Sharm el-Sheikh Travel Guide

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Fish in the Red Sea © Igo Verlinde

Overview: A world-acclaimed dive centre and the most developed of the Red Sea resorts, Sharm el-Sheikh has many activities, luxury accommodation and restaurants available. Most hotels and diving centres are situated four miles (7km) from the city at Naama Bay and it has become a busy holiday resort with plenty of shopping opportunities, late night entertainment and an attractive resort atmosphere. Numerous dive sites are within reach of Sharm el-Sheikh, including the huge drop-offs at Ras Mohammed in the extreme southern part of the peninsula, the Straits of Tiran, wrecks and 28 sites located along the coast that are reached by boat. Naama Bay has a gently sloping sandy bottom, is ideal for dive classes, and provides diving and snorkelling opportunities for all levels without having to use a boat or car to get there. Besides excellent diving and snorkelling, which are the main activities, there are plenty of watersports available if one feels like doing more than just soaking up the sun. Add a vibrant nightlife with casinos, discos and nightclubs and one cannot complain of boredom.
Shopping: Avid shoppers will find a good variety of goods in the old market and Sharm El-Sheikh mall where shops sell both foreign and local products, including jewellery, leather goods, clothing, pottery and books. Naama Bay offers a more upmarket shopping experience at the Naama Centre where shopkeepers are less inclined to bargain, but everything from souvenirs to scarves can be had.
Restaurants: Between the two tourist districts of Old Sharm and Naama Bay there is a huge variety of dining options, from hotel restaurants, and international fast food chains like KFC, to local eateries and fresh fish. Anything from Mexican to Japanese is represented in town.
Nightlife: Casinos, discos, pubs and bars cater to those ready to party the night away. Entertainment ranges from dance clubs to informal hangouts, with local favourites like the Pirates Bar, Zabadi and The Tavern Pub.
Activities: Diving and snorkelling are the main activities, but there are a range of other activities available including horse and camel riding, golf, desert safaris and health treatments, and a variety of watersports. The desert holds numerous attractions and trips are offered to Mt Sinai and St Catherine's Monastery, among others.