Sharm el-Sheikh with Kids: Family Activities

October 31, 2026

Families come to Sharm el-Sheikh for warm water and reefs, and the best days are built around the sea with a few dry options for the hottest hours. As of October 2026 the UK FCDO describes the southern Sinai Red Sea resorts as generally low risk; its Egypt advice is worth reading before you book flights.

Looking at the reef without swimming

Two options keep everyone dry. Glass-bottom boats sail from the Naama Bay jetty by Al-Bostan beach. The SeaScope semi-submarine sails from the marina, and the trip takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours. Young children and non-swimmers can see fish and coral from a seat. Sailing times shift through the year, so check them with the operator.

Water parks

Three names come up for water parks. Cleo Park has an ancient Egypt theme and has been running since 2006. Aqua Blue Water Park is in the Hadaba area. A third, simply called Aqua Park, is billed as the largest in Sharm. Opening seasons and day-pass prices change from year to year, so phone ahead or ask your hotel, and find out whether food is included.

An evening at Soho Square

Soho Square, in north Sharm near the airport, is a pedestrian entertainment area with an ice rink, bowling, a children’s zone, an evening dancing-fountain show and the Culturama panoramic cinema show. There is no charge to enter the square, but each attraction sells its own tickets.

First reef snorkel

For children who can already swim, a guided session on a shallow house reef is a good first snorkel. The Near and Far Gardens at Naama Bay are the gentle choice. A guide should stay with the group, and everyone should wear a life vest.

Animals

Camel rides with Bedouin guides are a normal, short activity. The mangroves of Nabq Protected Area, about 35 km north, make a quiet nature outing by 4x4. Dolphin shows and photo sessions are on sale in Nabq Bay, yet groups such as HEPCA campaign against dolphinaria in Egypt. Skip them, and let the reef be the wildlife.

Three safety points for children

First, Egyptian law bans touching coral, standing on it and feeding fish, so brief children before every swim. Second, sharks are rare but real, so obey lifeguard flags, avoid dawn and dusk swims, and keep away from boats. Third, tap water is not drinkable, which includes teeth brushing, and mild stomach upsets are a common complaint.

Getting around and paying

Taxis have no meters, so agree the price before you step in. Taxis and small shops want cash in Egyptian pounds, which trade at about 48 to 50 to the US dollar. Tour companies often price in euros or dollars.

See family-friendly boat trips on Viator and GetYourGuide . The Wikivoyage entry sorts attractions by bay.