What was a quiet Bedouin fishing village only decades ago has grown into an international resort city known for its coral reefs, sunny weather, seaside resorts, world-class diving sites, desert adventures, and culture. Today travelers come to Sharm not only for relaxation, but to experience the unique contrast that defines Sinai itself — mountains, sea, desert, and culture all in one place, with easy logistics for exploring nearby destinations.
Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
Discover the spirit of Sinai
Sharm El Sheikh is one of Egypt's most remarkable destinations, where desert mountains meet the clear waters of the Red Sea. The city is known for its coral reefs, warm climate, coastal atmosphere, and the unique variety of experiences available within short distances.
A day of contrasts
What makes Sharm different from many beach destinations is the contrast visitors experience throughout the day:
- In the morning, travelers may find themselves surrounded by mountain landscapes and open desert roads.
- By afternoon, they can be snorkeling above coral reefs or relaxing beside turquoise water.
- In the evening, the atmosphere shifts toward cafés, seaside lounges, local markets, and desert nights beneath the stars.
For travelers looking for adventure, relaxation, culture, or marine life, Sharm El Sheikh offers experiences that combine all of these elements naturally within the landscape of Sinai.
Explore the Red Sea
The Red Sea is the centre of life in Sharm El Sheikh. The coastline is famous for crystal-clear water, coral formations, and marine biodiversity that attracts visitors from around the world. The underwater scenery here is considered among the most beautiful in the region, making snorkeling and diving some of the city's most popular activities.
Visitors can choose between relaxed boat trips, private yacht experiences, professional diving excursions, or simple beach snorkeling close to shore. Many reef areas remain accessible directly from beaches and hotel coastlines, so guests enjoy the sea without long travel times.
- Ras Mohammed National Park — coral reefs, dramatic underwater walls, and rich sea life. The area is popular for both snorkeling and diving boat trips.
- Tiran Island — clear waters and reef systems make this an ideal setting for sea excursions and yacht trips.
- Shark's Bay — beautiful sea views, resort beaches, and easy reef access for a calmer coastal atmosphere.
Experience the Sinai Desert
Beyond the coastline, the landscape changes dramatically into the open desert and mountains of Sinai. Desert experiences are an essential part of visiting Sharm El Sheikh — they reveal a completely different side of the region.
The Sinai desert is known for its wide valleys, rocky mountain formations, golden sand, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often describe the desert as one of the most memorable parts of their journey because of the silence and scale of the landscape.
Popular desert activities include:
- Quad biking
- ATV safaris
- Camel rides
- Off-road mountain drives
- Bedouin dinners
- Stargazing experiences
- Sunrise and sunset desert trips
Many excursions include traditional Bedouin hospitality — local tea, fresh bread, and outdoor dining in the middle of the desert. Travelers looking for mountain scenery and natural formations often visit Colored Canyon and the surrounding Sinai mountain areas. For history and panoramic views, trips toward Mount Sinai remain among the most iconic experiences in the region.
Relax Along the Coastline
Sharm El Sheikh is equally known for relaxation and resort life. The city offers long stretches of coastline with beach clubs, cafés, private bays, and waterfront lounges overlooking the Red Sea. The atmosphere varies across different areas — some are lively and active, others focus on quiet relaxation and sea views.
Naama Bay is one of the most recognised parts of the city, known for its promenade, cafés, restaurants, beach access, and evening atmosphere. Visitors often spend time walking along the waterfront or enjoying restaurants and nightlife after sunset.
For a more peaceful natural setting, Nabq Protected Area combines desert scenery with coastal landscapes and protected natural environments.
Beach experiences in Sharm may include:
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Parasailing
- Paddleboarding
- Jet skiing
- Beach dining
- Sunset lounges
The warm weather throughout most of the year makes outdoor activities and seaside relaxation available in nearly every season.
Places to Visit in Sharm El Sheikh
Beyond beaches and resorts, the city also includes locations that reflect local culture, architecture, and entertainment.
Old Market
Old Market offers a more traditional atmosphere compared to the resort districts. Visitors can explore local shops, cafés, spices, handmade items, and Egyptian street food — a more local side of the city.
Al Sahaba Mosque
Located near the Old Market, Al Sahaba Mosque has become one of the city's architectural landmarks. Its detailed design and evening lighting make it one of the most photographed locations in Sharm El Sheikh.
SOHO Square
SOHO Square is a modern entertainment area known for restaurants, shopping, cafés, live performances, and evening activities. It's especially popular among families and visitors looking for nightlife in a more modern environment.
Farsha Mountain Lounge
Built into the cliffs overlooking the sea, Farsha Mountain Lounge is known for its atmosphere, panoramic views, and sunset setting above the Red Sea.
Discover More of Sinai
Many visitors use Sharm El Sheikh as a starting point for exploring other destinations across Sinai.
One of the most popular nearby destinations is Dahab, a smaller coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere, diving culture, cafés, and seaside character. Nearby, the Blue Hole attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world because of its underwater formations and clear waters.
Travelers looking for mountain scenery and historic surroundings often continue toward Saint Catherine and the surrounding Sinai mountains.
Why Visitors Choose Sharm El Sheikh
What makes Sharm El Sheikh special is not only its beaches or resorts, but the way different landscapes and experiences exist together naturally within one destination.
Visitors can experience:
- Mountains and desert landscapes
- Coral reefs and marine life
- Luxury resorts and local culture
- Adventure activities and relaxation
- Coastal nightlife and quiet natural areas
This combination gives Sharm El Sheikh a unique identity within the Red Sea region and continues to make it one of the most visited destinations in Egypt. For many travelers, the strongest memory of Sharm is not one specific activity, but the feeling of moving between sea, desert, and mountains within a single journey through Sinai.