Nabq Bay Beach

Nabq Bay Beach is a long resort shoreline on the northeastern coast of Sharm El Sheikh, in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate, about 20-25 km north of Naama Bay. The beaches face the Straits of Tiran and are made up of a long, sandy shoreline backed by large resort complexes. The water is clear, warm and turquoise, around 22-28 C through the year, and a fringing reef lies offshore at many properties, so snorkelling is possible from the beach or from jetties. The open orientation toward the Straits means the wind can be stronger than in the sheltered bays near town, which suits windsurfing and kitesurfing but can make swimming choppy on breezy afternoons. Mornings are typically calmer. The atmosphere is that of a self-contained resort area: the hotels provide sunbeds, umbrellas, restrooms, showers, restaurants, bars and activity programmes, and the surroundings are quiet compared with Naama Bay. Families and couples make up most visitors. Non-guests may be able to purchase day-use passes at some resorts, but arrangements vary, so they should be confirmed beforehand. Lifeguard hours differ by property. Nearby is Nabq Protected Area, known for its mangroves and desert landscape, which can be visited on organised trips from the resorts and offers a different experience from the beach. Access is by road along the northern coastal route. A taxi from Naama Bay takes about 25-35 minutes and costs around EGP 300-500 (about $6-10), and visitors should plan a return ride because public transport is limited. Resorts provide parking for guests. As elsewhere on this coast, reef shoes are advised because of coral and sea urchins at the reef edge. Shade is limited on the open sand. Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable air temperatures, while summer is hot but suited to time in the water.