Sharm El Sheikh vs Hurghada: Which Red Sea Resort Is Right for You?

Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are Egypt’s two great Red Sea resorts, and both deliver sunshine, coral reefs and excellent value. But they have different personalities. Here’s how to choose the right one for your trip.

Location & getting there

Sharm El Sheikh sits on the Sinai Peninsula, close to Ras Mohammed, the Straits of Tiran and Dahab. Hurghada lies on the mainland west coast, which makes overland day trips to Luxor and the Nile shorter.

Diving & snorkeling

Both are superb. Sharm edges ahead for dramatic wall diving (Ras Mohammed, Tiran), while Hurghada is famous for easy, shallow reefs and island trips to Giftun and Orange Bay — brilliant for families and beginners.

Day trips

From Sharm, the standout is a day trip to Cairo and the Pyramids, plus St Catherine’s Monastery and Dahab. From Hurghada, Luxor’s temples and the Valley of the Kings are the highlight.

Atmosphere

Sharm feels a little more polished and resort-focused; Hurghada is larger, livelier and often a touch cheaper. Both have great hotels and family-friendly beaches.

Which should you choose?

• Choose Sharm for world-class diving, desert scenery and a Cairo day trip.
• Choose Hurghada for gentle reefs, island beaches, Luxor access and lively value.

FAQ

Which is better for families? Both — Hurghada’s calm island beaches and Sharm’s sheltered reefs are equally kid-friendly.

Can I visit both? Yes, but they’re a long drive apart; most travellers pick one base per trip.

Planning a Sharm-based holiday? Explore our full range of excursions and day trips.