×

Egypt🇪🇬 | beachesSharm El Sheikhcoral reefs, international resorts, bustling promenade | things to do and best time to go

Explore NuweibaExplore Taba Heights

Backpacking in Sharm El Sheikh
🏆 Top pickbeach ranked #1
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 25, 2026

Here’s the curveball nobody tells you: Sharm El Sheikh’s main beach isn’t actually the best place to swim. Most of the shoreline is either cordoned off by resorts or so rocky you’ll wish you’d packed steel-toed sandals. Sharm El Sheikh sits at the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, where the Red Sea meets a parade of all-inclusive hotels and the occasional camel. For backpackers, the beach scene here is a mixed blessing. The water is absurdly clear, and the snorkeling is world-class—if you can find a public patch of sand that isn’t monopolized by sun loungers or selfie sticks. Cleanliness is hit-or-miss, depending on how close you are to the resort sprawl. The vibe? Less “laid-back backpacker” and more “package holiday stampede,” especially compared to Dahab’s mellow shores up the coast. Food and beds can be cheap if you dodge the big-name hotels, but you’ll work for it. If you want easy access and underwater drama, Sharm delivers. If you crave a chill, sandy hangout, keep moving.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Egypt Travel Guide.


Get your Egypt guide
116 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (438 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #1 beach in EgyptWhat makes it a must-see beach

Sharm El Sheikh beach is a backpacker’s pit stop that’s hard to resist. First off, the laid-back atmosphere is like a warm hug after a long trek. You can kick off your shoes, sink your toes into the sand, and forget about the world for a while.

Then there’s the affordability factor. You can grab a cold drink without feeling like you just financed a small country. Plus, the social scene is buzzing. Travelers from all over gather here, swapping stories and sharing laughs like old friends. It’s a melting pot of experiences, and you never know who you’ll meet over a game of beach volleyball or a sunset cocktail.

Water access is another big draw. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quick dip or some snorkeling. But it’s not just about swimming; this beach serves as a connector along the … read more 👉
Sharm El Sheikh beach is a backpacker’s pit stop that’s hard to resist. First off, the laid-back atmosphere is like a warm hug after a long trek. You can kick off your shoes, sink your toes into the sand, and forget about the world for a while.

Then there’s the affordability factor. You can grab a cold drink without feeling like you just financed a small country. Plus, the social scene is buzzing. Travelers from all over gather here, swapping stories and sharing laughs like old friends. It’s a melting pot of experiences, and you never know who you’ll meet over a game of beach volleyball or a sunset cocktail.

Water access is another big draw. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quick dip or some snorkeling. But it’s not just about swimming; this beach serves as a connector along the coastal route. It’s a natural pause, a place to recharge before diving into the next adventure.

So, while some might roll their eyes at the idea of a beach stop, Sharm El Sheikh offers a blend of relaxation and connection that’s hard to beat. Embrace the absurdity; you’ve earned it!
Want to include Sharm El Sheikh in your Egypt route?
Create a personalized Egypt itinerary that includes Sharm El Sheikh and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while visiting Sharm El Sheikh

  • Coral gardens and shore snorkeling — Reefs start just meters from the sand here, so you don’t need a boat to swim among vivid soft corals, clownfish and anemones. The water clarity is insane, making even a cheap mask feel like a front-row seat to the Red Sea’s underwater highway.
  • Ras Mohammed marine reserve day trip — A short hop from the beach, this protected park has dramatic drop-offs, turquoise lagoons and huge fish density. It’s where shallow coral gardens meet deep walls, so you can go from lazy snorkeling to spotting pelagic life in one afternoon.
  • Wreck diving and historic shipwrecks — The area is famous for WWII-era wrecks and machine-strewn sites that are now artificial reefs packed with life. For advanced divers it’s a rare mix of history and marine biodiversity you won’t get
… read more 👉
  • Coral gardens and shore snorkeling — Reefs start just meters from the sand here, so you don’t need a boat to swim among vivid soft corals, clownfish and anemones. The water clarity is insane, making even a cheap mask feel like a front-row seat to the Red Sea’s underwater highway.
  • Ras Mohammed marine reserve day trip — A short hop from the beach, this protected park has dramatic drop-offs, turquoise lagoons and huge fish density. It’s where shallow coral gardens meet deep walls, so you can go from lazy snorkeling to spotting pelagic life in one afternoon.
  • Wreck diving and historic shipwrecks — The area is famous for WWII-era wrecks and machine-strewn sites that are now artificial reefs packed with life. For advanced divers it’s a rare mix of history and marine biodiversity you won’t get just anywhere.
  • Sunset dhow cruise and seaside BBQs — Traditional wooden dhows glide along the coast as the light hits the reefs golden. Many evening cruises include a simple seafood or Bedouin-style barbecue and a chance to swim at dusk — very chill and impossibly photogenic.
  • Night dives, bioluminescence and the lit-up promenade — The reefs change character after dark: nocturnal critters, shrimp, lobsters and surprising phosphorescence make night dives special. Back on land, the bay’s illuminated promenade comes alive with street food, live performers and a casual after-dark vibe that’s uniquely Sharm.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Sharm El Sheikh

Advanced Open Water Diver Course

Advanced Open Water Diver Course

5.0(46) 72h
From €300
per personViator
Private Dinner Cruise On Vip Yacht Sharm El Sheikh

Private Dinner Cruise On Vip Yacht Sharm El Sheikh

5.0(43) 4h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €402
per personViator
Sharm Sunset ATV Safari

Sharm Sunset ATV Safari

5.0(36) 3h
✓ Free cancellation
From €23
per personViator
Sharm El-Sheikh Desert Safari Quad bike & Camel Ride

Sharm El-Sheikh Desert Safari Quad bike & Camel Ride

5.0(31) 3h
✓ Free cancellation
From €27
per personViator
Private Cairo Airport Transfer (Pickup or Drop-off Service)

Private Cairo Airport Transfer (Pickup or Drop-off Service)

5.0(29) 1m
✓ Free cancellation
From €27
per personViator
Private Romantic Nile Felucca Cairo Sunset Dining

Private Romantic Nile Felucca Cairo Sunset Dining

5.0(25) 4h
✓ Free cancellation
From €49
per personViator
Sharm El Sheikh Safari ATV Bedouin Dinner and Show

Sharm El Sheikh Safari ATV Bedouin Dinner and Show

5.0(25) 5h
✓ Free cancellation
From €40
per personViator
Ultimate Fayoum Desert VIP Adventure Bedouin Feast

Ultimate Fayoum Desert VIP Adventure Bedouin Feast

5.0(24) 5h 59m
✓ Free cancellation
From €36
per personViator
Old Market and Farsha Café Experience

Old Market and Farsha Café Experience

5.0(24) 3h
✓ Free cancellation
From €9.99
per personViator
3 days diving 6 dives

3 days diving 6 dives

5.0(22)
✓ Free cancellation
From €160
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 116 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs


  • Topic: Weather – The best window is from October to April when the desert heat mellows out. Expect highs around 25-28°C (77-82°F), which is perfect for beach lounging without spontaneously combusting.

  • Topic: Temperature – Summer months (May to September) can roast you alive with highs soaring above 35°C (95°F). Nights barely cool down, so if you’re not a fan of feeling like a baked potato, steer clear.

  • Topic: Daylight Hours – Winter days are shorter, roughly 10 hours of daylight, which means less beach time but more manageable heat. Summer stretches daylight to about 13 hours, but you’ll be sweating through most of it.

  • Topic: Crowds – Peak tourist season aligns with the cooler months, so expect more people and higher prices from December through February. Shoulder seasons (October-November,
… read more 👉

  • Topic: Weather – The best window is from October to April when the desert heat mellows out. Expect highs around 25-28°C (77-82°F), which is perfect for beach lounging without spontaneously combusting.

  • Topic: Temperature – Summer months (May to September) can roast you alive with highs soaring above 35°C (95°F). Nights barely cool down, so if you’re not a fan of feeling like a baked potato, steer clear.

  • Topic: Daylight Hours – Winter days are shorter, roughly 10 hours of daylight, which means less beach time but more manageable heat. Summer stretches daylight to about 13 hours, but you’ll be sweating through most of it.

  • Topic: Crowds – Peak tourist season aligns with the cooler months, so expect more people and higher prices from December through February. Shoulder seasons (October-November, March-April) offer a sweet spot with fewer tourists and decent weather.

  • Topic: Seasonal Activities – Diving and snorkeling thrive year-round, but visibility peaks in spring and autumn. Winter brings calmer seas, making underwater exploration a bit easier on the nerves and camera gear.

  • Topic: Price Fluctuations – High season means inflated prices on accommodation and tours. Booking in shoulder seasons can save you a chunk of cash without sacrificing the experience.


Pro-tip: Aim for late October or early April to dodge the scorch and the crowds—your skin and wallet will thank you.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: highly recommended for travelingFEBFebruary: highly recommended for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: below average for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: below average for travelingSEPSeptember: fair for travelingOCTOctober: highly recommended for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: highly recommended for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutEgypt Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Egypt
The digital guide (438 pages) contains:
✅ 116 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 7, 14 & 21-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

When it comes to Sharm El Sheikh, the beach scene is a magnet for backpackers, but not all areas are created equal.

First up, Naama Bay. This is the beating heart of the action. Picture bustling markets, lively bars, and a beach that’s practically begging you to plop down with a cold drink. It’s safe, social, and you’ll find plenty of fellow travelers to swap stories with. Just be prepared for the occasional haggler trying to sell you a “genuine” Egyptian papyrus scroll.

Then there’s Shark’s Bay. It’s a bit quieter, which is perfect if you’re looking to escape the party scene without completely … read more 👉
When it comes to Sharm El Sheikh, the beach scene is a magnet for backpackers, but not all areas are created equal.

First up, Naama Bay. This is the beating heart of the action. Picture bustling markets, lively bars, and a beach that’s practically begging you to plop down with a cold drink. It’s safe, social, and you’ll find plenty of fellow travelers to swap stories with. Just be prepared for the occasional haggler trying to sell you a “genuine” Egyptian papyrus scroll.

Then there’s Shark’s Bay. It’s a bit quieter, which is perfect if you’re looking to escape the party scene without completely cutting ties. The snorkeling here is top-notch, and you can often find budget-friendly accommodations that don’t skimp on character. Plus, the sunsets? They’ll make you forget all about your last hostel’s questionable plumbing.

Finally, consider Old Sharm. This area has a more local vibe, with charming streets and authentic eateries. It’s a bit off the main tourist path, but that’s where the magic happens. You’ll get a taste of real Egyptian life while still being close enough to the beach to hear the waves calling your name.

Skip the overrated spots and dive into these areas for a true Sharm experience.
Best hostels in Egypt


Best quality hotels in Egypt

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh beach is generally a safe haven for sun-seekers and snorkelers alike. The swimming conditions are usually calm, with gentle waves that invite you in rather than toss you around like a salad. Currents can vary, so keep an eye on the flags; green means go, red means reconsider that swim.

As for marine life, you might spot a curious ray gliding by or a school of fish darting around the coral. Jellyfish can pop up, especially in warmer months, so check with locals about their presence. Sharks? Rarely a concern here, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.

The sun can be relentless, especially midday. Slather on that sunscreen and take breaks in the shade. Theft isn’t rampant, but don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach. Locals often swim in the early … read more 👉
Sharm El Sheikh beach is generally a safe haven for sun-seekers and snorkelers alike. The swimming conditions are usually calm, with gentle waves that invite you in rather than toss you around like a salad. Currents can vary, so keep an eye on the flags; green means go, red means reconsider that swim.

As for marine life, you might spot a curious ray gliding by or a school of fish darting around the coral. Jellyfish can pop up, especially in warmer months, so check with locals about their presence. Sharks? Rarely a concern here, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.

The sun can be relentless, especially midday. Slather on that sunscreen and take breaks in the shade. Theft isn’t rampant, but don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach. Locals often swim in the early morning or late afternoon, so follow their lead for a more relaxed experience. Enjoy the grind of travel; it’s all part of the adventure!
Check Country Safety

Other Egyptian beaches near Sharm El Sheikh

Explore more nearby:

  • Dahab—rocky coves, windsurfing spots, relaxed backpacker scene| 75 km away
  • El Gouna—lagoon network, upscale marinas, manicured beaches| 81 km away
  • Hurghada—long sandy shoreline, nightlife districts, diving centers| 87 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Egypt including Sharm El Sheikh and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all beaches

Or checkout all Egypt has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Egypt
Country photo of Egypt
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackFinal thoughts on visiting Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh beach? Essential, but with a twist. Expect a lively vibe, where sunbathers and divers mingle like old friends. The best surprise? The underwater world—snorkeling here is like crashing a private party with vibrant fish and coral. Just a heads-up: the beach can get crowded, especially during peak season. If you can, rise early for a quieter experience. Embrace the chaos; it’s part of the charm. You’ll leave with stories, not just sunburn.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on in-depth research, insights shared by experienced travelers, and feedback from the local travel community in Egypt. While every effort is made to keep the information accurate and current, conditions can change — so if you spot anything incorrect or outdated, please get in touch.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Egypt guide •
Instant download • 116 highlights • Full Offline guide