10 Fun Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Thousands of Britons visit Egypt every year. And if they're not exploring the Egyptian history in the museums of Cairo or the Pyramids, chances are they're sunning themselves on the beautiful Sharm El Sheikh beaches
But it's not all sunbathing - there are plenty of other fun activities for the whole family, including the possibility of taking a trip from Sharm El Sheik to the Pyramids!
Here we look at what to do in Sharm El Sheikh, asides from hitting the beaches...
Sinai Desert Safari
Of all the things to do in Sharm El Sheik, a desert safari is on many travellers lists when visiting Egypt.
Trek through wild canyons, drink tea with welcoming Bedouins, and fall asleep under the stars; Really discover the true heart of the Sinai Peninsula with a Sharm El Sheikh desert safari.
An unparalleled world of beauty and silence awaits - not to mention a plethora of Instagram snaps!
SoHo Square
After a few days and nights in the spellbinding quiet of the desert, you may well feel the draw of Western delights.
In SoHo Square, Sharm el Sheikh, you'll find them!
There’s an array of sports activities on offer at SoHo Square, some great shopping experiences and some fabulous entertainment to enjoy, whilst the Culturama cinema experience. is a great way to learn more about the history of Egypt.
Taking a journey through time, from 3000 BC till the modern day. you will pass through a selection of the many temples and monuments that Egypt is famous for.
In the centre of SOHO Square, you’ll find the Dancing Fountain, which, in the evening, illuminates a spectacular light show in a rainbow of colours.
Plus, with an ice rink, ten-pin bowling, children’s arcades, ball pools and soft play, as well as a merry-go-around, carousel and fun fair rides for the younger members of the family, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained at SoHo Square.
When you’ve worked up a hunger, choose from a selection of international cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
For those wanting to party into the night, SoHo Squares selection of bars and clubs are sure to appeal, including the very first Ice bar to open in the Middle East!
This is arguably the greatest shopping and entertainment zone in the Red Sea region.
Glass-bottom boat trip
One of the most popular things to do in Sharm El Sheik is to discover the underwater tourist attractions of the Red Sea, with Sharm being widely known as one of the world’s top diving destinations.
Want to enjoy the kaleidoscopic colours of the Red Sea, but not qualified for diving and don't fancy snorkelling? Then a glass-bottom boat cruise could be ideal.
Most cruises include the Near and Far Gardens - two sites known for their amazing corals and marine life.
Enjoy luminous corals, teeming fish and majestic turtles - through the wide glass floor.
Old Market
No trip to Egypt is complete without a few hours of haggling in a bazaar - and one of the nation's finest is the Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh.
Experience a selection of shops lining the narrow alleyways, selling everything from fruits and spices, sweets, oils and perfumes and clothing and souvenirs.
Barter like the locals and who knows what bargains you may be able to get!
Even if you’re not looking to buy any souvenirs to take home, the market is a great experience for just wandering around. At the Centre of the market there is also a stunning mosque - El Sahaba, the largest mosque in the city - which is worth a visit (and is the ideal landmark to use to get your bearings in the myriad of alleyways!)
There’s some great food options available around the Old Market, and at some of these you will find entertainment such as belly dancing shows.
There are numerous guided tours available inclusive of transfers, but if you're feeling brave you can organise the experience for yourself.
Ras Mohammed National Park
Located just 12km from Sharm El Sheik, the Ras Mohammed National Park was established in 1983, to enable the conservation of the valuable ecological life on the Sinai Peninsula
Of the 185 square miles (480 sq km), 133 square miles (345 sq km) is marine and protects the Red Sea Reef. Along with the Red Sea Reef, there are two islands just off the peninsula - Tiran and Sanafir. - which are part of the park’s protected area.
Ras Mohammed National Park is suitable for diving and snorkeling year-round, with the waters at their warmest between July and September;
More than 220 species of coral are found in the Ras Muhammad area,1000 species of fish, 40 species of star fish, 25 species of sea urchins, more than a 100 species of mollusc and 150 species of crustaceans.
Stingray, sharks and sea turtles, such as the green turtle and the hawksbill turtle can also be found here.
Ras Mohammed National Park is suitable for diving and snorkeling year-round, with the waters at their warmest between July and September;
Within the Ras Mohammed Park, you’ll also find a salt lake, mangroves and hidden beaches, with all manner of wildlife.
Naama Bay
If you've booked a week or so in a Sharm El Sheikh hotel, chances are you'll stumble across Naama Bay by yourself.
Yes, it's rather touristy, but it offers all the comforts you could wish for, including cafes, restaurants, hotels - and yet more bazaars!
Diving in Naama Bay
Naama Bay is a popular snorkelling and diving spot, Here you’ll experience an underwater life, teaming with colourful fish and coral.
In the North of Naama Bay, there are eight diving spots known as:
- Middle Garden
- Ras Ghamila
- Far Garden
- White Knight
- Ras Nasrani
- Ras Bob
- Shark Bay
- Near Garden
In the South of Naama Bay, there are nine diving spots:
- Turtle Bay
- Sodfa
- Pinky Wall
- Tower
- Ras Umm Sid
- Ras Kady
- Paradise
- Amphoras
Naama Bay Nightlife
Naama Bay really comes alive in the evenings. As Sharm’s premier clubbing spot, Naama is home to internationally known clubs such as Pacha, and the 10,000 capacity Space Sharm.
Another favourite among tourists in Naama Bay is the Camel Bar. The bar is popular for watching live sports, as well as karaoke and live band nights, whilst the roof top bar offers panoramic views of the sea and mountains.
Naama Bay also offers a host of relaxed beachside bars and British-style pubs
For food, don’t miss the Hard Rock Café and Buddha Bar. For something more traditional, Boharat is a popular choice.
Parasailing
Life isn't a spectator sport, as they say - and you certainly won't get accused of being a spectator while under a parachute that's being pulled by a speedboat!
Rise high over the domes of Sharm El Sheikh for 10 unforgettable minutes. And if you're nervous, why not book a double parasail trip?
Swimming with dolphins in Sharm El Sheikh
You can visit Dolphina to watch the dolphin show, but to elevate your day out, it’s possible to experience the joy of swimming with dolphins during your time in Sharm El Sheikh.
There are many excursions available allowing you to get up close to these beautiful, intelligent creatures. Prices can vary and you may find it cheaper to book your dolphin experience directly with the park.
It’s possible to arrange 15 or 30 minute sessions to swim with dolphins in Sharm, at Dolphina. The park also arranges a unique wedding proposal opportunities, with private bookings available for couples.
Find out more at: https://dolphina.net/
If you're concerned about dolphins living in captivity, you might prefer to book a boat trip such as one of the ones available from Sharm to Tiran Island, on which you'll possibly have a chance of spotting dolphins in the wild!
Aqua Blu & Albatros Aqua Park
Looking for things to do in Sharm El Sheik with the kids?
Aside from dolphin watching and boat trips, the water parks are a popular attraction for families to visit in Sharm El Sheik.
After all, nothing says 'summer holidays' quite like a trip to a water park - and in Sharm El Sheikh, by far the best is the Aqua Blu & Albatros Aqua Park.
Kids are sure to love the many slides and pools available, not to mention the ample free food.
The park and connected hotel have received rave reviews for the dedication and friendliness of the staff.
For those staying in and around Naama Bay, the Aqua Park Egyptian themed Cleo Park with waterslides, wave pools and lazy rivers provides another option for a family day at a Sharm water park.
Pyramids of Giza
Didn’t think a trip to visit the Great Pyramids of Giza would be on a list of things to do when visiting Sharm?
Despite being located some way from Sharm El Sheikh, tours are available to visit the Pyramids of Giza.
So, just how far are the pyramids from Sharm El Sheik?
How far is Sharm El Sheikh from the Pyramids?
The distance from Sharm El Sheikh to the Pyramids of Giza is around 500km by road.
Can I visit the Pyramids of Giza from Sharm El Sheikh on a day trip?
Yes, companies such as www.sharm-club.com offer private tours with flights, to the Pyramids from Sharm El Sheikh.
Trip duration from Sharm El Sheik to the Pyramids is around 15 hours and includes flights from Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo.
Can I get a bus tour from Sharm El Sheikh to the Pyramids?
A tour to the Pyramids from Sharm El Sheikh via bus is also possible, but it’s worth noting that the bus journey can take up to 7 hours!
Being that Sharm El Sheik to the Pyramids is so far, pick ups from hotels in Sharm El Sheik are very early in the morning (usually around 1am), with arrival back at the hotel the same day around 11pm.
Egypt Holidays
Looking to discover more of Egypt? Find out more about what there is to do in Egypt on our Egypt travel guide.
If you’re planning a stay in Cario, here’s our look at the best hotels in Cairo, as well as budget options.