The Bays of Sharm el-Sheikh: Which One to Choose?
Sharm el-Sheikh stretches for several dozen kilometres along the Red Sea coast, and every bay has its own character: in some the coral reef starts right by the shore, in others there is a gentle sandy entry for children, and elsewhere the nightlife is in full swing. Here is how to choose a bay for your holiday.
Sharm el-Sheikh bays compared
Bay | Sea entry | Wind | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
Nabq Bay | pontoons over the reef | strongest | windsurfing, new hotels |
Sharks Bay | pontoons, reef by the shore | almost none | snorkelling, walks |
Naama Bay | sandy, gentle | light | young people, nightlife |
Ras Um El Sid | steps and pontoons | sheltered by cliffs | diving, views |
Sharm el-Maya | sandy | most sheltered | families with children |
Hadaba | terraced beaches | light | a quiet holiday |
Nabq Bay
The northernmost bay, close to the airport. Beaches have long pontoons because of the shallow reef flat near the shore, the tides are noticeable, and the wind is stronger than in other bays, which windsurfers love. There are many new hotels, and the Nabq Protected Area with its mangroves is nearby.
Sharks Bay
One of the best-known bays: there is almost no wind even in winter, no currents, and a beautiful coral reef that starts right by the shore. Outside the hotels you can stroll around Soho Square with shops, restaurants, an ice rink and a dancing fountain.
Naama Bay
The oldest and liveliest tourist bay, with a promenade, cafes, shisha bars, clubs and a Hard Rock Cafe. Most hotels have a sandy, gentle entry into the sea, while there is little reef in the bay itself, only at its edges. The most popular choice among young people.
Ras Um El Sid
The hotels stand on cliffs, so the beaches are mostly terraced, with great sea views. The bay is sheltered from the wind, and the Ras Um Sid reef is considered one of the best diving and snorkelling spots in Sharm. Entertainment is mostly within the hotels.
Sharm el-Maya
The bay most sheltered from the wind, with a sandy beach and an easy entry into the sea. There is a reef, reached by pontoons. The Old Market and many shops are nearby, so the bay is often chosen by families with children and for shopping.
Hadaba
A residential district on a plateau above the sea. Hotel grounds are terraced, the reef is beautiful and the wind is light. In one part of the bay there is no entry from the shore, while further south there are hotels with sandy entries. The Il Mercato promenade is here.
Frequently asked questions
Which Sharm el-Sheikh bay is best for children?
Sharm el-Maya or hotels with a sandy entry in Naama Bay, where the sea is calm and the entry gentle.
Where is the best reef for snorkelling in Sharm?
In Sharks Bay and Ras Um El Sid, where the reef starts almost at the shore.
Which bay has the most entertainment?
Naama Bay, with its promenade, restaurants, cafes and clubs.
A Fly&Joy manager will help you choose a hotel in the right bay for your dates and budget.