Snorkelling in Sharm El Sheikh: A Red Sea Experience to Remember

Imagine swimming underwater next to baby reef sharks as fluorescent fish dart by, and tiny seahorses hover around like they’re weightless. This is just one of many colourful scenes that greet you when you’re snorkelling in Sharm El Sheikh or anywhere else in the Red Sea.

If you’ve been dreaming about exploring one of the best snorkelling spots on the planet – and that's not an exaggeration – then it’s time to pack your bags and head to Egypt.

The Red Sea takes you away from the crowds with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. More specifically, the beauty of snorkelling or diving in Sharm (as locals like to call it) is that you’ll find experiences for every age and ability.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert seeking exclusive excursions, the Red Sea – particularly Sharm – has something for you.

One of the best parts about snorkelling in Sharm El Sheikh is that many Accor hotels are situated right on the water, making it easy to slip from your breakfast table to the sea in minutes. In fact, it's not unusual to see both locals and visitors finishing their morning coffee and then heading straight into their snorkelling or diving gear. It’s really that effortless!

Here, you’ll find Mövenpick Sharm El Sheikh perched on a hillside with sweeping views of Naama Bay – and it’s all about barefoot luxury. Guests can snorkel straight from its private beaches, where coral gardens lie just offshore. Its design gives off Egyptian-Nubian vibes and the hotel’s multiple pools, family-friendly dining, as well as spa treatments make it a versatile choice.

Meanwhile, in the heart of Sharm’s lively promenade, Naama Bay Promenade Beach Resort offers a prime location to enjoy the best snorkelling in Sharm El Sheikh. You’ve got the best of both worlds with direct beach access leading to calm, shallow waters and convenient access to local cafés and outings. Families also love the spacious rooms, and couples enjoy the vibrant nightlife and seaside relaxation.

For those seeking elegance with a modern edge, Swissôtel Sharm El Sheikh delivers just that with a beachfront location that makes it easy to relax. Its Mediterranean-Andalusian design, wellness facilities, and premium dining appeal to couples looking for a stylish base, while families appreciate the spacious suites that make travelling together more comfortable.

Each of these hotels ensures that snorkelling is not just an activity, but part of the daily rhythm of your trip. Step out of your room, grab your mask, and within minutes you're swimming with angelfish. That's the beauty of staying in Sharm with Accor.

Sharm is home to some of the most iconic underwater sites. So it’s no wonder it's long been regarded as the jewel of Egypt's snorkelling scene. With calm, warm waters and world-class coral reefs, it’s both a magical and accessible gateway to Red Sea snorkelling.

Overall, the region caters to every kind of traveller, from novices learning to snorkel in Egypt for the first time, to seasoned underwater adventurers seeking remote reef excursions by day and relaxed coastal vibes at night.

Here, snorkelling isn’t a side activity – it’s a local ritual embraced by many locals and visitors alike. Also, since life on the Red Sea is generally more laid back than other parts of Egypt, there’s never really a bad time to dip in the water. Nonetheless, many snorkellers and divers swear by spring and autumn for the perfect water temperature and visibility.

Divers flock here from around the world simply because the diversity of marine life is staggering. You’ll run into schools of butterflyfish, neon parrotfish, sleek rays, and even the occasional sea turtle or pod of dolphins. This is why both divers and snorkellers swear by the Red Sea.

So, where should you snorkel first? Here are some of the most breathtaking Red Sea snorkelling sites, all within easy reach of Sharm El Sheikh:

Just a 20-30 minute drive away, Ras Mohammed National Park is a protected reserve world-famous for its diverse and dazzling marine life. Picture dramatic coral walls, swaying sea fans, and vibrant schools of reef fish. It’s considered one of the best snorkelling spots Sharm El Sheikh has to offer, with both shallow reefs for beginners and deeper sections that will thrill confident swimmers.

You don’t need to go far from your hotel to experience some of the best underwater wildlife. Naama Bay is the beating heart of Sharm El Sheikh and one of the easiest places to snorkel in Egypt. With its sandy beaches, calm waters, and direct beachfront access, it’s perfect for families and first-timers. And, when you’re staying at any of Accor’s local hotels, you’re good to go because they're located right on or next to the bay. With equipment rental and lively cafés nearby, you’re all set.

Another local favourite that’s popular for families with young snorkellers is Shark’s Bay, which is just a 10-minute drive from Sharm. Don’t let the name fool you – Shark’s Bay is totally safe and teeming with tropical fish. Despite the seemingly intimidating name, it’s actually one of the best places for beginners, thanks to its shallow entry points and calm waters.

Sharm is very beginner-friendly, unlike neighbouring Hurghada, which has many areas more suited for experienced snorkellers and divers. Many of Sharm's beaches have shallow, sheltered waters and soft sand for easy entry. Snorkelling tours usually include equipment rental, safety briefings, and friendly instructors with the patience and skills to turn your little ones (or you) into confident snorkellers.

Some of the best spots are Naama Bay and Shark’s Bay, where you’ve got attentive lifeguards on duty, great facilities, and plenty of shaded umbrellas to lounge under when you’re in between swims. Children can even check out brightly coloured clownfish just metres from shore – no snorkelling or long swims necessary.

If you’re seeking something more exclusive or more exciting things to do in Sharm El Sheikh, this buzzing city definitely doesn’t disappoint. Private experiences range from yacht charters to sunset snorkelling excursions with food and personal service on deck. Some tours even pair snorkelling with wellness add-ons, like morning yoga on the beach or spa treatments after your swim.

In Sharm, there’s no shortage of bespoke options, which are ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or travellers who want a more intimate way to snorkel in Egypt.

If you’re inspired and already packing your bags, make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and your own mask and snorkel if you prefer. Most hotels and tours provide gear, but bringing your own ensures the best fit.

As for underwater etiquette, make sure you don’t touch the coral, stand on reefs, and never feed the fish. For the love of snorkelling, the fish don’t need snacks! Jokes aside, this is to help preserve the fragile Red Sea ecosystem (because we care about the planet), and also to protect snorkellers from any harm.

Lastly, make sure to stick to designated snorkelling zones. Guided tours are recommended if you’re not totally confident in the water. With all that sorted, you’re good to go.

Some of the top spots include Ras Mohammed National Park, Naama Bay, and Shark’s Bay. Each offers something different, from dramatic coral walls to calm, family-friendly shallows.

While you can snorkel year-round thanks to the Red Sea’s warm climate, spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are considered the most comfortable, with ideal water temperatures and visibility.

Yes. Sharm El Sheikh is a great choice for first-time snorkellers or beginners. Many beaches have shallow reefs just offshore, and tours often provide equipment, guides, and safety instructions to make it even easier.

Absolutely. Spots like Naama Bay and Shark’s Bay in Sharm El Sheikh are especially kid-friendly with relaxed, calm waters and lifeguards on hand. Accor hotels in Sharm also have direct access to safe snorkelling areas.

Snorkelling in Sharm is possible all year-round, but the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer the best mix of warm water, pleasant air temperatures, and clear underwater visibility.

You can expect to see a dazzling range of creatures, including clownfish, butterflyfish, parrot-fish, angelfish, rays, and even sea turtles. The coral itself is just as spectacular, with vibrant gardens of hard and soft coral in every colour imaginable.

Mövenpick Sharm El Sheikh, Naama Bay Promenade Beach Resort, and Swissôtel Sharm El Sheikh are excellent options. Each offers direct or easy access to snorkelling, with a mix of family-friendly amenities, couples’ luxuries, and prime beachfront locations.