With an astonishing 330+ sunny days per year and only 1mm of annual rainfall, Sharm El-Sheikh boasts one of the world’s most reliable climates for vacation planning. This Egyptian Red Sea paradise combines desert warmth with refreshing sea breezes to create near-perfect weather conditions that attract visitors year-round. But knowing exactly when to visit can transform a good vacation into an unforgettable one. Let’s explore the ideal times to experience this stunning coastal gem based on its unique seasonal patterns.
Winter Season in Sharm El-Sheikh (December-February)
Winter Weather Overview
Winter in Sharm El-Sheikh offers a delightful escape from cold European winters with mild, comfortable temperatures. Daytime highs range from 22-26°C (72-79°F), while evenings cool to a pleasant 14-17°C (57-63°F). The sea maintains a comfortable 23-25°C (73-77°F), making swimming enjoyable even in winter months. With virtually zero rainfall and 7-9 hours of sunshine daily, winter provides reliable weather for all outdoor activities.
What to Wear in Winter
- Light layers for daytime warmth
- Light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings
- Swimming gear (sea remains warm enough for swimming)
- Sun protection (UV index remains moderate to high)
- Comfortable walking shoes for excursions
Best Winter Activities
- World-class diving with excellent visibility at Ras Mohammed National Park
- Desert safaris and Bedouin experiences (ideal temperatures for desert exploration)
- Cultural excursions to St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai
- Boat trips with comfortable temperatures and minimal winds
- Shopping at Sharm Old Market with pleasant evening temperatures
Winter Weather Pros
- Perfect temperatures for all outdoor activities
- Excellent diving visibility (30m+)
- Comfortable conditions for desert excursions
- Escape from European winter
- Lower humidity levels (45-55%)
Winter Weather Cons
- Slightly cooler evenings requiring light layers
- Shorter daylight hours (7-9 hours of sunshine)
- Peak tourist season (December-January) with higher prices
- Occasional brief cool winds from the north
- Popular sites can be crowded during holiday periods
Winter Summary
Winter offers ideal conditions for visitors seeking comfortable temperatures and excellent diving conditions. With mild days, cool evenings, and warm sea temperatures, it’s perfect for a balanced vacation of beach time and exploration. December and January see higher tourist numbers due to holiday periods, while February offers similar weather with fewer crowds.
Spring Season in Sharm El-Sheikh (March-May)
Spring Weather Overview
Spring brings warming temperatures to Sharm El-Sheikh, creating perfect conditions for all activities. Daytime temperatures progress from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in March to a warmer 35°C (95°F) by May. Evenings remain pleasant at 19-25°C (66-77°F). The sea warms to 24-26°C (75-79°F), ideal for extended water activities. With 10-12 hours of sunshine daily and zero rainfall, spring offers reliable weather for vacation planning.
What to Wear in Spring
- Light, breathable clothing for increasingly warm days
- Swimming gear for perfect sea temperatures
- High-quality sun protection (UV index becomes very high)
- Light evening wear (temperatures remain warm after sunset)
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Best Spring Activities
- Premium diving and snorkeling with excellent visibility
- Boat excursions to Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed
- Beach relaxation with perfect temperatures
- Desert safaris (early morning or late afternoon recommended by May)
- Water sports including parasailing and jet skiing
Spring Weather Pros
- Perfect balance of warmth without extreme heat
- Ideal sea temperatures for all water activities
- Excellent underwater visibility for diving
- Longer daylight hours (10-12 hours of sunshine)
- Shoulder season pricing (especially March and early May)
Spring Weather Cons
- Increasing heat by late May (can reach 35°C/95°F)
- Higher UV index requiring extra sun protection
- Easter period can bring crowds and higher prices
- Occasional stronger winds in March
- Desert excursions become hot by late spring
Spring Summary
Spring represents one of the best times to visit Sharm El-Sheikh, offering warm but not extreme temperatures, perfect sea conditions, and excellent visibility for diving. March and April provide ideal conditions for all activities, while May begins the transition to summer heat. This season offers the perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than winter high season.
Summer Season in Sharm El-Sheikh (June-August)
Summer Weather Overview
Summer brings intense heat to Sharm El-Sheikh with daytime temperatures ranging from 37-42°C (99-108°F) and evening temperatures remaining warm at 27-31°C (81-88°F). The sea reaches its warmest at 28-30°C (82-86°F), feeling like bath water. With 11-13 hours of sunshine daily and zero rainfall, summer guarantees hot, dry conditions. Low humidity (35-40%) makes the heat more bearable than humid destinations.
What to Wear in Summer
- Ultra-lightweight, breathable clothing
- Multiple swimwear options for frequent swimming
- High SPF sun protection (UV index extremely high)
- Lightweight cover-ups for sun protection
- Breathable footwear (sand can become extremely hot)
Best Summer Activities
- Resort pool time (most have cooled pools)
- Early morning or sunset beach activities
- Air-conditioned spa treatments
- Boat trips with sea breezes
- Snorkeling in the warm sea waters
- Indoor shopping at Soho Square and malls
Summer Weather Pros
- Guaranteed sunshine every day
- Warmest sea temperatures of the year
- Lower hotel rates and better deals
- Less crowded attractions and dive sites
- Warm evenings perfect for outdoor dining
Summer Weather Cons
- Extreme daytime heat (can exceed 40°C/104°F)
- Outdoor activities limited to early morning/evening
- Desert excursions uncomfortable without proper planning
- Very high UV index requiring constant sun protection
- Air conditioning dependency for comfort
Summer Summary
Summer in Sharm El-Sheikh is for heat lovers and budget travelers. The intense temperatures limit outdoor activities to early morning or evening, but offer the warmest sea temperatures and lowest hotel rates of the year. Resort facilities with pools, air conditioning, and shade make summer manageable and enjoyable for those who plan accordingly. July and August see European holiday crowds, while June offers similar heat with fewer tourists.
Autumn Season in Sharm El-Sheikh (September-November)
Autumn Weather Overview
Autumn brings a gradual cooling from summer heat, creating excellent conditions for all activities. September remains hot with daytime temperatures around 36°C (97°F), cooling to a comfortable 27°C (81°F) by November. Evening temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) in September to 19°C (66°F) by November. The sea retains its warmth at 26-29°C (79-84°F). With 9-11 hours of sunshine daily and zero rainfall, autumn offers reliable, comfortable weather.
What to Wear in Autumn
- Light, breathable clothing (especially in September)
- Light layers for November evenings
- Swimming gear for warm sea temperatures
- Sun protection (UV index remains high)
- Light evening wear for outdoor dining
Best Autumn Activities
- World-class diving with excellent visibility returning
- Snorkeling and water sports in warm seas
- Desert safaris becoming comfortable again
- Boat excursions with perfect temperatures
- Shopping and cultural experiences
- Hiking in the Sinai mountains (November)
Autumn Weather Pros
- Perfect transition from summer heat to comfortable warmth
- Excellent diving conditions with visibility improving
- Warm sea temperatures ideal for water activities
- Comfortable temperatures for all excursions by October
- Shoulder season pricing with fewer crowds (especially November)
Autumn Weather Cons
- September still very hot during daytime
- October half-term can bring family crowds
- Slight cooling of sea temperatures by November
- Shorter daylight hours than summer
- Occasional brief rain shower possible in late November (rare)
Autumn Summary
Autumn offers some of the best conditions for visiting Sharm El-Sheikh, particularly October and November. The heat becomes more manageable while the sea retains its warmth from summer. This season provides the perfect balance for all activities from diving to desert exploration. November is especially recommended for value seekers, offering excellent weather with lower tourist numbers and better prices.
Best Time to Visit Sharm El-Sheikh
Recommended Months to Visit
The absolute best months to visit Sharm El-Sheikh are October and April, offering the perfect balance of warm temperatures (28-32°C/82-90°F), comfortable evenings, excellent sea conditions (26-27°C/79-81°F), and optimal diving visibility. These months avoid both the extreme summer heat and the winter high season crowds.
Excellent alternative months include March, May, and November. March offers warming spring conditions, May provides summer warmth before the extreme heat, and November delivers perfect temperatures with fewer tourists. These months offer excellent value with weather nearly as perfect as the peak months.
December through February and September offer good conditions with some trade-offs. Winter months (December-February) provide mild temperatures perfect for activities but can be cooler for swimming and bring peak season crowds. September remains quite hot but offers excellent water temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.
The most challenging months are June through August when extreme heat (37-42°C/99-108°F) limits outdoor activities to early morning or evening. However, these months offer the warmest sea temperatures, lowest prices, and resort facilities designed to keep guests comfortable despite the heat. Best for heat-lovers and budget travelers.
Months to Avoid
There are no months to completely avoid in Sharm El-Sheikh due to its reliable climate. However, travelers sensitive to heat should avoid July and August when temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). Those seeking value should avoid peak holiday periods in late December and January when prices increase significantly.
Weather-Perfect Activities in Sharm El-Sheikh
Diving & Snorkeling
Best Weather Months: March-May, October-November
Sharm El-Sheikh offers world-class diving with over 250 coral reefs and 1,000 species of fish. The best visibility (30-40m) occurs during spring and autumn when water temperatures are comfortable (24-27°C/75-81°F) and currents are minimal. Top sites include Ras Mohammed National Park, Tiran Island, and the SS Thistlegorm wreck.
Desert Excursions
Best Weather Months: October-April
The Sinai desert offers spectacular landscapes best explored during the cooler months. Winter and spring provide comfortable temperatures (20-30°C/68-86°F) for quad biking, camel rides, and Bedouin experiences. Mount Sinai hikes are particularly magical at sunrise during these months when temperatures are ideal for climbing.
Beach Relaxation
Best Weather Months: April-May, September-October
Sharm’s beaches are at their most comfortable during spring and autumn when temperatures hover around 28-32°C (82-90°F). The sea is perfectly warm (25-28°C/77-82°F) while the heat remains manageable. These months offer the ideal balance for sunbathing without the extreme summer temperatures that can make midday beach time uncomfortable.
Boat Excursions
Best Weather Months: March-May, September-November
Boat trips to Tiran Island, Ras Mohammed, and along the coastline are most enjoyable during spring and autumn. These seasons offer calm seas, gentle breezes, and perfect temperatures for combining sailing with swimming stops. The clarity of the water during these months makes for spectacular views both above and below the surface.
Water Sports
Best Weather Months: April-June, September-October
Water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing benefit from the consistent winds and warm waters of late spring and early autumn. These months offer the perfect combination of warm sea temperatures (25-28°C/77-82°F), reliable breezes, and comfortable air temperatures that make activities energizing rather than exhausting.
Resort Luxury
Best Weather Months: Year-round (varies by preference)
Sharm’s luxury resorts are designed for year-round comfort. Winter months (December-February) offer the best value for luxury experiences with perfect temperatures for enjoying all facilities. Summer months (June-August) provide the lowest luxury rates but require appreciation for heat and reliance on pools and air conditioning for comfort.
Weather-Based Packing Guide for Sharm El-Sheikh
Winter Packing (December-February)
- Daytime: Light cotton clothing, t-shirts, shorts, sundresses
- Evening: Light sweater or jacket, long pants, light scarf
- Beach: Multiple swimwear options, cover-ups, beach sandals
- Protection: SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, water shoes
- Diving: 3mm wetsuit recommended for longer dives
Spring Packing (March-May)
- Daytime: Lightweight, breathable clothing, shorts, t-shirts
- Evening: Light layers for March, minimal layers by May
- Beach: Multiple swimwear options, lightweight cover-ups
- Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses
- Footwear: Breathable sandals, water shoes, walking shoes
- Accessories: Insulated water bottle, cooling towel (for May)
Summer Packing (June-August)
- Daytime: Ultra-lightweight, loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothing
- Evening: Light cotton clothing (evenings remain very warm)
- Beach: Multiple swimwear options, lightweight cover-ups
- Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen (reapply frequently), UPF clothing
- Cooling: Portable fan, cooling towel, wide-brimmed hat
- Hydration: Insulated water bottle, electrolyte supplements
Autumn Packing (September-November)
- Daytime: Lightweight clothing (similar to summer for September)
- Evening: Light layers for October/November evenings
- Beach: Multiple swimwear options, cover-ups
- Protection: SPF 30-50 sunscreen, quality sunglasses
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals, walking shoes for excursions
- Accessories: Day bag for excursions, underwater camera
Year-Round Essentials
Health & Protection
- High-quality sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- After-sun cooling gel or aloe vera
- Insect repellent (for evening desert excursions)
- Basic first aid supplies
- Prescription medications
- Rehydration salts/electrolytes
Practical Items
- Underwater camera or waterproof phone case
- Power adapter (Egypt uses Type C and F plugs)
- Reusable water bottle
- Day bag for excursions
- Snorkeling gear (though rentals are available)
- Cash in small denominations for tipping
Cultural Considerations
While Sharm El-Sheikh is a tourist resort with relaxed dress codes, modest clothing is appreciated when visiting local markets or venturing outside resort areas. Women should pack a light scarf for visiting religious sites or more conservative areas. Respect local customs during Ramadan if traveling during this period.
Sharm El-Sheikh Weather Compared to Other Destinations
| Destination | Annual Sunshine | Annual Rainfall | Winter Temp | Summer Temp | Sea Temp Range | Best Months |
| Sharm El-Sheikh | 330+ days | 1mm | 22-26°C (72-79°F) | 37-42°C (99-108°F) | 23-30°C (73-86°F) | Oct-Apr |
| Hurghada, Egypt | 320+ days | 2mm | 20-25°C (68-77°F) | 35-40°C (95-104°F) | 22-29°C (72-84°F) | Oct-Apr |
| Cancun, Mexico | 240 days | 1200mm | 23-28°C (73-82°F) | 28-33°C (82-91°F) | 26-29°C (79-84°F) | Dec-Apr |
| Maldives | 250 days | 2100mm | 27-30°C (81-86°F) | 26-31°C (79-88°F) | 27-29°C (81-84°F) | Nov-Apr |
| Dubai, UAE | 300+ days | 96mm | 20-26°C (68-79°F) | 33-42°C (91-108°F) | 22-31°C (72-88°F) | Oct-Apr |
| Cyprus | 250 days | 400mm | 8-17°C (46-63°F) | 22-33°C (72-91°F) | 18-27°C (64-81°F) | Apr-Oct |
Sharm El-Sheikh’s Weather Advantages
Unmatched Sunshine
With over 330 sunny days annually, Sharm El-Sheikh offers more reliable sunshine than almost any other major beach destination worldwide. This consistency makes it an ideal year-round destination, especially for winter sun seekers from Europe.
Minimal Rainfall
At just 1mm of annual rainfall, Sharm El-Sheikh has virtually zero chance of rain disrupting vacation plans. This is significantly less than other popular destinations like the Maldives (2100mm) or Cancun (1200mm) where rainy seasons can impact travel experiences.
Perfect Winter Escape
Winter temperatures of 22-26°C (72-79°F) make Sharm El-Sheikh ideal for escaping European winters. Unlike Mediterranean destinations that cool significantly in winter, Sharm maintains comfortable swimming and outdoor activity conditions year-round.
Value Proposition
Compared to destinations with similar weather profiles like the Maldives or Caribbean resorts, Sharm El-Sheikh offers comparable climate conditions at significantly lower price points, particularly for luxury accommodations and diving experiences.
Sharm El-Sheikh Weather Zones
Microclimate Variations in Sharm El-Sheikh
While Sharm El-Sheikh generally experiences consistent weather throughout the region, subtle microclimate variations exist between different areas:
Naama Bay
The central tourist hub enjoys natural protection from the surrounding mountains, resulting in slightly calmer winds than other areas. Summer temperatures can feel 1-2°C warmer due to the sheltered position and urban heat effect from resorts and buildings.
Shark’s Bay & Nabq Bay
The northern areas experience slightly stronger breezes, making summer heat more tolerable. Winter evenings can feel 1-2°C cooler than Naama Bay. These areas benefit from consistent sea breezes that provide natural cooling during hot summer months.
Ras Um Sid & Hadaba
The southern areas sit at slightly higher elevations, resulting in marginally cooler temperatures (1-2°C) and stronger winds than Naama Bay. The elevated position provides excellent sunset views but can experience more noticeable evening cooling in winter months.
Ras Mohammed National Park
Located at the peninsula’s tip, this area experiences the most pronounced sea breezes and can be 2-3°C cooler than central Sharm El-Sheikh. The surrounding water on three sides creates a more moderate temperature profile with less extreme heat in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sharm El-Sheikh Weather
When is the best time to visit Sharm El-Sheikh for diving?
The best months for diving in Sharm El-Sheikh are April-May and October-November. These periods offer optimal conditions with water temperatures of 24-27°C (75-81°F), excellent visibility (30-40m), and comfortable air temperatures. March and June are also good options with slightly less ideal conditions. Summer diving (July-August) is possible but can be uncomfortably hot on boats, while winter diving (December-February) may require a 3mm wetsuit for longer dives.
Is Sharm El-Sheikh too hot in summer?
Summer in Sharm El-Sheikh (June-August) is indeed very hot, with daytime temperatures regularly reaching 37-42°C (99-108°F). However, the heat is dry rather than humid, making it more tolerable than tropical destinations with similar temperatures. Resort facilities are well-equipped for summer heat with air conditioning, shaded areas, and cooled pools. Many visitors still enjoy summer visits by adapting their schedules—enjoying early morning and evening activities while relaxing in cooled environments during peak afternoon heat.
Does it ever rain in Sharm El-Sheikh?
Rain in Sharm El-Sheikh is extremely rare, with the city receiving only about 1mm of annual rainfall. When rain does occur, it’s typically a brief shower lasting less than 30 minutes, most likely between December and February. Many years pass with no measurable rainfall at all. This makes Sharm El-Sheikh one of the world’s most reliable destinations for guaranteed sunshine, with over 330 sunny days annually.
What is the water temperature like in Sharm El-Sheikh?
The Red Sea at Sharm El-Sheikh maintains comfortable swimming temperatures year-round. Winter (December-February) sees sea temperatures of 23-25°C (73-77°F), spring (March-May) ranges from 24-26°C (75-79°F), summer (June-August) reaches 28-30°C (82-86°F), and autumn (September-November) gradually cools from 29°C to 26°C (84°F to 79°F). Even in the coolest month (February), the water remains comfortable for swimming and significantly warmer than Mediterranean destinations during the same period.
When is the cheapest time to visit Sharm El-Sheikh?
The most budget-friendly months to visit Sharm El-Sheikh are June, July (excluding school holiday periods), and November. Summer months offer the lowest accommodation rates due to the intense heat, while November provides excellent weather conditions before the winter high season begins. May and September can also offer good value as shoulder season months. The most expensive periods are the winter holidays (late December-early January), Easter week, and European school holiday periods in July-August.
Is Sharm El-Sheikh windy?
Sharm El-Sheikh experiences moderate winds rather than being particularly windy. Average wind speeds range from 8-18 km/h (5-11 mph), providing a pleasant cooling breeze, especially welcome during summer months. The bay location offers natural protection from stronger winds. March can occasionally see stronger winds, but these rarely disrupt activities. The consistent gentle breezes actually enhance comfort by moderating the heat and are beneficial for certain water sports like windsurfing and sailing.
What should I pack for a winter trip to Sharm El-Sheikh?
For a winter trip (December-February), pack primarily summer clothing for daytime (t-shirts, shorts, sundresses) along with a light sweater or jacket for evenings when temperatures can drop to 14-17°C (57-63°F). Include multiple swimwear options as the sea remains warm enough for swimming (23-25°C/73-77°F). Sun protection remains essential with SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes for excursions and sandals for beach days are recommended. A light scarf can be useful for desert evenings or visits to local markets.
Planning Your Weather-Perfect Sharm El-Sheikh Getaway
Sharm El-Sheikh stands as one of the world’s most weather-reliable destinations, offering sunshine-filled days and comfortable conditions throughout the year. For the absolute perfect balance of comfortable temperatures, excellent sea conditions, and optimal diving visibility, plan your visit during the golden months of October-November or March-April. These periods deliver the magical combination of warm days, pleasant evenings, and crystal-clear waters that showcase the Red Sea’s underwater wonders at their finest.
Whether you’re seeking a winter sun escape, a spring diving adventure, or even embracing the heat of summer for budget-friendly luxury, Sharm El-Sheikh’s predictable climate ensures you can plan with confidence. Pack your sunscreen, prepare your underwater camera, and get ready to experience the perfect weather conditions that have made this Egyptian paradise a favorite among travelers seeking reliable sunshine and unforgettable Red Sea adventures.
The above is subject to change.
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