Sharm El Sheikh is one of the most family-friendly Red Sea destinations, thanks to all-inclusive resorts that pack nearly everything within their gates and marine activities kids can safely try from a young age. Here's how to plan a smooth family trip.
Where to Stay
Nabq Bay and Ras Nasrani are quieter and better suited to families with young children, offering shallow beaches and spacious resorts set somewhat apart from the evening buzz. Naama Bay is livelier and works well for families with teenagers who want restaurants and shops within walking distance. Pick a resort with a certified kids' club if you want some quiet time for yourself — most major Sharm hotels offer this free or for a nominal fee.
Activities for Every Age
Soho Square is the go-to evening spot for families, with its colorful dancing fountain, musical shows, and a safe, walkable atmosphere for light shopping. For water-slide fans, the Aqua Blu resort complex on the Ras Umm El Seed cliff has eight pools and more than sixty slides sorted by age group, including a dedicated toddler zone. Dolphina Park offers the region's largest dolphin show, a hit with children of almost every age. For those who want to see the coral reefs without diving, glass-bottom boats and the Sindbad tourist submarine let kids (or grandparents who'd rather not swim) admire the colorful fish up close.
Family-Friendly Snorkeling
You don't need a long boat trip to introduce your kids to Egypt's famous reefs. Ras Um Sid beach and some of the "house reefs" right off Naama Bay hotels offer relatively shallow, calm water — ideal for a first snorkeling experience for kids roughly six or seven and up, with adult supervision and a life vest. Avoid areas with strong currents or far-out reefs unless you're with a qualified guide.
Practical Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen (oxybenzone-free) to protect the marine environment, and pack hats and protective clothing for sensitive skin — the sun here is strong nearly year-round. Keep everyone well-hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the peak midday heat in summer. Teach kids not to touch coral or fish, both to respect the ecosystem and to avoid jellyfish stings or sea urchin spines, which are usually painful but not dangerous. Most restaurants in tourist areas offer kids' menus and high chairs, and stroller access is fairly easy along the main paved promenades in Naama Bay and Soho Square.
With a little planning, Sharm El Sheikh becomes one of the easiest and most enjoyable family destinations within reach of Saudi Arabia.
