Diving in Sharm el-Sheikh

Explore 95 dive sites in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in Sharm el-Sheikh

The warmest water temperatures in Sharm el-Sheikh occur in August, averaging 29.9°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 22.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.6°C
  • February: 22.8°C
  • March: 22.5°C
  • April: 23.3°C
  • May: 25.6°C
  • June: 26.9°C
  • July: 28.4°C
  • August: 29.9°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 27.8°C
  • November: 27.1°C
  • December: 25.3°C

Marine Life in Sharm el-Sheikh

Home to 13 recorded species including 6 whales & dolphins, 5 reef fish, 1 sharks & rays, 1 crabs & lobsters.

Dive Site Difficulty in Sharm el-Sheikh

Sharm el-Sheikh has 14 beginner, 3 intermediate dive sites - suitable for divers of all levels.

Recommended Packing List for Sharm el-Sheikh

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 10 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Marine Protected Areas in Sharm el-Sheikh

  • محمية رأس محمد - National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • محمية نبق - Multiple Use Management Area (IUCN Category VI)
  • محمية أبو جالوم - Multiple Use Management Area (IUCN Category VI)
  • شعاب البحر الأحمر - Developing Resources Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Reported)

Getting to Sharm el-Sheikh - Nearest Airports

  • Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH), Sharm El Sheikh - 21 km away, approx 37 min travel time
  • Hurghada International Airport (HRG), Hurghada - 89 km away, approx 112 min travel time
  • Neom Bay Airport (NUM), Sharma - 107 km away, approx 131 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water conditions and visibility like for diving in Sharm el-Sheikh?
Sharm el-Sheikh offers excellent water conditions, with optimal temperatures reaching 29.86°C in August, 28.65°C in September, and 28.45°C in July. While specific visibility data is not provided, the region is described as the gateway to the Red Sea's finest diving, suggesting generally clear and inviting waters for an exceptional dive experience. For more on seasonal conditions, visit DivePlnr's When to Dive guide.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see in Sharm el-Sheikh?
Divers in Sharm el-Sheikh can anticipate a rich variety of marine life, including sharks, particularly around Ras Mohammed National Park's Shark Reef. Reef sites like Turtle Bay also suggest encounters with turtles, alongside the diverse ecosystem supported by world-class wall and reef diving. Explore more about marine species in our Wildlife Database.
What are the best dive sites in Sharm el-Sheikh for different experience levels?
For beginners, sites like Ras Bob, Turtle Bay, and Paradise offer beautiful reef diving. Intermediate divers have a vast selection, including the famous HMS Thistlegorm wreck, the challenging walls of Straits of Tiran, and the reef at Ras Gomaa. With 104 dive sites, Sharm el-Sheikh caters to a wide range of experience levels.
Is Sharm el-Sheikh suitable for beginner divers, or is it more for advanced divers?
Sharm el-Sheikh is highly suitable for both beginner and more experienced divers. There are numerous beginner-friendly reef sites such as Ras Bob, Turtle Bay, and Paradise, perfect for those just starting out. Intermediate and advanced divers will find world-class challenges at sites like the HMS Thistlegorm wreck and the wall diving in the Straits of Tiran, making Sharm el-Sheikh a versatile destination.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Sharm el-Sheikh for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
For optimal water conditions in Sharm el-Sheikh, the best months are August (29.86°C), September (28.65°C), and July (28.45°C). These months offer the warmest and most comfortable diving temperatures. While specific marine life seasonality is not detailed, these periods generally provide excellent conditions for exploring the Red Sea's vibrant ecosystems. Learn more about seasonal diving at DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
How do I get to Sharm el-Sheikh for a diving trip?
The provided data context does not contain information regarding travel logistics or how to get to Sharm el-Sheikh for a diving trip. Please consult external travel resources for transportation details.
Are there any specific dive sites in Sharm el-Sheikh known for wreck diving?
Yes, Sharm el-Sheikh is renowned for its exceptional wreck diving opportunities, primarily for intermediate divers. Notable wreck sites include the famous HMS Thistlegorm, Dunraven Wreck, Million Hope, Louilla, SS Turkia, Kingston Wreck, Kormoran, Ulysses, and Barge de Gubal. These sites offer fascinating historical exploration beneath the waves.
What are the currents typically like at popular Sharm el-Sheikh dive sites?
The provided data context does not offer specific information regarding the typical current conditions at popular dive sites in Sharm el-Sheikh. Divers should consult local dive centers for up-to-date information on currents before planning their dives.