Sharks Bay Beach and House Reef

Sharks Bay Beach and House Reef lies on the coast north of Naama Bay in Sharm El Sheikh, in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate, roughly 7-8 km from the central resort strip. The area is known mainly for snorkelling and diving rather than for a wide stretch of sand. The beach is a sandy shoreline with sections of coral rubble, and jetties extend from the shore over the shallows to the edge of a house reef, where the seabed drops into deeper, clear blue water. Visibility is typically good, and the water stays warm, roughly 22-28 C through the year. The reef is a colourful fringing reef with hard and soft corals and the reef fish typical of the northern Red Sea, which is why snorkelling is described as the draw here. Despite the name, shark encounters are not something visitors should expect or rely on, and sightings of any kind vary. The bay is calm in most conditions, but wind can raise chop in the afternoon, and visitors should follow the flags and instructions at the hotels or dive centre. Amenities include sunbeds, jetty access and a dive centre where equipment can be rented and guided dives or courses arranged. Food and drinks are normally available at the hotel or resort venues next to the beach, and restrooms and showers are provided by the facilities in use. The atmosphere is relaxed and focused on the water; it draws snorkellers, divers and sunbathers more than partygoers. Access is by road from the main Sharm El Sheikh coastal route. A taxi from Naama Bay takes about 15-20 minutes and costs around EGP 100-200 (about $2-4). Entry arrangements depend on the property managing the beach, and some stretches are tied to hotels, so day-use access and fees should be confirmed on arrival. Entering the water from the jetty rather than across the coral shallows helps protect the reef and avoids sea urchins. The reef is best enjoyed in calm conditions and during the middle of the day when sunlight shows off the colours. Year-round swimming is possible, with spring and autumn offering the most comfortable air temperatures.