let you see the underwater world without getting wet. Check local operators for availability of these trips. When planning, you can weigh up active water sports, a scenic ride and a view of the underwater world without treating these experiences as interchangeable.

Evenings and culture in Sharm El-Sheikh

Naama Bay is known for its promenade, resort life, restaurants, nightlife and relaxed beach days. Soho Square in Shark’s Bay offers dining, drinks and upscale shopping. The two places therefore represent different combinations: in Naama Bay, the promenade and beach offerings are part of its character, while Soho Square combines food and drinks with shopping. As the venues and programme may change, check the latest details if they are important to your plans.

The Sharm al-Sheikh Museum offers a cultural addition. It displays historical objects that illustrate various aspects of human civilisation, particularly ancient Egyptian civilisation. Its collection also includes objects representing Sinai’s cultural heritage. The museum therefore offers a different focus from coastal and water activities, turning attention to historical artefacts and the cultural history of Sinai.

South Sinai: cultural heritage and mountain scenery

The wider destination of South Sinai features further historical and landscape-related themes. The area around Saint Catherine is sacred to Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Saint Catherine’s Monastery was built between 548 and 565 AD on the orders of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to house monks who had lived on the Sinai Peninsula since the 4th century AD. The Fatimid Mosque at the monastery was built in 1106 AD, in the year 500 AH, during the reign of Caliph al-Amir bi-Ahkam Allah.

The mountain trails in South Sinai also call for their own planning. There are two main routes up Mount Moses: the steeper Steps of Repentance route, with 3,250 steps cut into the rock, and the easier Camel Trail, a gravel path that zigzags up the mountain. Both meet for the final 500 steps to the summit. Mount St Catherine has an elevation gain of 2,642 m and is a more demanding climb for experienced, physically fit hikers. Route conditions and requirements for guided tours may change. Before setting out on a desert excursion or mountain adventure, check with a tour operator, hotel or licensed guide to confirm that the activity is open to visitors.

Discover more destinations: Nuwaiba, El Tor, Dahab, Ras Sedr, Taba, Ra's Matarma, Saint Catherine

Go to the overview of the wider destination: South Sinai.