Advertisement

Kayaking / Paddle Sports in Sharm El Sheikh

Kayaking and paddle sports in Sharm El Sheikh let you cut through the water and explore the coastline at your own pace. It’s amazing how different the view is when you’re actually on the water,quiet and up close to those coral edges, far from the busy beaches. Most folks head out around Ras Mohammed or Nabq Bay, where the water is calmer and the sea life easier to spot. I usually recommend renting from one of the smaller outfitters near Naama Bay rather than the big resorts because you get more personal gear checks,and the kayaks are often better maintained.

Early mornings are my favorite time. The water is glassy, and you can sometimes spot turtles lazily swimming underneath. Just watch out for the occasional wind that can pick up in the afternoon, turning paddling into a workout. And if you try paddleboarding, don’t worry if you tip over,it happens even to people who’ve done it before. Oh, and a tip: bring some reef-safe sunscreen and a hat because the sun reflect off the water will get you quicker than you think. With these simple things, you’ll have a relaxed, peaceful time on the water in Sharm El Sheikh.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

Local tips for paddling

If you want to make the most of your kayaking or paddleboarding time, aim for the early morning hours in Nabq Bay. The water is usually calmest then, and you’ll catch some incredible quiet moments with just the sea and sky around you. Also, don’t sleep on renting from small independent shops along the coast near Naama Bay instead of the bigger resorts. They tend to know the less crowded spots and offer better, more personal advice. And here’s a trick I learned: keep an eye on the wind direction on your phone’s weather app. Midday winds can pick up suddenly, making the return trip a bit tougher than expected. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions I often get asked about kayaking and paddle sports in Sharm El Sheikh.

I wouldn’t recommend going alone, especially if it’s your first time. The Red Sea can be unpredictable, and local guides know the best spots and currents. Plus, it’s way more fun to have someone with you.

Early morning’s best, without a doubt. The water’s flat and glassy before any wind picks up. Plus, it’s cooler and quieter, which means better chances of spotting fish or even turtles swimming beneath you.

Absolutely. Around Ras Mohammed, you can kayak to isolated coral reefs, hop out, and snorkel right there. Just keep an eye on the tides because sometimes currents get a bit strong near the reefs.

You can definitely rent everything on the spot. Most equipment rentals are affordable and come from friendly local vendors near Naama Bay or Nabq. Bring your own if you want, but it’s not necessary.

Kids can, but I’d say they should be comfortable swimmers. Lots of places provide life jackets and beginner-friendly gear, and calm spots like Nabq Bay work well for younger paddlers.

Water, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof bag for your phone or keys. Oh, and some cash for tipping your guide or for a quick drink after your session.

Explore Things To Do Categories

City Tours (1506 places) If you think Sharm El Sheikh is just about its beaches and diving spots, think again. Touring the city itself unveils a whole other side. Walk through Old Market, or as locals call it, the Souk, where the air is thick with spices, the calls of vendors selling everything from babouches to fresh falafel fills the narrow… Explore
Attractions & Tickets (1346 places) If you’re planning your time in Sharm El Sheikh, sorting out tickets and picking attractions smartly can save a lot of stress. Sharm’s not just about the beach, though the coral reefs by Ras Mohammed and Tiran Island often steal the show. But there’s also the Old Market where haggling is an art,grab a ticket or two to… Explore
Family-Friendly Experiences (1198 places) Sharm El Sheikh isn’t just about nightlife and diving,it’s got plenty to keep the kids happy too. If you’re traveling with family, you’ll want to check out places like Ras Mohammed National Park. It’s not just a snorkeling or hiking spot; kids get a kick out of spotting colorful fish and starfish in the shallow waters… Explore
Day Trips (934 places) If you’re staying in Sharm El Sheikh and want a change of scenery without spending the whole day traveling, there are plenty of options close by that locals love. Ever heard of Ras Mohammed National Park? It’s just a short drive and feels like a completely different world , great for a hike and snorkeling right off… Explore
Multi-day Excursions (906 places) If you’re spending more than a day or two in Sharm El Sheikh, taking a multi-day excursion is the best way to see more of the Red Sea’s treasures and beyond. I’ve lived here for years, and honestly, these trips give you a glimpse into the quieter, less touristy parts of Sinai that you won’t see just hanging around… Explore
Nature & Wildlife Tours (906 places) Sharm El Sheikh isn’t just about beaches and nightlife. If you’re craving a break from the crowds, the nature and wildlife tours here really hit the spot. You can duck into the Mangrove Forest, one of Egypt’s few freshwater havens, where flamingos and lizards chill among the roots. The best part? It feels like… Explore
Cultural Tours (808) • Heritage Sites (802) • Historical Landmarks (776) • Tastings (760) •

Top Things To Do in Sharm El Sheikh

See All →

Top Things To Do in Sharm El Sheikh

Click to See All

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.4M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide Saudi ArabiaMy Guide BodrumMy Guide Greek Islands

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again