Sharm El Sheikh holidays

Sharm El Sheikh holidays really push the boat out when it comes to scuba diving. Plus, fancy boutiques, family-run diners and big bazaars all call this place home.

Sinai setting

You’ll find Sharm El Sheikh – or Sharm as it’s known locally – planted near the bottom of the Sinai Peninsula. This region of Egypt stocks everything from dune-filled deserts to towering mountain ranges that peak at well over 2,000 metres tall – perfect for 4x4 safari fans. The city itself, meanwhile, boasts a coastal plot, meaning that soft belts of sand and paddle-friendly waters are at your fingertips. And, if shopping’s on your to-do list, the lively centre lines up heaps of top-brand boutiques and bustling bazaars.

A spooling shoreline

Sharm lays claim to 35 kilometres of coastline, where apricot-coloured sand slowly sinks into the bath-warm waters of the Red Sea. The water itself stays nice and shallow for the first 20 feet, making it ideal for splashing sessions with the little ones. The main attraction in this part of Egypt, though, is the scuba diving. You’ve got more than 250 coral reefs to explore, most of which are home to rainbow-coloured schools of fish, sea turtles and stingrays. If you’d prefer to leave the oxygen tank behind, the snorkelling’s just as stellar.

Up-tempo nightlife

Right in the centre of Sharm, there’s a big, brash strip. It’s home to the likes of Pacha and the Hard Rock Café, and it pulls in a throng of lively partygoers. Expect everything from music concerts and themed discos to pool and foam parties to pack out the after-dark agenda. For those who like their nights a bit less neon-lit, there’s a good collection of chilled-out cocktail bars on the waterfront. And wherever you go, you’re bound to find some belly dancing.

Popular hotels in Sharm El Sheikh

Top things to see and do in Sharm El Sheikh

Beaches

The big beach

Naama Bay fends off all the competition when it comes to Sharm El Sheikh’s most popular beach. This long, sandy bay swelled into life in the Eighties when the first hotel appeared, and it’s gone from strength to strength ever since. A promenade backs the sand, lined with enough restaurants, cafes and bars to keep you fed and watered for a year.

The secret beach

El Fanar Beach in Ras Um El Seid is a beach of two halves. You’ve got the main section, which swells with visitors between late morning and mid-afternoon, and the outer parts, which no-one tends to visit. Ask your taxi driver to drop you off at the end of the beach road. Entry's about £6, but you’ll get a lounger and a towel for your money.

Shopping

Bargain buys

Sharm Old Market, near Ras Um El Seid, is your best bet for bagging a bargain. As well as fruit, veg and meat, you can pick up genuine handmade Bedouin carpets, leather goods, and cheap-and-cheerful souvenirs, like singing toy camels.

Mid-range buys

For familiar labels, head to Il Mercato in Hadaba. This smart, open-air mall models its good looks on an Italian amphitheatre. Brand names like The Body Shop and Timberland line up next to the likes of Starbucks and Costa, either side of a wide pedestrian walkway. Browse the rails, grab a bite to eat, and finish with a frozen coffee.

Designer buys

If you want to splash out on genuine Egyptian woven goods, plus glass and earthenware, make a date at Aladin – there’s a branch in Naama Bay. Nearby Sharm El Sheikh Marketplace houses 20-plus stores selling carpets and high-end jewellery. And elsewhere, Naama Centre shopping mall next to the Hard Rock Café is the place for gold and silver, onyx and fine Egyptian silk and cotton clothes.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

If shisha pipes and bar snacks take your fancy, try one of the rooftop bars in Naama Bay. Or, if you’ve rather err on the side of tradition, book a Bedouin excursion and enjoy a star-lit dinner in the desert.

Lively evenings

Sharm El Sheikh’s heart pulses the fastest in Naama Bay. You’ll find no shortage of casinos, bars and lounges here, along with a big nightclub. There’s also a scattering of bars in SoHo Square, in Sharks Bay – the highlight here is Egypt’s one and only ice bar.

Food & drink

Kebabs

Not just reserved for late-night revellers, the kebab is a staple in these parts. Chunks of lamb and juicy on-the-bone chops are marinated, skewered, and grilled over charcoals. The meat's then tucked into a pitta pocket, along with salad and pickles.

Meze

If you thought meze belonged exclusively to Greece, think again. In Egypt, assortments of miniature plates often take the place of a starter or even a main meal. You’ll usually get things like flatbread, tabbouleh and meatballs, served alongside dips like hummus and baba ghanoush – mashed aubergine with olive oil and seasoning.

Stuffed pigeon

Believe it or not, this is a bit of a delicacy in Egypt. You’ll see it on the menu at most traditional restaurants in Sharm El Sheikh – sometimes it’s listed as ‘hamam mahsy’, its Egyptian name. The bird is usually roasted and filled with rice and onion to make an indulgent, filling supper.

Ful medames

The Egyptians like their food spicy, but we’re talking a gentle nudge rather than a kick. To make this dish, chilli and garlic are added to fava beans. The beans are then mashed with onions and tomatoes. Sometimes it’s eaten for breakfast, when the mixture is topped with a fried egg and scooped up with pitta bread.

Mint tea

Mint tea, or shai, is the drink of choice in Egypt. Loose tea is steeped for around three minutes, then poured into small glass tumblers and sweetened with up to five teaspoons of sugar. It’s often drunk with baklava or konafa – cooked batter stuffed with nuts – as an after-dinner treat.

Average Weather in Sharm El Sheikh

Popular holidays

All Inclusive

All Inclusive

Last Minute

Last Minute

Luxury Holidays

Luxury Holidays

Family Holidays

Family Holidays

Facts about Sharm El Sheikh

Currency
Egyptian Pound
(EGP)
Language
Arabic
Time zone
GMT +2
Flight duration
5 hours 30 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

Is Sharm El Sheikh safe for tourists?

Sharm El Sheikh is generally considered safe for tourists but you should always check the government’s foreign travel advice for up-to-date safety information before you travel. Remember to take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance to cover you while you’re away. As with any destination, try to be mindful of your valuables and surroundings in crowded areas, keep an eye on your belongings at public beaches, and be wary of unsolicited offers and services.

What's the nightlife like in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. The main hub for evening entertainment is Naama Bay, where you'll find bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. SOHO Square is another popular area, featuring upscale dining options, bars, and an ice bar. Many all-inclusive resorts host their own evening entertainment programmes with live music, shows, and themed parties. For a more relaxed evening, beachfront cafés and lounges offer shisha and cocktails with sea views. While alcohol is available in tourist areas, it's worth noting that Egypt is predominantly a Muslim country, so some venues may have restrictions.

What are the beaches like in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh is renowned for its vast, sandy beaches. The coastline features sunset-coloured sands and the warm clear waters of the Red Sea. Popular beaches like Naama Bay offer a lively atmosphere with watersports and beachside cafés, while Shark's Bay provides a more relaxed setting that’s ideal for snorkelling. Ras Um Sid is famous for its coral reefs, making it a favourite among divers and snorkellers.

Many beaches are part of hotel complexes, offering amenities like sunloungers and umbrellas. The year-round warm climate and the Red Sea's rich marine life make Sharm El Sheikh's beaches a major draw for those seeking both relaxation and underwater adventures.

What activities can you do in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers a variety of exciting activities, from snorkelling and scuba diving in the Red Sea to thrilling desert safaris and quad biking. One minute you can be exploring Ras Mohammed National Park, the next, enjoying a glass-bottom boat tours, or taking a camel ride. The Old Market provides a dose of local culture, while daytrips to Mount Sinai and St. Catherine's Monastery offer a glimpse into Egypt’s history.

How do you get around in Sharm El Sheikh?

In Sharm El Sheikh, there are lots of ways to get around. Taxis are readily available, but it's best to agree on the fare beforehand. Many hotels offer shuttle buses to popular spots, while minibuses provide a cheap, though sometimes complex, public transport option. If you prefer driving, car rentals are available. Additionally, areas like Naama Bay are compact enough to explore on foot.

What is the food like in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers a diverse culinary scene, including traditional Egyptian dishes, fresh seafood from the Red Sea and international cuisine in hotel restaurants and tourist areas. You’ll find plenty of beach bars and cafés serving snacks and drinks, and Middle Eastern specialities on the menu like shawarma – marinated, grilled meat stuffed inside a pitta-style wrap – and falafel. Save room for dessert if you’ve got a sweet tooth, too – flaky baklava packed with chopped nuts and sticky syrup is on lots of menus.

When is the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?

The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh is typically in spring and autumn, when the temperature hovers between a pleasant 24 and 32°C. Summer months from June to September can be extremely hot, although the coast benefits from a cooling sea breeze. The water temperature is pleasant year-round, making it great for water activities in any season.

What is the flight time from the UK to Sharm El Sheikh?

Direct flights from the UK to Sharm El Sheikh typically take around five to five and a half hours, depending on the UK departure airport.

Where can you shop in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers loads of options for shopping. Sharm Old Town is perfect for traditional souvenirs and local goods, while SOHO Square is home to more international brands. For a larger shopping complex, Genena City in Naama Bay includes shops, a food court, and a cinema.

What are the top family-friendly hotels in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers several excellent family-friendly hotels catering to guests of all ages. The TUI BLUE Sensatori Coral Sea is a popular choice, featuring a collection of pools, a kids' club, and dedicated family suites. The Rixos Premium Seagate offers a luxurious family experience with its massive aqua park and roster of children's activities. The Coral Sea Water World Resort is also highly rated for its family-friendly amenities, including several pools, a waterpark on-site, and a dedicated children's area.

What are the best all-inclusive resorts in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh boasts several top-notch all-inclusive resorts for every type of traveller. The TUI BLUE Sensatori Coral Sea stands out for its luxury amenities, restaurants, and beachfront location. Another popular choice is the adults-only Meraki Resort, with its stylish beach club aesthetic and á la carte dining scene. For families, the Rixos Premium Seagate is highly rated for its waterpark and kid-friendly amenities. The Steigenberger Alcazaris another great option, with several pools, swim-up rooms and a private beach.

What are the top waterparks in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers several exciting waterparks. Cleo Park stands out with its ancient Egyptian theme and variety of water attractions. For those staying in or near SOHO Square, the Aqua Park City provides a convenient waterpark experience. Many all-inclusive resorts in Sharm El Sheikh, such as the Rixos Premium Seagate, also feature their own waterparks where you can make a splash without leaving the resort premises. The Albatros Aqua Park, part of the Royal Albatros Moderna, is another option with a wide range of slides and pools.

Are there adults-only resorts in Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes, Sharm El Sheikh offers several adults-only resorts and hotels catering to travellers seeking a more tranquil, grown-up atmosphere. The Rixos Sharm El Sheikh is a popular adults-only resort, known for its serene overwater cabanas and range of restaurants. The whitewashed Meraki Resort brings all the grown-up Ibiza vibes to Egypt, while Baron Palms delivers a good dose of local culture in its decor, dining and entertainment options.

What are the best scuba diving courses in Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh offers plenty of reputable dive centres for taking scuba diving courses of all levels. Some popular options include Camel Dive Club & Hotel, Emperor Divers, Sinai Divers, Oonas Dive Club, and Red Sea Diving College.

Where are the best places to stay in Sharm El Sheikh?

One of the most popular areas to stay in Sharm El Sheikh is Naama Bay, which is a central location with a good blend of beaches, nightlife, and shopping. Shark’s Bay is seen as a quieter area with more luxury resorts and serene beaches, while Nabq Bay is a newer area known for its all-inclusive resorts and relaxed atmosphere. If its snorkelling and diving you’re after, Ras Um Sid is known as the best spot.

Ready to start searching for your trip to Sharm El Sheikh?

Take a look at our best deals, add handy holiday extras, or keep looking for travel inspiration.

View Sharm El Sheikh deals