The Ultimate Guide for Exploring the Red Sea
Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh?
Egypt remains the number one destination for travelers when it comes to an unbeatable sun-to-price ratio, but the question "where should we go?" is on everyone's mind before booking. Although both resorts offer the warm waters of the Red Sea and top-tier All-Inclusive services, the experiences they offer beyond the hotel gates are fundamentally different.
Sharm El Sheikh: Underwater Paradise and Cosmopolitan Life
Located at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh is the indisputable paradise for divers and those who love marine nature in its purest form.
- Coral Gardens at Your Feet: Most hotels here are built on rocky cliffs, providing direct access to spectacular coral reefs via jetties. If you are passionate about snorkelling, Sharm is "heaven": you can see parrotfish, stingrays, and multicoloured corals just a few meters from the shore. The Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve is a mandatory stop, considered one of the best diving spots in the world.
- Nightlife and Entertainment: Sharm has a much more cosmopolitan feel. Soho Square welcomes you with singing fountains, luxury shops, and fine-dining restaurants, while Naama Bay remains the heart of the fun, featuring lively bazaars and famous clubs.
- Sinai Adventure: From Sharm, you can depart on night pilgrimages to Mount Sinai or explore the Colored Canyon, a geological wonder of the desert.
Hurghada: Gateway to Pharaohs' Treasures and Fine Sand Beaches
Hurghada, located on the mainland coast, is the destination that perfectly combines sun-soaked relaxation with the grandeur of ancient history.
- Ideal for Families: The beaches in Hurghada are generally natural, with fine sand and a gentle entry into the water. Unlike Sharm, here children can splash safely directly from the shore without being limited by sharp coral or deep jetties.
- Inroads into Ancient History: Hurghada is the perfect "base" if you want to see Egypt's great temples. From here, access to Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak Temple is much easier and faster. A day spent among the giant columns of the Pharaohs will add a touch of magic and depth to your holiday.
- Exclusivity in Satellite Resorts: If you are looking for a quiet, luxurious experience, areas such as Sahl Hasheesh or Makadi Bay are ideal options. These modern bays offer premium resorts, impeccable promenades, and a much more intimate atmosphere.
Quick Comparison: What Should You Choose?
| Feature | Sharm El Sheikh | Hurghada |
| Snorkeling | Excellent (directly from the hotel) | Good (requires boat trips) |
| Beaches | Mostly with jetties/cliffs | Fine sand, gentle entry |
| Historical Trips | St. Catherine’s Monastery / Cairo | Luxor / Valley of the Kings / Cairo |
| Vibe | Modern, cosmopolitan, vibrant | Traditional, relaxed, family-friendly |
Whether you choose to explore the depths of the Red Sea in Sharm or walk in the footsteps of Egyptian kings starting from Hurghada, with Join UP! you benefit from the best local assistance and a rigorous selection of hotels for all tastes.