The 7 Best Snorkeling Spots in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh sits at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Red Sea. The result is some of the most biodiverse, crystal-clear water on the planet. Water visibility regularly exceeds 30 metres, and the coral ecosystems here rival anywhere in the Indian Ocean. Whether you're a first-time snorkeler or an experienced freediver, these seven spots will leave you speechless.
1. Ras Mohammed National Park
Ras Mohammed is the crown jewel of Sinai snorkeling. As a protected marine national park, its reefs have been untouched for decades. The most famous snorkeling area is the Shark Reef and Jolanda Reef — two submerged plateaus that plunge dramatically into the deep blue. You'll encounter giant Napoleon wrasse, schools of barracuda, reef sharks (harmless whitetips), and walls of anthias fish. The best access is by boat trip from Sharm El Sheikh marina.
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2. Naama Bay Reef
For beginners, Naama Bay offers sheltered, calm snorkeling directly off the beach. The reef begins just 20–30 metres from shore and is home to parrotfish, clownfish (yes, the Nemo fish), angelfish, and sea turtles. It's shallow enough for children and non-swimmers with a flotation belt. Entry is free and gear can be rented on the beach.
3. The Tower (Near Naama Bay)
A short boat ride from Naama Bay, The Tower is a famous dive site that also rewards snorkelers at the surface. A coral pillar rises from the sandy bottom and is draped with soft corals and sponges. Reef fish are abundant, and on lucky days you may spot a passing octopus or moray eel just below the surface.
4. Ras Umm Sid
Located near the Old Market area (Na'ama Bay's southern neighbour), Ras Umm Sid is one of Sharm's most spectacular reef walls. The top of the reef is accessible from shore via a short rocky entry, and the coral garden stretches hundreds of metres in both directions. Look for lionfish hovering near the reef crevices and the extraordinary glassfish clouds that form near the surface each morning.
5. White Island (Near White Knight)
Reachable by boat excursion, White Island is a sandbar surrounded by pristine shallow reef — perfect for snorkeling. This is one of the spots included in the popular Ras Mohammed & White Island boat trip. The shallow lagoon protects against current, and the coral gardens are exceptionally colourful. Hawksbill turtles are frequently spotted here.
6. Tiran Island
The straits between Tiran Island and the Sinai Peninsula channel nutrient-rich water from the Gulf of Aqaba, creating exceptional marine life. The four famous reef systems of Tiran (Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, and Gordon) have sites accessible to snorkelers near their tops. Conditions here are more challenging — currents can be strong — so this is best for confident swimmers on a guided boat trip.
7. Shark's Bay
A hidden gem favoured by locals, Shark's Bay has a pristine, uncrowded reef directly accessible from a quiet beach. Despite the name, shark sightings here are rare — it refers to the bay's shape. You'll find healthy table corals and fan corals, along with reef species including surgeonfish, triggerfish, and the occasional pufferfish.
Best Time of Year for Snorkeling
- October–May: Ideal water temperature (22–26°C), excellent visibility, fewer jellyfish. Peak season is December–February for Europeans.
- June–September: Hot air temperatures (35–40°C) but water is warm (28–30°C). Manta rays visit Ras Mohammed during summer months. More crowded.
- Year-round: Unlike many tropical destinations, Sharm El Sheikh snorkeling is genuinely good all year. There is no monsoon season.
What Gear to Bring
- Mask and snorkel: Rent locally (20–50 EGP/day) or bring your own for hygiene. A dry-top snorkel keeps water out when waves wash over.
- Fins: Not essential in calm bays but greatly improve efficiency at sites with current. Open-heel adjustable fins are most versatile.
- Wetsuit or rash guard: Water is warm but a 2mm shorty offers sun protection, buoyancy, and protection from coral stings. Essential October–April when water dips to 22°C.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Regular sunscreen destroys coral. Use mineral-based zinc oxide cream. Egypt does not yet ban chemical sunscreens, but responsible travelers use reef-safe products.
- Underwater camera or GoPro: The marine life here is spectacular. A simple waterproof housing for your smartphone works well in shallow water.
Booking Tips
The easiest way to access the best sites — Ras Mohammed, Tiran, White Island — is via a full-day boat trip from Sharm El Sheikh marina. These trips typically visit 2–3 snorkeling spots, provide equipment, lunch, and a guide. They depart at 9am and return by 4pm.
Book early in peak season (December–February) as trips fill up fast. For the best experience, choose a smaller boat (maximum 12 guests) rather than a large party boat. See our Ras Mohammed snorkeling tour →
FAQ: Snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh
Is snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh safe?
Yes, Sharm El Sheikh is one of the safest snorkeling destinations in the world. The reefs inside the national park are protected, currents at most snorkeling sites are gentle, and qualified guides accompany all boat trips. Jellyfish are occasionally present in summer (June–August) — wearing a rash guard provides protection.
Can beginners snorkel at Ras Mohammed?
Yes, with a guided boat trip. The boat anchors over the reef top where depths are 1–4 metres — perfectly manageable for beginners. You don't need to be a strong swimmer, but you should be comfortable in open water. Flotation belts are provided on all guided trips.
Are there sharks at the snorkeling sites?
Whitetip reef sharks are occasionally seen at Ras Mohammed, typically at depth. They are non-aggressive and pose no danger to snorkelers. The 2010 shark incidents in Sharm (near the beach areas) were isolated and are not representative of normal conditions — shark attacks have not recurred.
How much does a snorkeling day trip cost?
A full-day guided boat trip to Ras Mohammed including equipment, lunch, and transport from your hotel typically costs $35–70 USD per person depending on boat size and season. Snorkeling directly from Naama Bay beach is free (equipment rental 50–100 EGP). Book in advance online for the best rates.