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Ras Mohammed National Park near Sharm El Sheikh
20 Sep 2026

Best Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is a wonderful place which combines the best of both Red Sea and the Sinai desert and offers the perfect blend for travellers interested in a mixture of beaches, wildlife, adventures, relaxation, and experience of the local culture. Whether it is the vibrant coral reefs of Ras Mohammed and Straits of Tiran or the bustling scene of Naama Bay and the old market of Sharm El Sheikh, there is no shortage of places to visit other than just the resort. Rich Holidays offers travellers opportunities to experience these diverse sides of Sharm El Sheikh.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, beach holidays, diving experience, or a quick tour of Egypt, here are some must-do activities in Sharm El Sheikh.

Dive and Snorkel in the Red Sea

For most tourists, the Red Sea forms the primary reason behind their choice of Sharm El Sheikh. The beaches are endowed with coral reefs and crystal-clear water allowing tourists to observe various species of fishes and other aquatic animals through snorkeling or diving.
It does not matter whether you are an advanced diver or not as there are many different diving spots which can accommodate everyone. Various diving spots are suitable for snorkeling while advanced divers will definitely find some other locations to explore. According to the official Egyptian tourism website, the most important ones include Ras Um Al Sid, the Gardens, Shark's Bay and the Straits of Tiran.

Ras Mohammed National Park

Ras Mohammed National Park is an interesting place to visit when staying in Sharm El Sheikh. The park is situated in the most southern point of the Sinai Peninsula and contains rich coral reefs, marine life, mangrove trees and unique coastlines. The park was declared the first national park in Egypt in 1983.
There are two ways to get to the park - either by boat or by car. Those who prefer snorkeling can swim in shallow waters of the reefs, and scuba divers have an opportunity to explore such reefs as Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef.

Straits of Tiran

The Straits of Tiran is yet another favourite among tourists for boat excursions and diving. This is an area characterized by coral reefs and aquatic ecosystem, with some reef spots frequented by divers and snorkelers coming from Sharm El Sheikh.
Those travelers that would like to spend the whole day on water could consider taking a boat excursion in the reefs which allows swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and having lunch in the water.

Relax on Sharm El Sheikh's Beautiful Beaches

But not all days of Sharm el-Sheikh should be crowded with things to do. For relaxing on the beach, swimming in clear water, enjoying sunshine or just sitting next to the Red Sea, there are no better places.
The Naama Bay is one of the most famous spots with the busy promenade lined with hotels, restaurants, cafes and entertainments.


The Shark's Bay provides yet another attractive scenery surrounded with rocky hills and convenient for getting close to other marine attractions. This bay is also used as a starting point for excursions by boat to diving spots.
A natural reserve at the coast – Nabq Protectorate – is a place for those, who are interested not only in the sea but in nature itself.

Explore the Desert on a Sinai Adventure

The most exciting activity when visiting Sharm El Sheikh is to step out of the coastal areas and see the desert of Sinai.
Desert tours may consist of quad biking, camel riding, four-wheel driving or bedouin tour style. This area presents a totally different scenery from the beaches and reefs, which are dominated by mountain areas, desert land and big skies at night.
A desert tour can also be coupled with bedouin dinner under the stars. The visitors who prefer active activities will get excited with desert riding on quads.
Nabq Protectorate is a unique place to visit for nature lovers as this place is home to desert, coastline and mangroves.

Visit the Old Market, Naama Bay and SOHO Square

However, Sharm El Sheikh offers not only beaches and diving. Each district of the city offers many possibilities for shopping, eating and having fun at night.

Old Market

Old Market is an ideal place to experience Sharm El Sheikh in its traditional face. This market sells souvenirs, spices, clothing, handicrafts, and all kinds of local goods. This area is especially good to visit in the evening since there are many restaurants and cafes there.

Naama Bay

This bay is one of the main places for entertainment in Sharm El Sheikh. You can have a walk on the promenade, have dinner or a cup of coffee or spend an evening there.

SOHO Square

For a more modern evening in a resort, you can visit SOHO Square. It is a combination of restaurants, cafes, entertainment and shopping that attracts couples, families and groups that have spent a day at the beach.

Take a Boat Trip or Enjoy a Day Away from the Resort

Boating around the Red Sea is one of the easiest and most convenient means of getting a different perspective of the sea.
White Island in the area of Ras Mohammed is also an interesting destination when possible, with the sand bank sometimes appearing during low tide and with the surroundings of clear shallow waters.
Those who have more time may also use Sharm El Sheikh as a departure point for excursions outside the city, where the destinations towards Saint Catherine would provide a totally different Sinai landscape of mountains and the historical/cultural aspect of the destination.
It is diversity that makes Sharm El Sheikh Day Tours so attractive - one day under the Red Sea and another day into the desert or the mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our Egypt tours, tour packages, Nile cruises, private tours, and travel services. Everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Egypt with confidence.

What are the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh?

Popular activities range from diving and snorkeling, visiting the Ras Mohammed National Park, relaxing at the beaches, visiting the Old Market, desert safaris to nightlife in Naama Bay and SOHO Square.

Is Sharm El Sheikh good for snorkeling?

Yes. Sharm El Sheikh has numerous coral reefs that can be explored by snorkellers, including areas around Ras Mohammed, Shark's Bay, Ras Um Al Sid and the Gardens.

Is Ras Mohammed worth visiting from Sharm El Sheikh?

Ras Mohammed is one of the major natural attractions near Sharm El Sheikh. Its protected coral reefs, marine life, mangroves and coastal scenery make it a popular choice for both diving and snorkeling.

What can you do in Sharm El Sheikh besides diving?

There are plenty of alternatives, including snorkeling, boat trips, beach days, quad biking, camel riding, desert safaris, shopping, dining and visiting local entertainment areas.

What is there to do in Sharm El Sheikh at night?

Evening options include walking around Naama Bay, dining at local restaurants, shopping at the Old Market and enjoying entertainment at SOHO Square.

Is Sharm El Sheikh suitable for families?

Yes. Families can choose from beaches, boat trips, snorkeling, easy water activities, entertainment areas and excursions into the desert. The destination offers both relaxed and more adventurous activities.

Can you visit the desert from Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes. Desert excursions are a popular activity and can include quad biking, camel rides, 4x4 trips and Bedouin experiences.

How many days do you need in Sharm El Sheikh?

Around 4 to 5 days gives many travellers enough time to combine beach relaxation with activities such as snorkeling, a Ras Mohammed trip, a desert safari and evenings in areas such as Naama Bay or the Old Market.

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