Sharm El Sheikh is much more than a beautiful Red Sea resort. Here, vibrant coral reefs meet golden desert landscapes, traditional markets sit alongside modern entertainment, and a relaxing beach holiday can easily become an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time, travelling with family, looking for adventure, or simply want to experience more beyond your hotel, Sharm El Sheikh offers something for every kind of traveller.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.
1. Explore Ras Mohammed National Park
One of Egypt’s most spectacular natural attractions, Ras Mohammed National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Sharm El Sheikh.
Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba, this protected area is famous for its crystal-clear waters, colourful coral reefs and remarkable marine biodiversity.
Visitors can explore the park by land or sea. A land excursion offers opportunities to discover scenic viewpoints, mangrove forests, the famous Magic Lake and the park’s distinctive desert landscapes. A boat trip, on the other hand, allows you to explore some of the Red Sea’s most impressive coral reefs.
For snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, Ras Mohammed is particularly special. Its underwater world is home to colourful tropical fish, impressive coral formations and a variety of fascinating marine creatures.
Whether you prefer exploring nature on land or discovering the underwater world, Ras Mohammed offers an experience that deserves a place on your Sharm El Sheikh itinerary.
2. Discover the Red Sea by Boat
A boat trip is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the beauty of Sharm El Sheikh.
Imagine cruising across turquoise waters, feeling the sea breeze, enjoying the sunshine and admiring the dramatic coastline of the Sinai Peninsula. Along the way, you can stop at beautiful snorkelling locations to discover the colourful underwater world.
Many excursions include several stops for swimming and snorkelling, giving visitors the opportunity to observe coral reefs and tropical fish in their natural environment. Some trips also include lunch and refreshments on board.
One particularly popular experience is visiting White Island, a beautiful sandbank surrounded by shallow, clear water. Depending on sea conditions and the excursion itinerary, visitors may have the opportunity to walk along the sand, take photographs and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Boat trips are suitable for couples, families and groups of friends. You can choose from different types of excursions, including larger shared boats, smaller private boats and luxury yacht experiences.
It is an excellent way to enjoy the Red Sea beyond the hotel beach.
3. Go on a Desert Safari
Beyond the beaches and coral reefs, Sharm El Sheikh reveals another fascinating world: the golden desert of Sinai.
A desert safari gives visitors the opportunity to explore the rugged landscape, experience traditional Bedouin hospitality and enjoy an adventure far away from the busy resort areas.
One of the most popular activities is quad biking. After a safety briefing, visitors ride across sandy tracks and desert valleys, discovering the dramatic scenery of the Sinai mountains.
Another option is a jeep safari, which allows you to travel deeper into the desert and explore areas that are difficult to reach by ordinary vehicles.
Many excursions include a visit to a Bedouin-style camp, where guests can relax, enjoy traditional tea and learn more about local customs and hospitality. Evening programmes may include dinner, music and traditional entertainment beneath the desert sky.
For a particularly memorable experience, consider a sunset safari. Watching the sun disappear behind the Sinai mountains creates a beautiful contrast of colours across the desert landscape.
A desert safari is ideal for adventure lovers and anyone interested in discovering a different side of Sharm El Sheikh.
4. Experience Naama Bay
Naama Bay is one of the most famous and lively areas in Sharm El Sheikh. It is a popular destination for visitors looking for shopping, restaurants, cafés and evening entertainment.
The area combines a beautiful beachfront atmosphere with a lively pedestrian promenade. During the day, visitors can enjoy the beach, water activities and nearby cafés. As evening approaches, Naama Bay becomes increasingly vibrant, with restaurants, shops and entertainment venues welcoming visitors.
You can spend time browsing souvenir shops, enjoying Egyptian food, trying international cuisine or simply sitting at a café and watching the atmosphere around you.
Naama Bay is also a convenient place for visitors who want to experience the resort’s nightlife, with several bars and entertainment venues in the surrounding area.
Whether you visit for shopping, dining or a relaxing evening walk, Naama Bay offers a lively introduction to the social side of Sharm El Sheikh.
5. Visit the Old Market
For a more traditional Egyptian atmosphere, make sure to visit Sharm El Sheikh’s Old Market, also known as the Old Town.
Unlike the modern resort areas, the Old Market offers a glimpse of traditional Egyptian shopping and local culture. Its streets are filled with shops selling souvenirs, spices, perfumes, handmade products, traditional clothing and decorative items.
It is an excellent place to look for gifts and discover products inspired by Egyptian and Bedouin traditions.
The area is also famous for its restaurants and traditional cafés, where visitors can enjoy Egyptian dishes, freshly prepared seafood and traditional drinks.
One of the most recognisable landmarks is the beautiful Al Sahaba Mosque, whose impressive architecture and illuminated exterior make it particularly attractive in the evening.
Take your time exploring the narrow streets, enjoy the atmosphere, bargain politely when shopping and stop for a meal at one of the local restaurants.
A visit to the Old Market is not simply about shopping; it is an opportunity to experience another side of Sharm El Sheikh.
6. Spend an Evening at SOHO Square
If you are looking for a modern entertainment destination, SOHO Square is one of the best places to spend an evening in Sharm El Sheikh.
Located in the White Knight Bay area, this lively entertainment complex offers a variety of restaurants, cafés, shops and activities for visitors of different ages.
You can enjoy dinner at one of its restaurants, have a drink at a café, watch live entertainment or simply walk around and enjoy the atmosphere.
SOHO Square is also known for its illuminated fountains and outdoor entertainment areas, which create an attractive setting for evening photographs.
Families can enjoy selected entertainment and activities, while couples and groups of friends can explore the dining and nightlife options.
Whether you want a relaxed dinner or a lively evening out, SOHO Square offers a different experience from the traditional beach and resort atmosphere.
7. Discover Nabq Nature Reserve
Nature lovers should consider visiting Nabq Nature Reserve, a protected natural area located north of Sharm El Sheikh.
Nabq offers a different landscape from the city’s busy beaches and entertainment areas. Its environment includes mangrove forests, coastal lagoons, desert landscapes and important habitats for birds and other wildlife.
One of its most interesting features is the mangrove ecosystem. These remarkable trees grow in coastal saltwater environments and provide shelter and feeding grounds for various marine organisms and bird species.
Visitors can explore parts of the reserve, enjoy its peaceful surroundings and discover the natural beauty of the Sinai coastline.
The area is particularly appealing to travellers interested in photography, birdwatching and eco-tourism.
A visit to Nabq is also an opportunity to understand the importance of protecting Egypt’s natural environments and the wildlife that depends on them.
As it is a protected area, visitors should follow designated routes and respect local conservation regulations.
8. Go Diving or Snorkelling
Sharm El Sheikh is internationally recognised as one of the world’s outstanding diving destinations. Its location along the Red Sea provides access to impressive coral reefs, colourful marine life and underwater landscapes.
For beginners, snorkelling is an easy way to discover this fascinating world. With a mask, snorkel and fins, you can explore shallow reef areas and observe tropical fish swimming among the coral formations.
Many hotels have access to coral reefs, while organised excursions take visitors to some of the region’s most popular snorkelling locations.
For those who want to explore deeper waters, scuba diving offers an entirely different experience. Certified divers can discover reef walls, underwater formations and famous dive sites such as Ras Mohammed and the Straits of Tiran.
First-time divers can also consider an introductory diving experience under the supervision of qualified instructors, subject to medical and safety requirements.
You do not need to be an experienced diver to appreciate the beauty of the Red Sea. Even a short snorkelling session can become one of the most memorable moments of your holiday.
Remember to use reef-safe practices, avoid touching coral and follow your guide’s instructions.
9. Take a Day Trip to Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine
For travellers interested in history, religion and spectacular mountain scenery, a trip to Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine offers a very different experience from the coastal attractions of Sharm El Sheikh.
Located in the heart of the Sinai Peninsula, Mount Sinai is traditionally associated with the biblical story of Moses. It attracts visitors from different countries and religious backgrounds who come to explore its spiritual and historical significance.
Some organised excursions include an overnight journey to climb the mountain before sunrise. The climb can be physically demanding, but reaching the summit and watching the first sunlight illuminate the surrounding mountains is a remarkable experience.
At the foot of the mountain lies Saint Catherine’s Monastery, one of the world’s oldest continuously functioning Christian monasteries. The historic complex is recognised for its religious significance, ancient architecture and remarkable collection of manuscripts and icons.
Visitors should check the monastery’s current opening arrangements and access restrictions before travelling, as access to certain areas may be limited.
This excursion requires more planning than most Sharm El Sheikh activities, particularly because of the journey and mountain climb. However, it offers an opportunity to discover the historical and spiritual heritage of Sinai.
10. Simply Enjoy the Red Sea
Not every memorable holiday experience needs to involve an organised excursion or a busy itinerary.
Sometimes, the best thing to do in Sharm El Sheikh is simply to enjoy the Red Sea.
Spend a morning on the beach, swim in the clear water, relax under the sunshine or explore the nearby reef with a snorkelling mask.
You can enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the sea, read a book beside the pool or spend the afternoon watching the changing colours of the water.
As evening approaches, find a beautiful place along the coast to watch the sunset. Enjoy dinner with a sea view, listen to the gentle sound of the waves and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.
Sharm El Sheikh has a special ability to bring adventure and relaxation together. You can spend one day exploring the desert, another discovering coral reefs and the next doing absolutely nothing but enjoying the sunshine.
Sometimes, that is exactly what a holiday should be.
Make the Most of Your Sharm El Sheikh Holiday
Sharm El Sheikh offers much more than beautiful hotels and sunny beaches. From the protected landscapes of Ras Mohammed and Nabq to the excitement of desert safaris, traditional markets, modern entertainment and the underwater wonders of the Red Sea, the destination offers experiences for different interests and travel styles.
Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, take the opportunity to explore beyond your resort and discover what makes this part of Egypt so special.
And finally, don’t make the mistake of filling every hour of your holiday.
Sometimes the best thing to do in Sharm El Sheikh is simply slow down.
Spend a morning by the Red Sea. Swim. Snorkel from the beach. Read a book. Watch the sunset. Enjoy dinner with a sea view.
Sharm El Sheikh is a destination where adventure and relaxation can exist side by side.
SharmStan – Explore More. Experience More.
