Sharm El Sheikh remains one of the most reliable beach destinations in the Middle East a place where warm water clear skies and a relaxed coastal lifestyle come together in one simple package. For 2025 the city is shaping up to be even more appealing. Resorts have upgraded facilities diving centers have expanded their programs and new excursions give travelers more ways to explore both the Red Sea and the Sinai desert.

If you are planning a trip this guide walks you through the best things to do in Sharm this year from classic snorkeling and desert safaris to quiet bays that feel far from the crowds. The focus here is simple. What is worth your time in 2025 and how do you plan a trip that balances the sea the desert and the culture without overspending

Why Sharm El Sheikh Still Works in 2025

Sharm has held its spot as Egypt’s most consistent coastal destination because it offers variety. Some travellers come for world class diving others come for the warm weather during winter and many families come for all inclusive resorts that keep things easy. In 2025 Sharm continues to improve on the basics

Warm temperatures throughout the year
A safe controlled tourism zone
Excellent infrastructure and plenty of direct flights
A strong mix of luxury mid range and budget hotels
Access to some of the most colorful reefs in the entire Red Sea

Whether you want a relaxed holiday at a resort or an active trip filled with boat rides and desert adventures you will find it here.

Enjoy the Best Beaches and Bays

The coastline of Sharm El Sheikh is made up of several distinct bays. Each one offers a different energy and understanding the differences helps you plan your days around the sea in the best way.

Naama Bay

Naama Bay is the original heart of Sharm. It has a long curving beach with classic beach clubs and a promenade that comes alive in the evenings. If you enjoy walking between cafés shops and open air restaurants this area is easy and social. Water is calm and ideal for swimming and basic snorkelling.

Sharks Bay

Sharks Bay is a favourite for travellers who want quieter fenced resorts better house reefs and a calmer atmosphere. Many hotels here have jetties that take you straight over the coral walls making it one of the best areas for reef access without needing a boat trip.

Nabq Bay

Nabq Bay sits further north and offers long sandy beaches with wide spaces and large family resorts. If you prefer broad shallow swimming areas or if you are travelling with kids this area works well. It also provides quick access to nature reserves.

Discover the Best Snorkeling Spots

Snorkeling is one of the biggest reasons people return to Sharm year after year. The water stays warm the visibility is excellent and the reefs are close to the surface.

Ras Mohammed National Park

Ras Mohammed is considered the top snorkeling site in Sharm. Huge coral walls drop into deep blue water colourful fish move in every direction and the site feels both wild and accessible. Most travelers book a full day boat trip but speedboat options are available if you prefer a shorter outing.

Tiran Island

Tiran Island sits between the Sinai Peninsula and Saudi Arabia. The reefs around it are known for shallow coral gardens and calm protected lagoons. Many visitors spot dolphins during the boat ride. It is a great choice for travellers who want a mix of snorkeling swimming and relaxing on deck.

House Reefs of Sharm

Some resorts have excellent house reefs that allow you to snorkel directly from the hotel. Sites like Far Garden Temple Reef and Tower Reef give you access to colourful coral without the need to book an excursion. For beginners this is an easy and safe place to start.

Dive the Red Sea’s Most Famous Sites

Sharm El Sheikh is one of the world’s strongest diving hubs with warm water all year and dozens of respected dive schools. In 2025 more divers are planning trips to Sharm to try the major sites.

SS Thistlegorm

The Thistlegorm is a legendary WWII shipwreck filled with preserved trucks motorbikes railway parts and wartime equipment. It sits at about 30 metres which makes it accessible to advanced divers. It is considered one of the top wreck dives in the world and for many travellers it is the highlight of the trip.

Jackson and Gordon Reefs

These reefs in the Straits of Tiran offer drift dives soft corals and the chance to see big pelagic fish. Currents can be strong so they are best for divers with some experience.

Night Diving

Night dives are available at several local sites and give you a completely different look at the reef. After dark many species that hide during the day become active and the atmosphere is calm and quiet.

Experience the Sinai Desert

The desert around Sharm El Sheikh is just as impressive as the water. Wide valleys mountains and deep canyons create a landscape that feels ancient and untouched.

Quad Biking

One of the most popular activities in Sharm is a quad bike ride through the desert around sunset. The light is golden the temperatures are cooler and the dry open spaces give you the feeling of real adventure. Most trips include a short stop with Bedouin tea.

Camel Safari

A slower calmer way to experience the desert. Camel rides take you along traditional Bedouin paths and give you time to appreciate the quiet and the scenery.

Mount Sinai Sunrise

A classic experience for travellers with good fitness. You begin late at night climb for several hours and reach the top of Mount Sinai just before sunrise. The views across the mountains are wide and peaceful. The tour usually includes a visit to St Catherine’s Monastery.

Explore Sharm’s Cultural Side

While Sharm is known mainly for beaches and resorts it has its own cultural corners and neighbourhoods that are worth exploring.

Old Market

The Old Market in Sharm el Maya mixes local restaurants with souvenir shops and small cafés. It is one of the best areas to try traditional meals and walk around in the evening. Prices are lower than in resort areas.

Al Sahaba Mosque

This large mosque in the heart of the Old Market has become a local landmark. Its architecture mixes traditional and modern design. Visitors can walk the exterior and photograph the details respectfully.

Bedouin Dinner

Many evening tours include a Bedouin dinner in the desert. You taste simple grilled food enjoy quiet views of the sky and listen to traditional stories. It is an easy way to experience local culture without leaving Sharm for too long.

Try the Most Popular Day Trips

Sharm is a good base for several nearby destinations that can be reached in a single day.

Dahab

Dahab is a relaxed coastal town with a calmer atmosphere. The Blue Hole Laguna and Eel Garden are great snorkelling spots and the town has a good number of cafés facing the water. It is a nice escape if you want a break from resort areas.

Coloured Canyon

A natural canyon with twisting sandstone walls and bright colours. The route is fun for photography and light hiking.

Cairo or Luxor

Many travellers take a day trip flight to Cairo to see the Egyptian Museum the Grand Egyptian Museum or the Pyramids. Luxor offers the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. Although the day is long it allows you to combine beach time with cultural sightseeing.

Family Friendly Activities

Sharm is one of the easiest destinations for families thanks to its shallow beaches waterparks and controlled environment.

Waterparks like Aqua Blue and Cleo Park
Semi submarine trips that allow non swimmers to see reefs
Aquariums and small dolphin shows designed for younger children

Nightlife and Dining

Sharm has a simple but enjoyable nightlife scene. You can find live music lounges outdoor cafés and hotel entertainment.

Soho Square is the most modern area with restaurants ice lounge bowling and dancing fountains
Naama Bay has cafés and informal bars for relaxed evenings
Seafood restaurants are common especially along the Old Market coastline

Where to Stay in 2025

Accommodation options are wide. Luxury resorts in Sharks Bay and Nabq are ideal for comfort mid range hotels in Naama Bay offer convenience and budget options around the Old Market give great value.

Useful Travel Tips for 2025

Visa rules are simple for most nationalities
Phone data is cheap with local SIM cards
Uber and Careem do not operate so agree on taxi rates in advance
Protect the coral by avoiding touching reefs and using reef safe sunscreen
Carry small cash for tips and markets

A Simple Five Day Itinerary

Day 1 Snorkelling at the house reef and an evening in Soho Square
Day 2 Full day Ras Mohammed boat trip
Day 3 Desert quad biking and Bedouin dinner
Day 4 Tiran Island snorkel or diving
Day 5 Old Market walk and seafood lunch

Sharm El Sheikh in 2025 offers a complete warm weather escape. You get colourful coral calm beaches desert landscapes friendly resorts and easy day trips all in one place. Whether you want adventure or rest you will find a balance here and the city continues to offer good value through