Sun, Red Sea and Sand: The Best Stays in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh - the jewel of Egypt’s South Sinai, the gateway to the Red Sea with all of its coral reefs and high-flying windsurfing opportunities, and - for many - the beachside destination of choice to make the most of the summer, and to escape to during the winter. While neighbouring destinations have begun to share the spotlight, Sharm El Sheikh has something they don’t – time-tested stays that balance Sinai’s zen state-of-mind with luxury experiences. Here are a few that stand out from the rest…

Four Seasons Resort | $297/night

Built into a hillside overlooking the Red Sea, this Four Seasons location features low-rise Moorish architecture. With 200 keys, each room comes with its own balcony or terrace. Grouped into clusters and spread across the grounds to create a rustic village feel. Guests have access to a funicular railway from the main hotel area to the private coral beach, where they can relax in the Observatory Lounge as the sun sets.

Baron Palms Resort | $263/night

This adults-only five-star boutique resort is a playful break from hectic city life. Despite being a boutique spot, this hotel features two pools (one of which is Olympic sized), as well as hot tubs, waterfalls, beach volleyball, beach soccer, water sports and tennis. The hotel’s long list of dining options and entertainment, including live music, offer an array of nightlife pastimes.

Steigenberger Alcazar | $225/night

Located in South Sinai’s Nabq Bay, just 400 metres from its centre, the hotel is best-loved for their quad biking trips, while the huge 30,000 square metre private beach is ideal for beginner-level snorkelers. The resort features 610 rooms and three swimming pools which are heated during the winter. Their food options include Japanese and Italian cuisine, while activities include relaxing yoga classes.

Rixos Premium Seagate | $325/night

With its own protected coral reef, the Rixos Premium Seagate is a wonderland for divers. Discover the underwater marine world at the foot of the hotel’s lush landscaped gardens and beachfront, or break a sweat within the hotel complex by partaking in their extensive activities programme. Take it easy with a Turkish bath followed by a meal at one of the hotel’s 11 eateries.

Royal Savoy Sharm El Sheikh | $269/night

Travellers seeking quality  couple time will appreciate this sleek Savoy Beach-located adults-only hotel. The relatively central Soho Square location is ideal for those wishing to explore the local nightlife, but with 14 international restaurants and 20 bars and lounges on site, you might not find the time.

Iberotel Palace | $180/night

Another adults-only location, this complex features rooms with balconies overlooking Sharm El Maya Bay, with two freshwater outdoor pools and a shuttle boat service to a coral beach. All rooms in the hotel feature a private balcony or terrace with views of the pool, sea, or the garden. Guests can choose between seafood, Italian specialities and meat dishes, and sip an exotic cocktail at the poolside bar at one of their eight eateries. Then, you can head to the spa for relaxing treatments, massages, sauna, steam or the two tennis courts and water sports facilities for some added action.

Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh Resort | $140/night

Just 10 minutes away from Sharm El Sheikh’s central Naama Bay, this hotel has its own shopping locations, a spa, and five restaurants on-ground. With not one, but three private beaches and lagoon-style swimming pools, this five-star Sharm El Sheikh stay is set in a lush garden landscape. Every room at the hotel includes a sea-view balcony and deluxe bath amenities enriched with Dead Sea minerals.

Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort | $220/night

Featuring a total of 13 pools, this resort also comes with a private beach, a tennis court, and a stunning view of the Sinai Mountains. Among a wide range of culinary specialties at the stay, there are 10 bars, with some offering entertainment in the evenings.