Sharm El Sheikh Red Sea coast Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Sharm El Sheikh

Egypt South Sinai Governorate Red Sea Coral Sand

Sharm El Sheikh sits at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Red Sea. It's Egypt's premier diving destination, with access to Ras Mohammed National Park—one of the world's top dive sites. The beaches range from resort strips to pristine bays, all fronted by some of the most biodiverse coral reefs accessible from shore. The desert mountains rising behind the coast create a dramatic backdrop.

Key Information

Sand Type
Coral sand and rocky entries; some resort beaches imported
Water
Warm Red Sea (22–28°C); exceptionally clear; high salinity
Best Season
Year-round diving; March–May and Sept–Nov best weather
Access Difficulty
Easy — international airport (SSH) with direct flights
Uniqueness
World-class diving, Ras Mohammed, intact coral ecosystems
Preservation
Ras Mohammed protected; reef damage concerns in resort areas
Safety
Safe resort area; don't touch coral; be aware of fire coral and lionfish
Coordinates
27.86°N, 34.31°E

Access

Fly directly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) with connections from Europe, Middle East, and Cairo. The resort area stretches along Na'ama Bay and Sharks Bay. Ras Mohammed National Park is 20 km south, accessible by boat or road.

Rankings

CategoryRating
BeautyHigh
UniquenessExceptional
AccessEasy
PreservationModerate

Diving

Ras Mohammed is consistently ranked among the world's top dive sites. The Shark and Yolanda Reefs offer wall diving with pelagic encounters. The SS Thistlegorm wreck (accessible by liveaboard) is a legendary WWII shipwreck. Over 200 coral species and 1,000 fish species have been recorded in the area. Shore diving is possible at many locations along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh is located in Egypt, South Sinai Governorate. It sits on Red Sea and features coral sand beaches.

What is the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?

The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh is Year-round diving; March–May and Sept–Nov best weather. Check local weather conditions before planning your trip.

Is Sharm El Sheikh safe for swimming?

Safe resort area; don't touch coral; be aware of fire coral and lionfish

Image Credits