Sharm El Sheikh Things to Do: The Complete First-Timer’s Guide
Sharm El Sheikh sits at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula.Where the desert meets one of the world’s most spectacular coral reef systems. Whether you’re drawn by the Red Sea’s legendary dive sites, luxury beach resorts. Or Bedouin desert culture, this destination delivers on all fronts. Travel experts at VacationsInEgypt.com consistently recommend it as one of Egypt’s most visitor-friendly cities — safe, well-developed, and endlessly varied.
This guide covers the essential Sharm El Sheikh things to experience, plan around, and know before you book.
Top Sharm El Sheikh Things to Do for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors should anchor their trip around the region’s most defining features: its coral reefs and the rugged Sinai mountains. A few places stand out immediately.
Ras Mohammed National Park is the crown jewel — home to some of the world’s highest-rated snorkeling and diving spots, with visibility regularly exceeding 20 meters.
Naama Bay is the city’s social heart. Restaurants, beach clubs, and shops line the waterfront, making it the easiest base for exploring what Sharm El Sheikh has to offer.
SOHO Square is a pedestrian entertainment complex popular with families, featuring outdoor restaurants, an ice rink, and evening performances — one of the more relaxed Sharm El Sheikh things to enjoy after dark.
The Old Market (Sharm Al Maya) is where you’ll find spices, handcrafted souvenirs, and the beautiful Al Sahaba Mosque. It’s the city’s most authentic neighborhood and worth an afternoon.
For a deeper breakdown of the best attractions, see the full guide on the top 10 things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.
Sharm El Sheikh Things to Do If You Don’t Dive
Diving draws millions of visitors here — but it’s far from the only reason to come. Non-divers have a rich menu of Sharm El Sheikh things to experience.
Glass-Bottom Boat Trips
These cruises pass directly over the reef, giving you a window-seat view of the coral without getting wet. A practical and genuinely beautiful option for families with young children or anyone who prefers to stay dry.
Desert Excursions
The Sinai interior offers a landscape that couldn’t feel more different from the coast. Quad biking across the dunes is a popular afternoon activity, but for something more immersive, a Bedouin safari and stargazing tour combines a traditional dinner with astronomical observation far from city lights. On a clear night, the sky is extraordinary.
Planning Your Trip: What to Know Before You Go
Sharm El Sheikh is more spread out than it looks on a map, and the neighborhood you choose shapes the character of your stay.
- Naama Bay — Central, walkable, and lively. The best base for first-timers who want easy access to restaurants and beach clubs.
- Sharks Bay — Quieter and more residential, close to SOHO Square. A good fit for couples looking for something more laid-back.
- Nabq Bay — Home to large all-inclusive resorts, slightly breezier, and popular with kitesurfers.
For full details on entry requirements, weather patterns, and hotel zones, the Sharm El Sheikh destination guide at VacationsInEgypt.com is a reliable starting point.
Is Sharm El Sheikh Safe for Tourists?
Yes — and meaningfully so. The city operates with security infrastructure that’s uncommon for a resort destination. Entry and exit roads have checkpoints, tourist police patrol all major areas, and hotel and airport security typically exceeds international standards.
Petty crime is rare compared to most European capital cities. Standard travel precautions — keeping valuables secure in crowded market areas — apply, but Sharm El Sheikh is widely regarded as one of Egypt’s safest and most tourist-ready cities.
Tips from Local Travel Experts
A few practical notes that make a real difference:
Best time to visit: September through November and March through May offer the most comfortable temperatures — ideal for both beach days and desert excursions. Summer heat can be intense inland.
Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency, but US dollars and euros are widely accepted at most hotels and tourist-facing businesses. ATMs are plentiful throughout Naama Bay and SOHO Square.
What to pack: Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly encouraged — the coral reefs here are protected, and conventional sunscreens cause documented harm. A light jacket is worth bringing for desert evenings, which cool down sharply after sunset.
For personalized itineraries and full booking support, explore the complete range of Egypt travel resources at VacationsInEgypt.com.
