Sharks Bay House Reef

The Sharks Bay house reef lies just off the beach in the Sharks Bay area of Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai, Egypt, to the north of Naama Bay. Hotel jetties lead from the shore across a shallow reef flat to the reef edge, which makes it one of the easiest places in the resort for snorkellers to see coral without a boat. Despite the bay's name, sharks are rarely seen; the draw is the coral gardens, colourful reef fish, anemones with clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish and angelfish, and occasional green turtles and rays. The reef begins in knee-deep water and slopes to a drop-off, and the water is typically clear, with calm conditions in the morning. Access is free from public jetties, while hotel jetties may charge about EGP 150-400 for non-guests, usually including towels and a sunbed. A visit usually lasts two to three hours, enough to snorkel along the reef edge, rest on the beach and return. The best light for underwater visibility is in the morning, when the wind is lighter and the sun is behind the swimmer. Crowds are lighter early and build up around midday when hotel guests and tour groups use the jetties. Visitors should enter via the jetty ladders or marked sandy channels, wear reef shoes and a rash vest, and avoid standing on the coral, which is fragile and protected. Sunscreen should be reef-safe and applied before entering the water. Rental of masks and fins is available at some jetties. A taxi from Naama Bay costs about EGP 100-200. The reef flat has strong sun and little shade, so bring water, a hat and a towel. Currents are usually mild but can strengthen near the edge, so stay close to the jetty if unsure.