Sharm El Sheikh, perched at the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, is where the desert meets the Red Sea in spectacular fashion. This resort destination offers far more than just beach lounging—it’s a playground for adventure seekers, diving enthusiasts, culture lovers, and relaxation seekers alike.
From world-class coral reefs teeming with marine life to ancient monasteries atop biblical mountains, from thrilling quad biking across golden dunes to sunset cocktails overlooking crystal-clear waters—Sharm El Sheikh packs an incredible variety of experiences into one compact destination.
Whether you’re wondering what to do in Sharm El Sheikh Egypt during your first visit or seeking the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh beyond the typical tourist trail, this guide covers the top 20 activities that make this Red Sea gem unforgettable.
Amon Ra Tours specializes in creating authentic Sharm El Sheikh experiences, from diving expeditions to desert adventures, ensuring you experience the very best this destination has to offer.
Top 20 Best Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
- Dive World-Class Sites in the Red Sea
- Snorkel at Ras Mohammed National Park
- Explore the Straits of Tiran by Boat
- Climb Mount Sinai for Sunrise
- Visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery
- Hike the Colored Canyon
- Experience Quad Biking Desert Safari
- Discover Bedouin Culture and Hospitality
- Snorkel at Sharks Bay
- Explore Ras Um Sid Reef
1. Dive World-Class Sites in the Red Sea
Sharm El Sheikh ranks among the world’s top diving destinations, and for good reason. The convergence of the Gulf of Aqaba and Gulf of Suez creates nutrient-rich waters supporting extraordinarily diverse marine ecosystems.
Must-Visit Dive Sites:
Ras Mohammed National Park – Often voted the world’s #1 dive site, featuring dramatic walls, massive fish schools, sharks, and pristine coral gardens.
Straits of Tiran – Four legendary reefs (Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, Gordon) offering encounters with grey reef sharks, hammerheads, manta rays, and spectacular coral formations.
SS Thistlegorm Wreck – Ranked among the top wreck dives globally, this WWII British cargo ship lies intact at 30 meters with visible motorcycles, trucks, and military equipment.
What You’ll See: Over 1,000 fish species, 220+ coral species, sea turtles, dolphins, rays, and various shark species.
Perfect For: Certified divers of all levels, with sites suitable from beginners to technical divers.
Pro Tip: Book multi-dive packages for better value and try to dive early morning for calmest conditions and best visibility.
2. Snorkel at Ras Mohammed National Park
If you’re not a certified diver, Ras Mohammed’s underwater paradise is equally spectacular for snorkelers. This 480 km² protected marine park sits where the two gulfs meet, creating one of the Red Sea’s richest ecosystems.
Snorkeling Highlights:
- Crystal-clear visibility up to 40 meters
- Shallow coral gardens perfect for all ages
- Sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water
- Colorful reef fish including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish
- Occasional dolphin encounters
The Experience: Full-day boat trips include multiple snorkel stops, lunch onboard, and visits to the Shark Observatory cliff offering panoramic Red Sea views.
Important: Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystem.
3. Explore the Straits of Tiran by Boat
The Straits of Tiran, separating Sinai from Saudi Arabia’s Tiran Island, host some of the Red Sea’s most spectacular reefs. While you can’t land on the island itself, the surrounding waters offer incredible snorkeling and diving.
What Makes It Special:
- Four distinct reef systems, each with unique characteristics
- Strong currents attracting large pelagic fish
- Frequent shark sightings (harmless reef sharks)
- Eagle rays and manta rays (seasonal)
- Pristine hard and soft coral formations
Experience Type: Full-day boat excursions with 2-3 snorkel or dive stops, perfect for both beginners and experienced water enthusiasts.
4. Climb Mount Sinai for Sunrise
This ranks among Egypt’s most spiritual and memorable experiences. Mount Sinai (Jebel Musa), where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments, offers one of the world’s most spectacular sunrise views.
The Journey:
- Depart around midnight from your hotel
- 2-3 hour ascent in darkness up the Camel Path
- Reach the 2,285-meter summit before dawn
- Watch the sun transform the desert mountains from darkness to golden light
- Descend to visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery
What to Expect: Cold summit temperatures (bring warm layers!), unforgettable views, and a profound sense of accomplishment and spiritual connection.
Difficulty: Moderate—requires reasonable fitness but no technical climbing skills. You can rent camels for portions of the ascent.
5. Visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery
At Mount Sinai’s foot stands one of the world’s oldest continuously operating monasteries, founded in the 6th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses incredible religious and historical treasures.
Highlights:
- Second-largest collection of Christian manuscripts after the Vatican
- Ancient library with 4th-century Bible pages
- Over 2,000 religious icons, many from the 5th-6th centuries
- The “Burning Bush” where Moses is said to have encountered God
- Stunning Byzantine architecture and fortress walls
Practical Info: Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9 AM-12 PM. Modest dress required. Most tours combine this with the Mount Sinai sunrise hike.
6. Hike the Colored Canyon
The Colored Canyon ranks as one of Sinai’s most photogenic natural wonders—a narrow sandstone gorge displaying spectacular layers of red, yellow, purple, orange, magenta, and gold.
The Experience:
- 800-meter canyon with passages narrow enough to touch both walls
- Walls reaching 40-80 meters high
- Stunning geological formations created over millions of years
- Cool temperatures inside (refreshing escape from desert heat)
- Photo opportunities at every turn
Perfect For: Adventure seekers, photographers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience Sinai’s dramatic desert landscape.
Duration: The canyon hike itself takes 1-2 hours, usually combined with other Sinai attractions in a full-day tour.
7. Experience Quad Biking Desert Safari
For adrenaline junkies, tearing across the Sinai Desert on a quad bike offers an exhilarating way to experience the landscape’s raw beauty.
Typical Safari Includes:
- 1-2 hours of quad biking across dunes and rocky terrain
- Visit to a traditional Bedouin village
- Bedouin tea experience
- Short camel ride
- Sunset viewing from the desert
- Traditional dinner (on some tours)
- Stargazing under clear desert skies
No Experience Needed: Full safety instruction provided, helmets and goggles included. Children can ride as passengers.
Best Time: Sunset safaris offer cooler temperatures and stunning golden-hour desert photography.
8. Discover Bedouin Culture and Hospitality
A visit to a Bedouin village offers authentic insight into traditional desert lifestyle that has existed for thousands of years in the Sinai.
Cultural Experiences:
- Traditional welcome with dates and Arabic coffee or sage tea
- Bread baking demonstration in underground ovens
- Traditional music and dance performances
- Henna painting
- Learning about Bedouin customs and desert survival techniques
Authentic Dinner: Feast on traditional dishes prepared using ancestral methods—fresh flatbread, grilled meats, rice with nuts and raisins, traditional salads.
Stargazing: After dinner, lie on traditional carpets while your Bedouin guide points out constellations and shares desert folklore.
9. Stargaze in the Desert with Telescopes
The Sinai Desert offers some of Earth’s clearest night skies, with minimal light pollution creating perfect conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Professional Stargazing Tours Feature:
- Professional-grade telescopes revealing celestial wonders
- Detailed views of Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, Mars’ surface
- Deep space objects: nebulae, star clusters, galaxies
- The Milky Way stretching dramatically across the desert
- Expert guides explaining astronomy and ancient navigation
The Experience: Travel deep into the desert away from artificial lights, observe through telescopes while guides share knowledge, then lie on comfortable mattresses sipping Bedouin tea while absorbing billions of stars overhead.
10. Snorkel at Sharks Bay
Despite the intimidating name, Sharks Bay is perfectly safe and offers some of Sharm’s most pristine shore-accessible snorkeling.
Why It’s Special:
- Direct shore access to healthy coral reefs
- Shallow waters perfect for beginners and children
- Diverse marine life just meters from the beach
- Calmer conditions than many other locations
- Multiple beach clubs with facilities
What You’ll Encounter: Colorful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, occasional sea turtles and rays, octopus hiding in crevices.
Pro Tip: Visit early morning (7-9 AM) for clearest water and most active marine life.
11. Explore Ras Um Sid Reef
For snorkelers and divers prioritizing underwater beauty over beach amenities, Ras Um Sid offers exceptional shore-accessible reef systems.
Marine Life Highlights:
- Frequent sea turtle sightings
- Eagle rays and stingrays
- Massive schools of sergeant majors and butterflyfish
- Moray eels in reef crevices
- Healthy coral walls with dramatic drop-offs
Best For: Serious snorkelers and divers, photographers, those seeking quality underwater experiences over beach club atmospheres.
12. Enjoy Water Sports Adventures
Sharm El Sheikh offers thrilling topside water activities beyond diving and snorkeling.
Popular Water Sports:
Parasailing: Soar 30-50 meters above the Red Sea with stunning aerial views of coastline and visible coral reefs below.
Banana Boat: Hilarious group activity riding an inflatable banana towed by speedboat—expect wipeouts!
Tube Riding: Similar to banana boat but on a couch-shaped inflatable.
Jet Skiing: Explore the coastline at your own pace.
Best Locations: Naama Bay and Sharks Bay host most water sports centers with combo packages offering multiple activities at discounted rates.
13. Take a Day Trip to Dahab
Just 90 minutes north lies Dahab—a laid-back bohemian paradise offering stark contrast to Sharm’s resort atmosphere.
Dahab Highlights:
The Blue Hole: World-famous dive site and spectacular snorkeling spot around a submarine sinkhole.
Blue Lagoon: Protected bay perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing beginners.
Waterfront Promenade: Colorful restaurants with cushioned floor seating, stunning sunset views, and relaxed vibes.
Activities: World-class kite surfing, diving, camel beach rides, yoga retreats, café hopping.
Where to Eat: Ali Baba Restaurant (seafood), Tim’s Munch (brunch), Ralph’s German Bakery (breakfast).
Perfect For: Those seeking a more authentic, less touristy atmosphere and world-class wind sports.
14. Visit Al-Sahaba Mosque
Al-Sahaba Mosque stands as Sharm’s most impressive religious monument, showcasing stunning Ottoman-style architecture in the Old Market district.
Architectural Highlights:
- Two towering 70-meter minarets
- Central dome visible across Sharm El Maya
- Intricate Islamic geometric patterns and calligraphy
- Beautiful interior with ornate chandeliers
- Spectacular night illumination
Visiting Info: Free entry outside prayer times. Modest clothing required (shoulders and knees covered), women must cover hair. Scarves available at entrance.
Best Time: Late afternoon or evening for stunning photographs, especially after sunset when the lighting display begins.
Read More : All Inclusive Egypt Vacation Packages 2025
15. Experience Farsha Café’s Unique Atmosphere
Farsha Café is arguably Sharm’s most Instagram-worthy venue—an eclectic cliffside maze you simply must experience.
What Makes Farsha Magical:
- Multi-level terraces cascading down cliffs overlooking the Red Sea
- Chaotic yet harmonious décor mixing antiques, colorful lanterns, neon signs, vintage furniture
- Traditional Bedouin seating areas with floor cushions
- Stunning sunset views
- Specialty teas, Arabic coffee, hookah, full menu
Pro Tip: Arrive 45 minutes before sunset to secure prime viewing spots—it gets crowded! Every corner offers unique photo opportunities.
Location: Hadaba area, 10-minute taxi from Naama Bay.
16. Shop at Old Market (Sharm Souk)
For authentic Egyptian shopping away from resort boutiques, the Old Market in Sharm El Maya offers traditional bazaar atmosphere.
What to Buy:
- Papyrus paintings with hieroglyphics
- Handcrafted silver jewelry and cartouches
- Bedouin textiles and embroidery
- Egyptian spices (dukkah, ras el hanout)
- Traditional clothing, leather goods
- Essential oils and perfumes
Bargaining Expected: Start at 40-50% of asking price, negotiate to around 60-70% of original. Walk away if the price isn’t right—they’ll often call you back!
Best Times: Early evening (6-8 PM) for pleasant temperatures, or night time (8-11 PM) for atmospheric lights and crowds.
Dining: Don’t miss El Masrien Restaurant for authentic Egyptian cuisine at incredible prices—feast for just $10-15 per person!
17. Relax at Naama Bay Beach
Naama Bay’s crescent-shaped beach serves as Sharm’s social center—perfect for those wanting everything within walking distance.
Beach Features:
- Soft golden sand ideal for sunbathing
- Gradual, shallow entry perfect for families
- Lively atmosphere with beach bars and music
- Water sports available
- Evening beach walks along illuminated promenade
What to Do: Swimming, beach volleyball, water sports, beachside dining, people-watching, and easy access to Sharm’s best nightlife.
Perfect For: First-time visitors, families, social atmosphere seekers, those wanting convenience.
18. Sunset Drinks at Camel Rooftop Bar
After days of adventure, unwind at Camel Rooftop Bar in Naama Bay with 360-degree views of the Red Sea and Sinai Mountains.
The Experience:
- Comfortable cushioned seating
- Creative cocktails and classic drinks
- Light bites and mezze
- Relaxed atmosphere perfect for sundowners
- Live music on select nights
Best Time: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to watch the sky transform over the Red Sea—magical!
19. Visit SOHO Square Entertainment Complex
SOHO Square brings European-style plaza entertainment to Sharm with shops, restaurants, unique attractions, and the famous Musical Fountain Show.
Highlights:
- Musical Fountains: Free nightly choreographed water displays synchronized to music and lights
- Ice Skating Rink: Unique experience of ice skating in the Egyptian desert!
- Diverse Dining: International restaurants including Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern
- Shopping: Boutiques and souvenir shops
- Nightlife: Pacha Nightclub and entertainment venues
Perfect For: Families with children, evening entertainment, variety seekers.
20. Boat Trip to White Island
White Island (Ras Mohammed area) offers pristine beaches and exceptional snorkeling in a stunning natural setting.
The Experience:
- Boat trip to uninhabited island
- White sandy beaches and turquoise waters
- Excellent snorkeling around the island
- Picnic lunch on board or beach
- Swimming and sunbathing in paradise
What You’ll See: Vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island, diverse fish species, possible turtle and ray encounters, crystal-clear waters.
Perfect For: Beach lovers, snorkelers, photographers, those seeking Robinson Crusoe-style paradise.
Practical Tips for Visiting Sharm El Sheikh
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (October-April): Perfect weather (20-28°C), ideal for all activities but higher prices and more crowds. Shoulder Season (May & September): Lower prices, fewer tourists, still good weather. Summer (June-August): Very hot (35-45°C) but cheapest prices and empty beaches.
What to Pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen damages coral)
- Underwater camera
- Warm layers for Mount Sinai and desert nights
- Modest clothing for mosque visits
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Snorkel gear (optional but saves rental fees)
Money-Saving Tips
- Book multi-dive packages for 30-40% savings per dive
- Eat at local Egyptian restaurants ($3-7 meals) not tourist spots
- Use micro-buses ($0.50-1) instead of taxis for short trips
- Book tours directly with operators like Amon Ra Tours (avoid hotel desk commissions)
- Visit during shoulder season for 20-30% lower prices
- Bargain hard at Old Market
Safety & Health
- Only drink bottled water
- Use high SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily)
- Never touch coral while snorkeling/diving
- Book only with licensed, reputable tour operators
- Respect marine life and maintain safe distances
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress modestly outside beach areas
- Remove shoes when entering homes or certain restaurants
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Bargaining expected at markets but not restaurants
- Tipping (baksheesh) is customary and expected
Why Choose Amon Ra Tours
Amon Ra Tours stands out as your trusted partner for exploring Sharm El Sheikh:
✅ Local Expertise – Deep knowledge of best dive sites, hidden gems, and optimal timing for each activity
✅ Safety First – Certified guides, modern equipment, comprehensive insurance, 24/7 support
✅ Best Value – Direct bookings without third-party commissions, competitive pricing, multi-tour discounts
✅ Customization – Flexible itineraries tailored to your interests and pace
✅ Comprehensive Service – Airport transfers, hotel pickup, all permits and fees handled
✅ Multilingual Guides – English, Arabic, German, Italian, Russian speakers available
✅ Sustainability – Reef-safe practices, support for local Bedouin communities, environmental education
Popular Tours:
- Ras Mohammed & White Island Snorkeling Adventure
- Mount Sinai Sunrise & Saint Catherine’s Monastery
- Desert Safari with Bedouin Dinner & Stargazing
- Colored Canyon & Dahab Day Trip
- Multi-Day Diving Packages
- Custom Private Tours
Conclusion: Your Sharm El Sheikh Adventure Awaits
Sharm El Sheikh delivers an unbeatable combination of underwater wonders, desert adventures, spiritual experiences, vibrant culture, and pure relaxation—all in one accessible Red Sea paradise.
Whether you’re drawn by world-famous diving sites, captivated by the idea of watching sunrise from a biblical mountain, excited about quad biking across sand dunes, or simply seeking sun-drenched beaches and crystal-clear waters—Sharm El Sheikh offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
The destination’s magic lies in its contrasts: explore vibrant coral reefs in the morning, climb ancient mountains in the afternoon, and enjoy cocktails at sunset overlooking the Red Sea. Few places pack such diversity into one compact area.
Ready to discover why millions choose Sharm El Sheikh?
Contact Amon Ra Tours today to start planning your perfect Red Sea adventure. From your first inquiry to your final sunset, we’ll ensure your Sharm El Sheikh experience exceeds every expectation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the top 3 things to do in Sharm El Sheikh?
The three absolute must-do activities are: (1) Diving or snorkeling at Ras Mohammed National Park—world-class marine life and coral reefs; (2) Mount Sinai sunrise hike and Saint Catherine’s Monastery visit—spiritual and unforgettable; (3) Desert safari with Bedouin experience—authentic culture and adventure.
Q2: Is Sharm El Sheikh good for non-divers?
Absolutely! While diving is a highlight, Sharm offers incredible snorkeling (accessible to anyone who can swim), desert adventures, cultural sites, beaches, water sports, shopping, dining, and nightlife. You can have an amazing trip without diving.
Q3: How many days do I need in Sharm El Sheikh?
Minimum 3 days to see highlights, but 5-7 days is ideal for experiencing diving, desert adventures, and cultural sites without rushing. One week allows for a day trip to Cairo or Luxor as well.
Q4: Is it safe to travel to Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, Sharm El Sheikh is very safe for tourists with strong security presence and checkpoints throughout Sinai. Resort areas are heavily protected. Millions visit annually without incident. Standard travel precautions apply.
Q5: What can you do in Sharm El Sheikh besides diving?
Plenty! Snorkeling, quad biking, camel rides, Mount Sinai hiking, Bedouin village visits, stargazing, parasailing, jet skiing, shopping at Old Market, visiting mosques, day trips to Dahab, beach relaxation, water parks, and vibrant nightlife.
Q6: When is the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?
October through April offers perfect weather (20-28°C) ideal for all activities. November and February are particularly excellent for fewer crowds. May and September offer good value with decent weather. Avoid June-August unless you handle extreme heat well (35-45°C).
Q7: Can you do a day trip to Cairo from Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, day trips to Cairo and the Pyramids are possible by bus (6 hours each way) or plane (1 hour). However, it’s a very long day. If possible, dedicate 2-3 days to Cairo for a better experience.
Q8: Is Mount Sinai difficult to climb?
The hike is moderate difficulty suitable for most fitness levels. The main Camel Path has gradual inclines over 2-3 hours. You can rent camels for portions. Main challenges are the early midnight start and cold summit temperatures. Children 8+ typically manage fine.
Q9: How much does diving cost in Sharm El Sheikh?
Daily boat dives cost around $40-60 per dive. Multi-dive packages offer better value: 5 dives $170-220, 10 dives $320-400. PADI Open Water certification costs $350-450. Shore dives are slightly cheaper.
Q10: What should I wear in Sharm El Sheikh?
Swimwear and beach clothes are fine at beaches and pools. Away from beach areas, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). For mosque visits, women need headscarves (available at entrance). For desert activities, bring warm layers—nights can be near freezing even when days are hot.
Q11: Do I need a visa for Sharm El Sheikh?
Most nationalities can get visa on arrival at Sharm airport for $25 USD. There’s also a free “Sinai-only” stamp valid 15 days if staying exclusively in Sinai. You can apply for e-visa online before travel.
Q12: Is the water safe for snorkeling?
Yes! The Red Sea has calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Sharks Bay, Ras Mohammed, and other popular spots are safe. Reef sharks occasionally seen are harmless. Always snorkel with a buddy and follow guide instructions.
Q13: Can I drink alcohol in Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, alcohol is available in tourist areas—hotels, resorts, bars, and restaurants in Naama Bay and Sharks Bay serve beer, wine, and spirits. However, be respectful as Egypt is a Muslim country: don’t drink in streets, avoid public drunkenness.
Q14: What’s the best area to stay in Sharm El Sheikh?
Naama Bay for first-timers wanting central location, nightlife, and convenience. Sharks Bay/Nabq Bay for luxury resorts, excellent snorkeling, and quieter atmosphere. Sharm El Maya for budget travelers and authentic local experience.
Q15: Are there jellyfish in Sharm El Sheikh?
Jellyfish are rare in Sharm El Sheikh. Occasionally small harmless ones appear but serious stings are extremely uncommon. The bigger concern is sea urchins in shallow rocky areas—wear water shoes if concerned. Fire coral (not actually coral) can cause stings if touched, so never touch anything underwater.