Beaches in Sharm El Sheikh

By the SharmBeat team · Updated November 13, 2026

Short answer: Beaches in Sharm El Sheikh are mostly narrow sandy or pebble shores that lead straight to coral reefs, and many are accessed through hotels or beach clubs. Naama Bay, Shark's Bay and Ras Um Sid are popular areas for swimming and snorkelling, and the sea is swimmable for much of the year.

How do beaches work in Sharm El Sheikh?

The coast is rocky and reef-lined, so many beaches combine a short strip of sand with a pier or entry point to the water. A large share of the shoreline belongs to hotels and beach clubs. Day access, entrance fees and minimum spend vary from place to place, so confirm the conditions before you go.

Which areas are popular for beach time and snorkelling?

• Naama Bay: a sandy bay close to restaurants and shops, convenient for a relaxed beach day.
• Shark's Bay: a stretch of coast with hotels and reef access, popular for snorkelling.
• Ras Um Sid: a reef and lighthouse area known for snorkelling, diving and sunset views.
• Hotel and beach-club shores along the main coast road, many with piers that cross the reef flat.

How do you stay safe and protect the reef?

• Wear reef shoes: sea urchins and sharp coral are common near the shore.
• Never stand on or touch coral. It is fragile and damage can last for years.
• Use reef-safe sun protection and cover up: the sun is strong, even in winter.
• Check conditions and any flags or lifeguard advice before swimming, and swim with a buoy or vest if you are not a confident swimmer.
• Do not feed or chase fish and other marine life.

When is the best time to visit the beaches?

Sharm El Sheikh has a warm desert climate. Summers are very hot and the sea is warm, while winters are mild and the sea is cooler. Many visitors swim all year, and some wear a thin wetsuit for longer snorkelling or diving in winter. Check the weather and wind on the day, as conditions can change the feel of a beach.

Frequently asked questions

Can you snorkel directly from the beach in Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes, at many spots. Piers and entry points let you reach the reef without a boat, but check the entry conditions and use reef shoes and a vest if needed.

Do I have to pay to use a beach?

Often yes. Many beaches belong to hotels or beach clubs and charge an entrance fee or require a minimum spend for non-guests. Always confirm before you go.

Is the sea warm all year?

The sea is warm in summer and cooler in winter. It stays swimmable for many people throughout the year, with a thin wetsuit useful for long sessions in cooler months.

Are the beaches suitable for children?

Many sandy hotel beaches have gentle entry areas, but reef edges and drop-offs are close to shore in many places. Choose a spot with a safe entry and supervise children closely.

More Sharm El Sheikh guides

• Where to Eat in Sharm El Sheikh: Dining areas, local dishes to try and how to choose a restaurant.
• Excursions and Day Trips from Sharm El Sheikh: Boat trips, desert safaris, Mount Sinai, Dahab and how to book.
• Nightlife in Sharm El Sheikh: Nightlife areas, types of venues and tips for going out.
• Living in Sharm El Sheikh: Everyday life, services, work, sport and community for residents.

Venues, schedules and prices change often. This guide gives general information, so confirm details directly with the venue or operator. Published by SharmBeat (Safwa Star S&S LTD).