Where To Stay In Sharm El Sheikh

Ah, Sharm El Sheikh! Just the name conjures up images of dazzling blue seas and endless sunshine. But then comes the big question, the one that can send shivers down your spine more than a rogue wave: where on earth do you actually stay in this Egyptian paradise?

Now, I know what you’re thinking. You’ve probably scrolled through endless hotel websites. You’ve seen pictures of infinity pools that defy gravity and dined on imaginary gourmet meals. You’re drowning in brochures featuring impossibly tanned people doing... well, doing something very relaxing.

And then there’s the real Sharm. The Sharm that isn't always plastered all over those glossy pages. This is where my slightly bizarre, probably unpopular opinion comes in.

Forget the Fancy All-Inclusives (Mostly)

Hear me out! I know, I know. The idea of an all-inclusive resort in Sharm is practically tradition. You get your wristband, you get your buffet, you get your unlimited (and often questionable) cocktails. It’s easy. It’s convenient. It’s… a bit predictable, wouldn't you say?

Don’t get me wrong, there are some truly magnificent all-inclusive gems. Places like the Rixos Premium Seagate or the Jaz Aquamarine Resort offer a level of luxury and entertainment that can sweep you off your feet. If your sole mission is to be fed and watered constantly while strategically avoiding the outside world, then by all means, dive in! Just be prepared for the sheer volume of people all aiming for the same sun lounger.

But what if you crave a little… spice? What if you want to wander, to discover, to have your taste buds do a happy dance instead of a predictable waltz?

Embrace the Local Vibe (Sort Of)

This is where my controversial hot take truly kicks in. Instead of locking yourself into a resort bubble, consider a slightly different approach. Think about staying in or near areas that offer a bit more… life.

Have you considered Naama Bay? Now, Naama Bay has a reputation. Some call it the beating heart of Sharm. Others might say it’s a bit… energetic. And they wouldn't be wrong. It’s got lights, it’s got sounds, it’s got a seemingly endless parade of souvenir shops and restaurants. But for someone like me, who enjoys a bit of people-watching and the buzz of a place that feels alive, it’s fantastic!

You can find some lovely hotels right on the promenade. Places that might not have their own private beach the size of a small country, but they have access. And that access often means you’re right there, steps away from the action. Think of it as having a comfy base camp for your adventures. You can still have a pool, you can still have a decent breakfast, but then you can step out and explore.

My personal favourite sneaky tactic? Look for hotels just off the main drag in Naama Bay. You get the benefit of being close to the buzz without being right in the thick of the loudest bits. It’s like having a secret VIP entrance to the party.

The Boutique Charm (Yes, It Exists!)

Now, I’m not saying Sharm is brimming with tiny, independent boutique hotels like you might find in a European city. That’s not quite the vibe here. But there are smaller, more intimate options that offer a charming alternative to the mega-resorts.

These places often have a more personal touch. The staff might actually remember your name (a novel concept, I know!). The pools might be a little smaller, but they’re often less crowded. And the food? Sometimes, in these less enormous establishments, you find hidden culinary gems that the giant buffets just can’t compete with.

Think about looking at places in areas like Hadaba. It’s a little more spread out, a little quieter than Naama Bay, but still offers easy access to beaches and some lovely local restaurants. You might stumble upon a hotel with a view that will make your jaw drop, and an atmosphere that feels less like a military operation and more like a welcoming hug.

One of my secret guilty pleasures is finding a hotel that has a really good, local restaurant attached to it. Not the buffet restaurant, but the one where you can actually order à la carte and experience some authentic Egyptian flavours. These are the kinds of places that make you feel like you’ve discovered something, rather than just been deposited.

The Unpopular Conclusion

So, my highly debatable advice? While the allure of the mega all-inclusive is undeniable, don't be afraid to venture slightly off the beaten path. Look for places that offer a bit of local flavour, a bit of a buzz, or a more intimate charm.

Because sometimes, the best part of Sharm El Sheikh isn't just the sun and the sea, but the little discoveries you make along the way. And a good place to rest your head after a day of exploring can make all the difference. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure… and maybe a slightly wider selection of swimwear for those unexpected poolside cocktail moments.