Located at the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm snorkeling spots offers a advantage over Hurghada and Marsa Alam: the high mountains of the Sinai interior provide a natural windbreak for many of the coastal bays, like Nabq Bay and Shark’s Bay, often resulting in calmer surface conditions even when the Red Sea is acting up.
Whether you are exploring the legendary Ras Mohammed National Park or the house reef, understanding the local conditions is the key.
Water Temperatures in Sharm El Sheikh
In Sharm, the water temperature follows a seasonal curve similar to the rest of the northern Red Sea. While the water is incredibly clear, the winter months are slightly cooler than in Marsa Alam.
- Summer (June–September): A tropical 26°C to 28°C. This is the time for long, effortless snorkeling sessions in just a rash guard.
- Winter (December–March): A refreshing 21°C to 23°C. During these months, I always recommend a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit to ensure you can stay in the water long enough to truly enjoy the reefs.
The dominant wind in Sharm El Sheikh comes from the North/Northwest. However, unlike Hurghada or Marsa Alam, Sharm is somewhat protected by mountains that take some of the wind.
Many of the most popular snorkeling spots—like Naama Bay, Ras Um Sid, and Shark’s Bay—are south-facing. This means the land and the mountains block the wind, keeping the water in the bays calm and flat even when the open sea is choppy.
If you are a beginner or a photographer looking for calm water, Sharm is often your best bet.
Visibility and Tides
Sharm is world-renowned for its visibility, often reaching 20 to 30 meters.
The Current Factor: Because Sharm is located where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Strait of Tiran, some areas (like Ras Mohammed) can have strong currents. These currents bring nutrient-rich water, which is why the corals are so healthy, but they require you to be mindful of wind and tide changes!
