Sharm El Sheikh Holidays

Sharm El Sheikh: where the Red Sea sparkle meets boujee beach vibes and sizzlin' temps for a top-notch vacay.

Destination Highlights

Year-round amazing weather
An absolute diving and snorkelling hotspot
Stacked with fantastic resorts
Plenty of things to do

What are the best beaches in Sharm el Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh is a proper beach haven, with stunning beaches and seas so clear you can see right to the bottom. Plus, it's a watersports hotspot if you like it a bit more thrilling. Dive into the coral reefs at Ras Mohammed National Park, a snorkeler's paradise stacked to the brim with tropical fish and maybe, if you're lucky, sea turtles! If you prefer to stay dry, soak up the sea views from stunning beaches like the serene Khashaba Beach or the picturesque El Fanar, which is known for its brilliant sunsets. Whether you're up for a submarine-style boat tour, parasailing, or diving, Sharm El Sheikh is a dream destination for beach lovers and sun-seekers.

Naama Bay - The creme de la creme of beaches in Sharm El Sheikh. Whether you're looking to chill with an ice-cold Fanta Lemon in hand or dive into some vibrant underwater adventures, Naama Bay is bouncing all day and all night.
Ras Um Sid - Talk about a snorkelling paradise! The reefs here are top-tier, and the marine life? Dazzling. It's a bit quieter than Naama Bay, making it perfect for those who want a more laid-back day on a whopper of a beach.
Shark's Bay - Don't let the name spook you; it's mega safe and mega beautiful. Ideal for families and kiddos, the shallow waters here are perfect for a first-time snorkel. Plus, it's a great spot to kick back wand just enjoy the view, too.
Nabq Bay - Nabq is a bit of the underdog, but boy, is it a gem! Protected as a natural park, it boasts some of the most pristine environments around. If you're into nature and a quieter scene, Nabq Bay will be right up your alley – sizzling in its natural beauty!
Terrazzina Beach - Terrazzina is your go-to if you like it a bit livelier. This beach is always buzzing with energy, making it a mahoosive hit with the younger crowd. Think beach parties, swanky cocktails, and tunes to vibe to all day long...

What are the best hotels in Sharm el Sheikh?

Whether you're after a family adventure, a romantic retreat, or simply a place to unwind and soak up the sun, Sharm El Sheikh has a hotel to suit every taste and budget (including some cracking last minute deals). From plush resorts with all the trimmings to swanky hideaways perfect for those on the hunt for a bit of rest and relaxation - here's our pick of the top hotels that promise to make your stay nothing short of proper good.

The Cleopatra Luxury Resort - this resort blends luxury with comfort, offering a range of activities from watersports to spa treatments, and there are a TON of restaurants to enjoy
Savoy Hotel - can't go wrong with a Savoy, and this one's got 5 pools to dunk into (including a 3-tier lagoon pool!), plus activities for the kiddos and a bunch of food and drink venues to hand
Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh - known for its friendly staff and attention to detail, this place couldn't be closer to the beach if it tried, with a poolside BBQ restaurant, a 24-hour lobby bar, a whopper of an Olympic pool, and an adults-only seawater pool for when you want to avoid the kids
Sea Beach Aqua Park Resort - decked out with a lazy river and an epic waterpark for the kiddos, this place is great for families, with entertainment for all ages, an ice cream station and popcorn stand, a swim-up bar, and a bunch of dining options
Regency Plaza Aqua Resort and Spa - perched right along its own private beachfront, this place has lagoon-style pools to cool off in, a mega waterpark, loads of restaurants (serving everything from fresh seafood to pizza), and even a spa for the ultimate pamper sesh

Sharm El Sheikh travel guide

🥳 Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh for groups

If you're ready to get the gang ready for some desert dazzle, then Sharm El Sheikh's calling your name. Dive into snorkel-tastic coral reefs by day, then hit the action-packed beach bars by night. The Naama promenade is where it's at for open-air clubs, live DJs and enough glow sticks to light up space. And if you and your squad are looking for more of a boujee vibe? Nab a cabana over at Soho Square, where you can sip, dip and chill by the pool. That's your Instagram stories sorted...

❤️ Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh for couples

When it comes to couple goals, Sharm has it all. You've gotta start with a sunset cruise along the Red Sea (kind of a no-brainer), complete with cocktails in hand and views to swoon over. Don't forget all that delish seafood too, along with otherworldly coral gardens and the iconic Old Market for a nice little stroll after dinner. You've got spice-scented souks to explore, candlelit restaurants for those all-important date nights, and a ton of stalls where you can snag a souvenir to remember the whole thing. Perf.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh for families

Looking for family fun that's more about splashing than slurping? You have to take the kiddos to Ras Mohammed National Park for a 10/10 snorkelling adventure. Think colourful fish everywhere - it's giving major Finding Nemo vibes, and it'll score you some serious parent points. For something easy-breezy and laidback, the gorg sands of Shark's Bay are perfect for a spot of sunbathing and sandcastle-building - the perfect combo, in our book. There are even rock pools to explore, and you can book a cheeky camel ride right along the seafront. And for all those adrenaline-junkie teens, they'll love the Aqua Park decked out with waterslides and epic wave pools. It's like a non-stop splash party.

💰 How to do Sharm El Sheikh on a budget

Sharm can be as boujee or budget-friendly as you fancy. When you've got backdrops as beaut as the Red Sea, it's a sure sign that some things can be fabulous and free. Accommodation-wise, you can steer clear of the posh resorts and go for something more budget-friendly (but equally as cool and fun). And the best thing about this place is that there are local markets dotted all around, selling everything from spices to trinkets, so bagging a bargain is pretty much a traditional activity. We can get on board.

💃 Where to go for stag and hen parties in Sharm El Sheikh

Planning a stag or hen do can be a right faff, but luckily Sharm knows how to bring the fun. We've got two words for you: yacht party. Need we say more? Hit one of these bad boys up on the Red Sea, and you'll be in for boozy beats and breathtaking views while you're at it. You're welcome. Prefer to stick to dry land? Soho Square is a hotspot for swanky bars and always-packed dancefloors, while the desert is your playground for daytime activities like quad bike tours. Now that's the kind of team-building we can get behind. Just make sure to double-check the policy for whatever hotel you've got your eye on - while most will welcome you with open arms, some aren't super keen on stag and hen antics.

Popular Sharm El Sheikh hotels

Stunning Sharm El Sheikh resorts

Weather in Sharm El Sheikh

JAN

21^°C

FEB

22^°C

MAR

24^°C

APR

26^°C

MAY

30^°C

JUN

33^°C

JUL

35^°C

AUG

35^°C

SEP

33^°C

OCT

30^°C

NOV

23^°C

DEC

22^°C

This Egyptian gem is like a summer soiree that never ends – bronzed beaches, coral reefs, toasty temps of 20-35°C, and a sun that just won’t quit.

Now, here's the cheeky part: the weather in Sharm el Sheikh doesn't care much for winter. It's just not its style. While the rest of the world's bundling up from December to February, Sharm's lounging at a lovely 18-25°C. Might be a breeze here and there, but nothing a beach umbrella won't handle.

And then summer struts in, May to October, with a sizzling 30-35°C. That's right, the Red Sea's putting on a show, the sand's as warm as toast, and the vibes? Pure holiday magic. Get that sun cream on, love, you're in for a tan!

Spring and autumn are no wallflowers either. They shimmy in at a sweet 20-30°C, ideal for snorkelling, camel riding, or just a good old-fashioned beach bumming.

FAQs

It takes about six hours to fly to Sharm el Sheikh from the UK.

Sharm el Sheikh is one hour ahead of the time in the UK.

The official currency of Sharm el Sheikh is the Egyptian pound.

The official language spoken in Sharm el Sheikh is Arabic.

Find out more about:

All Inclusive Holidays in Sharm El Sheikh

North Africa’s beachiest destinations

Desert safari in Sharm el Sheikh

Get the full desert experience with an adventurous safari trip! Explore the vast golden landscapes, magnificent mountains and huge rocky canyons of the Sharm El Sheikh desert, it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience. There are many adventurous tours to choose from, whether you fancy a traditional camel ride trip or you’d prefer to whizz across the sands on an exhilarating quad biking quest, there’s a desert adventure to suit everyone. You can even add enjoy a dinner in the desert and spend time stargazing as the sun sets for a true Egyptian experience.

Ras Mohamed National Park

If you love the ocean, then you’ve got to pay a visit to the Ras Mohamed National Park! This incredible space offers a chance to explore some of the world’s most varied marine life, dive in to the tranquil turquoise waters to get a glimpse at dreamy coloured corals, fascinating fish species and other magical marine life. You can take a boat trip out into the ocean and stop off for an unforgettable snorkelling experience, or enjoy the serene paradise views from the shady shorelines. The choice is yours, but one things for sure this spectacular place is not to be missed if you’re stopping in Sharm el Sheikh.

Get lost in Sharm's souk

Head into the city centre to discover the bustling streets of Sharm’s Old Market. It’s a great place to spend the evening, enjoy some delicious traditional cuisine and take a wander around the small souvenir shops that sit on every street corner. You’ll also find lots of local coffee shops here where you can enjoy sharing shisha with friends and savour some traditional Egyptian coffee.

What events can I go to in Sharm el Sheikh?
Sharm El Sheikh is always buzzing with events that are suitable for any kind of holidaymaker, from underwater adventures to cultural festivals and sizzling nightlife. Here are some of the best events that you might want to check out when you're planning your next jollies to this top spot:
- Sharm El Sheikh International Diving Competition - Dive into the deep blue with this thrilling event that attracts divers from around the globe.
- Sharm El Sheikh Film Festival - Film buffs and culture vultures, mark your calendars! This festival showcases international and regional films, offering a platform for filmmakers and adding a splash of glamour to Sharm's sandy shores.
- Egyptian International Yoga Festival - Held at one of the top hotels, this festival is perfect for those looking to unwind and find their zen in a picturesque setting. It's a mix of yoga, meditation, and wellness workshops.
- Sinai Liberation Day - Celebrated on April 25th, this national holiday is marked with various festivities, including parades and fireworks. It's a great time to experience local culture and patriotism.
- Sharm El Sheikh Camel Festival - Experience a dash of local tradition and excitement with camel races, Bedouin music, and dance. It’s a unique cultural event that offers fun for all ages.
- Sharm El Sheikh Asian Film Festival - A newer addition to the cultural scene, this festival celebrates Asian cinema and fosters cross-cultural exchange. It's a must for cinephiles looking to explore diverse narratives.
Where's the best nightlife in Sharm el Sheikh?
Oh, the nightlife in Sharm El Sheikh is absolutely sizzling! If you're looking to dance the night away, sip on swanky cocktails, or just soak up some lively vibes under the stars, here's where the magic happens:
- SOHO Square - This is the beating heart of Sharm's nightlife scene. With a dazzling array of bars, clubs, and restaurants, SOHO Square is where you'll find everything from live music and dance floors to ice bars and shisha lounges. It's a 10/10 spot for a night out!
- Naama Bay - The original hotspot for nightlife in Sharm, Naama Bay has a more laid-back feel but is still popping off with options. Wander along the bay, and you’ll find everything from bustling cafes and bars to nightclubs that keep the party going till the wee hours.
- Pacha Sharm El Sheikh - For the clubbers out there, Pacha is the place to be. Famous for its international DJs and epic beach parties, this club offers a world-class experience with the best sound systems and light shows you can find in Egypt.
- Hard Rock Cafe - Located in Naama Bay, the Hard Rock Cafe is perfect if you’re looking for a mix of good food, great music, and a lively atmosphere. With regular live bands and an impressive collection of rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, it’s a solid choice for a fun night out.
- Space Sharm El Sheikh - Another top spot for electronic music lovers, Space offers a vibrant clubbing experience with regular events featuring top DJs from around the world. The atmosphere here is absolutely electric!
Food & Drink
- Seafood Tagine - A classic Egyptian dish with a local twist, featuring fresh seafood like fish, shrimp, and calamari cooked in a spicy tomato sauce with peppers and Egyptian spices.
- Koshari - This is a street food staple and a must-try. It's a hearty mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions.
- Ful Medames - A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, usually served with a side of fresh bread.
- Grilled Kebabs - Enjoy succulent pieces of marinated meat, typically beef or lamb, grilled to perfection and often served with grilled vegetables and dips.
- Shawarma - Though widely available across the Middle East, trying shawarma in Sharm El Sheikh lets you enjoy this deliciously marinated meat, served in a wrap or pita with veggies and sauce.
- Falafel - These deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans are seasoned with herbs and spices and are a popular snack or meal, often served in a pita.
The food scene in Sharm El Sheikh is a wonderful one. It's a melting pot of flavours where you can savour everything from traditional Egyptian dishes to international cuisines. Here are some top-notch spots and must-try dishes to make your tastebuds dance:
- Fares Seafood - Dive into the deep blue without getting wet! Fares Seafood is renowned for its fresh, mouth-watering seafood dishes. Try the grilled fish, calamari, and seafood soup—each a proper good bite!
- Tam Tam Oriental Café - For a taste of authentic Egyptian flavours, Tam Tam is the spot. Don't miss out on their kofta, and shawarma, and for a sweet treat, the kunafa is just bangin'.
- Camel Bar & Roof - This place is not just about the food but the whole vibe. Enjoy a mix of international and local dishes with a view. Their mezze platters are a must-try along with a cold pint of beer.
- Onions - A lovely spot that offers a cosy dining experience. The menu features both Egyptian and international dishes, with the tagines and mixed grill being particularly scrumptious.
- El Masrien Grill Restaurant - A favourite among locals and tourists alike for its authentic barbecue dishes. The grilled meats are marinated to perfection, offering you a taste of Egypt's rich culinary culture.
- Little Buddha - If you fancy something a bit more international, this Asian-themed restaurant has a sushi bar and serves up some delightful fusion dishes. The ambience is swanky, making it perfect for a special night out.

Places to visit

Naama Bay
Naama Bay is the vibrant heart of Sharm El Sheikh and a beach hotspot offering everything from snorkelling in proper blue waters to lounging under sun umbrellas on its sandy stretch. As evening falls, the promenade buzzes with life, boasting a load of shops selling everything from stylish souvenirs (you'll find that fridge market here) to local spices. And if you fancy a bite, you're sorted right out here. There are places ranging from swanky seafood spots to casual cafes, perfect for sipping on a nice fruity cocktail and watching the sunset. The area transforms into a lively scene at night with bars, clubs, and lounges to keep the fun popping off till dawn. Whether you're after family fun or a night on the town, Naama Bay promises a slice of paradise with a twist of excitement, making it a must-visit spot on any Sharm El Sheikh itinerary.
Old Market
The Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh offers an authentic slice of Egyptian culture and is a must-visit for anyone looking to dive deeper into the local vibe. This bustling bazaar is less touristy than other areas in the region, and this makes it a prime spot for a more genuine shopping experience. Here, you can haggle over handicrafts, pick up unique souvenirs like traditional Bedouin jewellery, or treat yourself to some delish local dishes at quaint eateries scattered throughout the market. The atmosphere is vibrant, with the scents of spices and shisha smoke filling the air. Whether you're on a hunt for a mahoosive bargain or just soaking up the lively scene, the Old Market delivers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Sharm El Sheikh's local charm.
Mount Sinai
It might be a bit further afield than the local beachfront but climbing Mount Sinai from Sharm El Sheikh is a hike that you'll never forget. Imagine trekking up the rugged trails, aiming to reach the summit just as the sun peeks over the horizon! This is the very place where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments, and as you stand at the top, watching the sunrise (or sunset), you'll feel a connection to history that's as deep as it is dazzling. As you hike down, a visit to the ancient St. Catherine's Monastery at the base of the mountain is a must. This experience is a mahoosive mix of adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking beauty, making it a standout adventure during your Sharm El Sheikh jollies!

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Visitors must acquire a £25 Egyptian tourist visa payable in GBP, USD, or Euros. These can be purchased at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters, or from the Egyptian Consulate prior to travel.

We are currently closely following the COVID-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Egypt on the FCO website.

Please be aware that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan will take place between 10/03/2024 and 09/04/2024. During this time, eating, drinking and smoking will be restricted to the hours between sunset and sunrise, and visitors are expected to observe these practices in public spaces as a sign of respect, meaning many cafés and restaurants will close during the day, restrictions on alcohol sales may be in place, and hotel dining for non-Muslim guests may take place in private rooms. Playing music, dancing, and eating in public areas may also be restricted during this time.

Sharm El Sheikh Holidays

Destination Highlights

What are the best beaches in Sharm el Sheikh?

What are the best hotels in Sharm el Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh travel guide

🥳 Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh for groups

❤️ Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh for couples

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh for families

💰 How to do Sharm El Sheikh on a budget

💃 Where to go for stag and hen parties in Sharm El Sheikh

Popular Sharm El Sheikh hotels

Stunning Sharm El Sheikh resorts

Weather in Sharm El Sheikh

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

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FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Sharm el Sheikh?

What’s the time difference between the UK and Sharm el Sheikh?

What currency do they use in Sharm el Sheikh?

What language do they speak in Sharm el Sheikh?

Find out more about:

Desert safari in Sharm el Sheikh

Ras Mohamed National Park

Get lost in Sharm's souk

What events can I go to in Sharm el Sheikh?

Where's the best nightlife in Sharm el Sheikh?

Food & Drink

Places to visit

Naama Bay

Old Market

Mount Sinai

Key facts about Sharm El Sheikh

Flight time

6 hrs

Time difference

+1 hr

Currency

Egyptian pound

Language

Arabic

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Sharm el Sheikh?

Do I need a visa to visit Sharm el Sheikh?

Will COVID-19 affect my holiday to Sharm el Sheikh?

Observing Ramadan