Snorkeling and Turtle Watching: The Red Sea Without Scuba
Sharm's shallow inshore reefs are accessible to anyone who can swim. Sea turtles are regularly sighted at several beaches. Glass-bottom boats, semi-submersibles and snorkeling trips ensure everyone gets to experience the underwater world.
- 1
Turtle Bay
A stretch of natural beach north of Naama Bay named for the green sea turtles that regularly feed on the seagrass beds in the shallows. Mornings offer the best chance of sightings.
- 2
Snorkeling from the Beach
Unlike many Red Sea resorts, Sharm has accessible snorkeling directly from several public and hotel beaches, particularly at Shark Bay and Ras Um Sid where the reef starts in shallow water.
- 3
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Hour-long glass-bottom boat excursions cruise the reefs around Naama Bay, providing reef views for non-swimmers and children. Captains often point out turtles, rays and schools of fish from above.
- 4
Marine Biology Guide
Hiring a marine biologist guide for a snorkeling session dramatically increases what you see and understand. Several centers in Naama Bay offer guided interpretation snorkeling for individuals and families.
- 5
Snorkel Safari Boats
Organized snorkel-only boat trips to the best shallow sites around Ras Mohammed give non-divers access to the same spectacular marine life as scuba divers, with trained surface guides throughout.
- 6
Responsible Snorkeling
The reefs of Sharm are under pressure from heavy use. Keeping fins off the coral, never touching marine life and using reef-safe sunscreen are essential practices for every visitor in the water.