Sharm El Sheikh sits where the Sinai Peninsula’s desert mountains meet the Red Sea, and it’s the Red Sea’s coral reefs, not desert ruins, that draw most visitors here for some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling.

Why Visit Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh offers reliably warm water, excellent visibility, and coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it one of the most accessible world-class diving destinations, alongside desert excursions into the Sinai’s dramatic mountains.

Top Things To Do in Sharm El Sheikh

  • Ras Mohammed National Park – a protected marine park with some of the Red Sea’s best diving and snorkeling sites
  • Tiran Island snorkeling – coral reef sites accessible by day boat, known for vibrant fish life
  • Mount Sinai sunrise hike – a night hike to watch sunrise from the mountain where Moses is traditionally said to have received the Ten Commandments
  • Naama Bay – Sharm’s main tourist strip, with restaurants, shops, and evening entertainment

Best Tours and Experiences in Sharm El Sheikh

Private Dinner Cruise On Vip Yacht Sharm El Sheikh

Private Dinner Cruise On Vip Yacht Sharm El Sheikh

★ 5.0 (43)
From USD 450

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Sinai Desert Safari: Sunset & Stargazing

Sinai Desert Safari: Sunset & Stargazing

★ 5.0 (37)
From USD 37

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Sharm El-Sheikh Desert Safari Quad bike & Camel Ride

Sharm El-Sheikh Desert Safari Quad bike & Camel Ride

★ 5.0 (32)
From USD 30

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Private Cairo Airport Transfer (Pickup or Drop-off Service)

Private Cairo Airport Transfer (Pickup or Drop-off Service)

★ 5.0 (30)
From USD 30

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Private Romantic Nile Felucca Sunset Dinner in Cairo

Private Romantic Nile Felucca Sunset Dinner in Cairo

★ 5.0 (30)
From USD 49

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PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

★ 5.0 (27)
From USD 447.59

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Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh

March to May and September to November offer warm but not extreme temperatures for diving and desert excursions alike.

Practical Tips for Visiting Sharm El Sheikh

  • Book diving trips through a reputable, certified dive operator, especially for Ras Mohammed’s more advanced sites
  • The Mount Sinai hike starts at night to reach the summit for sunrise, dress in warm layers despite the desert setting
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen, coral reef protection is taken seriously in marine park areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need diving certification for Sharm El Sheikh?

No, many operators offer beginner snorkeling and introductory dives, though certified divers get access to more advanced sites.

How many days do you need in Sharm El Sheikh?

Four to five days allows time for diving, snorkeling, and at least one desert excursion like Mount Sinai.

Final Thoughts

Sharm El Sheikh is built around the Red Sea’s reefs, budget most of your time for diving or snorkeling excursions rather than the town itself.