Sharm el-Sheikh is a natural family destination, with warm water, reliable sunshine and resorts built for children. The trick is to balance the big days out with quiet days by the pool and to choose activities that suit your children's ages. Here is how to plan it.
Start with the resort
A family holiday here usually revolves around the hotel, so choose one with pools, shade and a children's club if you can, and check the beach arrangements and the sea entry before you book. All-inclusive rates, offered by several resorts in this guide, simplify mealtimes and snacks, which matters when children are hungry on a schedule. Light sleepers should ask for a room away from the stage and the pool bar.
Gentle sea days
The semi-submarine and glass-bottom boat rides are the easiest introduction to the reef for young children, because they stay dry and see the fish through large windows. Older children who can swim well enjoy the Ras Mohammed and White Island boat trip, with its sandbank beach and snorkeling stops, and the lunch on board. Always use life vests for children, keep them in sight in the water and apply reef-safe sunscreen. Choose the earliest departure to avoid the strongest sun, and bring hats, rash vests and snacks.
Splash days
A day at an aqua park gives children freshwater slides and pools, and gives parents a break from the sea. A banana boat and water sports session is more lively and suits teenagers and older children who can hold on and wear a life jacket. Check the age, weight and height limits in advance, and keep an eye on the sun, which is stronger than it feels with the sea breeze.
Desert evenings
The quad bike, camel ride and Bedouin dinner is a favourite, but the quads suit older children, while younger ones can ride a camel or watch the show. Dust and cold evenings catch families out, so bring scarves, closed shoes and a warm layer. Ask whether child seats or smaller quads are available, and whether the dinner includes simple dishes for fussy eaters. For horse riding at Nabq Bay, check the minimum age and the riders' weight limits.
Easy evenings
The Naama Bay promenade is lively but flat and easy to walk, with cafes and shops, and SOHO Square has entertainment for families. A dinner cruise or an evening show can be a treat for older children, but late nights and loud music tire the youngest. Check the age policy and keep your child's routine in mind. Pack earplugs for the loudest shows.
Culture without the stress
The Old Market and the Al Sahaba Mosque are a gentle introduction to local life, and a short guided tour is easier than an independent walk in the heat. A visit to the city museum is a cool, indoor option for children who like stories and objects. Dress modestly for the mosque, and bring a scarf for covering shoulders.
What to skip with young children
The long day trips are demanding. The Mount Sinai sunrise trip starts in the middle of the night and involves a steep climb, the flight days to Cairo, Luxor and Petra are long and tiring, and the Dahab and Blue Hole day involves hours on the road. Leave these for older children or another trip. Likewise, the diving options are for certified divers and teenagers who qualify, while younger children can try snorkeling or the semi-submarine.
Sun, water and health
The Sinai sun is strong all year, so use high-factor reef-safe sunscreen, hats and shade, and drink more water than you think you need. Introduce new foods slowly, keep hand sanitiser in your bag and choose bottled water for drinking and teeth cleaning. Carry a basic first-aid kit, motion-sickness tablets for boat days and any regular medicines. Travel insurance that covers the activities you plan is a sensible precaution.
A sample family week
Day one, settle in and swim. Day two, a semi-submarine ride and a quiet afternoon. Day three, the Ras Mohammed and White Island boat trip. Day four, a pool and aqua park day. Day five, the Old Market and a promenade evening. Day six, the desert evening. Day seven, rest and pack. Adjust it to your children's energy, and leave a slack day for tired children or rough seas.
