Planning a trip to Sharm El Sheikh? Picking the right time can make all the difference if you want to soak up the sun, swim in calm seas, and explore the desert without roasting. Honestly, the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh for comfortable weather is between March and May or from September to November.
During these months, temperatures stay warm but not unbearable, and the Red Sea looks inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
You’ll get long sunny days almost any time of year, but summer can get brutally hot and make outdoor activities less fun. Winter feels mild, with cooler evenings that are actually great for desert trips or climbing Mount Sinai.
If you know how the seasons shift, you can plan your trip to match your style. Maybe you want to dive all day, or just chill on the beach, or wander desert trails—timing matters.
Understanding the seasonal patterns helps you pick months with the best mix of sun, warmth, and comfort.
Overview of Sharm El Sheikh’s Weather Patterns
Sharm El Sheikh sits in Egypt’s dry desert climate. Rain barely shows up, sunshine is intense, and warm weather sticks around all year.
Temperatures swing between mild winters and scorching summers. The Red Sea helps keep coastal weather from getting too wild, so you can enjoy outdoor stuff any season.
Desert Climate and Year-Round Sunshine
You’ll notice Sharm El Sheikh is pure desert. Rain barely happens, and clear skies stretch on for months.
Sunshine averages a whopping 9 to 11 hours per day, so yeah, it’s one of the sunniest places around.
Humidity stays pretty low, making the heat more bearable compared to other beach resorts. Even in peak summer, the dry air takes the edge off.
This endless sunshine means you can swim, dive, and hit the beach almost every day. You really don’t have to worry about rain ruining your plans or clouds hanging around.
The steady weather is a big reason why people flock to the Red Sea coast.
Temperature Ranges and Rainfall
Sharm El Sheikh stays warm year-round, but you’ll want to pay attention to how much it changes by season. Winter, like January, averages about 21°C during the day and 14°C at night.
In July and August, summer peaks hit 36–37°C in the daytime and nights stay warm at 28–29°C.
Rainfall? It’s almost laughable. Most months only get 0–2 mm of rain, and sometimes it doesn’t rain at all for a year. If it does rain, it’s just a quick shower and doesn’t mess up your day.
Here’s a quick look:
| Season | Average Day Temp | Average Night Temp | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 21–22°C | 14–17°C | 1–5 mm |
| Spring (Mar–May) | 24–31°C | 17–24°C | 0–2 mm |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 34–37°C | 27–29°C | 0 mm |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 26–33°C | 20–27°C | 0–2 mm |
You can count on dry, sunny days whenever you go.
Influence of the Red Sea
The Red Sea really shapes Sharm El Sheikh’s weather. It keeps coastal temperatures steadier than inland deserts.
Nights near the sea feel milder, and the sea breeze takes the sting out of daytime heat.
Water temperature stays good for swimming all year, from 22°C in winter up to 28°C in summer. So, you can dive or snorkel whenever you want.
The Red Sea also cuts down on big temperature drops at night. While the desert cools off fast after sunset, the coast stays pretty warm. That’s a big plus if you want to hang outside in the evenings.
Best Months to Visit for Ideal Weather
Sharm El Sheikh is mostly warm and dry, but some months just feel better. Spring and fall, especially, bring the best combo of heat, humidity, and calm winds.
Why March and April Stand Out
March and April are kind of perfect. Daytime highs hit 77°F–83°F (25°C–28°C), so you get warmth without feeling cooked. Nights drop to the low 60s°F (16°C–18°C), which is nice for evening walks or eating outside.
Rain basically doesn’t happen, and the Red Sea is already warming up to 72–75°F (22–24°C).
Spring doesn’t get as crowded as winter, and you avoid the summer rush too. You can snorkel, explore the desert, or wander the town without bumping into tons of people.
If you want steady sun, low humidity, and gentle breezes, March and April are some of the best times for Sharm El Sheikh.
October and November Weather Advantages
October and November cool off from summer’s heat. Highs run 79°F–86°F (26°C–30°C), and evenings dip to the low 60s°F (16°C–18°C). That’s pretty much perfect for beach days and nights out.
Humidity stays around 45–50%, so it feels way better than sticky summer. Winds are lighter too, so you can enjoy boat rides and diving without getting blown around.
The sea stays warm, usually 77–80°F (25–27°C), so water sports are still on the table. Fewer tourists show up, so you’ll have an easier time booking hotels and tours at good prices.
Honestly, October and November hit a sweet spot between nice weather and smaller crowds.
Comparing Shoulder and Peak Seasons
When you plan, it helps to compare the shoulder months—March, April, October, and November—with the crazy hot summer.
- Shoulder months: Highs of 77–86°F (25–30°C), less humidity, calmer winds, fewer people.
- Summer peak (July–August): Highs near 95–98°F (35–37°C), more humidity, stronger winds, and packed with tourists.
In summer, the heat can make you hide inside at midday, and prices for hotels and flights shoot up. The shoulder months let you get out and do more—desert safaris, diving, whatever—without melting.
If you want mild weather and manageable crowds, spring and fall really are the best times for Sharm El Sheikh.
Monthly Weather Breakdown
Sharm El Sheikh’s always warm, and rain almost never happens. Winters bring mild temperatures and cooler seas, but spring heats up fast. The Red Sea is swimmable nearly all year, though how comfy it feels depends on the season.
Sharm El Sheikh Weather in January
January is the coolest month. Daytime highs hit about 22 °C (72 °F), and nights can drop to 14 °C (57 °F). Sometimes it gets as low as 10 °C (50 °F) at night.
Rain? Almost zero, just about 1 mm. Humidity is moderate, and skies are mostly clear.
You’ll get around 8 hours of sun per day, so there’s plenty of daylight for exploring. The sea temperature sits at 22 °C (72 °F)—cooler than summer, but still swimmable for many. If you’re diving for a long time, you might want a wetsuit.
Winds average 14–15 kph, so evenings can feel a bit chilly by the water.
January works well for sightseeing, desert trips, or just chilling by the coast without sweating buckets.
Sharm El Sheikh Weather in February
February stays mild, with highs around 24 °C (75 °F) and lows near 15 °C (59 °F). Nights can go down to 10–11 °C (50–52 °F), but days feel pleasantly warm.
Rain almost never happens, and the sun keeps shining. You get about 9 hours of sun daily, and humidity is around 40%, so the air feels dry.
The Red Sea cools off to about 21 °C (70 °F). Swimming’s still possible, but it might feel brisk. Winds pick up a bit, averaging 15 kph, which can make nights by the shore feel cooler.
It’s a solid month for outdoor adventures, especially if you want to explore the desert or take in some culture without getting overheated.
Sharm El Sheikh Weather in March
March brings a real shift. Daytime highs reach 27 °C (81 °F), and nights stay around 18 °C (64 °F). Some days even hit the low 30s °C (86–91 °F) by month’s end.
Rain is almost nothing—just 1 mm for the whole month. You’ll see 10 hours of sunshine a day, and humidity drops to about 38%, so the air feels nice and dry.
Sea temperature holds at 21 °C (70 °F), still a bit cool but fine for most swimmers. Winds get stronger, averaging 17–18 kph, and sometimes the Khamsin wind brings dust storms.
March offers longer days and warmer weather, so it’s a nice middle ground between winter and summer.
Sharm El Sheikh Weather in April
April really turns up the heat. Highs climb to about 30 °C (86 °F), and nights are mild at 21 °C (70 °F). Some afternoons can hit the upper 30s °C (95–100 °F), but evenings stay pleasant.
Rain basically disappears. You’ll get 10 hours of sunshine daily, and humidity drops to around 33%, so it’s really dry.
The Red Sea warms up to 23 °C (73 °F), which makes swimming and diving a lot more comfortable. Winds average 18 kph, which helps cool things off when it gets hot.
April’s a favorite for travelers who want hot, sunny weather without the extremes of summer. The seas are warm and the days are long—great for both beach and desert adventures.
Seasonal Weather Overview
Sharm El Sheikh’s dry desert climate means hardly any rain, loads of sunshine, and steady warmth all year. Temperatures swing from mild in winter to really hot in summer, so your best time depends on whether you want cooler outdoor weather or peak heat for water sports.
Spring: March to May
Spring brings rising temperatures and lots of sun. In March, highs average around 25°C (77°F), and nights stay mild at 16°C (61°F).
By May, things heat up a lot, with highs reaching 34°C (93°F).
This season feels great for sightseeing and outdoor fun. Water temperatures warm from about 22°C (72°F) in March to 25°C (77°F) in May, so snorkeling and diving get better.
If you visit in April, expect clear skies and pretty much no rain. May gets hotter, so it’s smart to plan beach or water activities earlier in the day before the midday sun gets intense. The climate’s still manageable compared to the summer peak.
Summer: June to August
Summer brings the hottest days to Sharm El Sheikh. In June, you’ll see highs around 37°C (99°F), and nights barely cool off, hovering at 27°C (81°F). July and August crank up the heat even more, sometimes hitting 38–40°C (100–104°F).
Humidity stays low, but honestly, the heat can feel pretty intense. The Red Sea helps, though, with water temperatures at 27–28°C (81–82°F). Swimming, snorkeling, and diving become the main attractions, even when the air feels scorching.
You’ll need to plan your activities carefully. Try to avoid being outside at midday and stick to mornings or evenings. Sunscreen, hats, and lots of water are must-haves if you’re traveling now.
Autumn: September to November
Autumn tones things down a bit while keeping it warm. In September, highs hover near 35°C (95°F), but nights get a little cooler at 27°C (81°F). October drops to 32°C (90°F), and by November, you’ll see days around 27°C (81°F).
Sea temperatures stay inviting, between 26–28°C (79–82°F), so water sports remain a big draw. You can spend long days at the beach without battling the harsh summer sun.
November feels especially nice for hiking or exploring inland. Rain hardly ever shows up, though you might catch a quick shower late in the season.
Winter: December to February
Winter feels mild and dry here. Daytime highs sit between 22–23°C (72–73°F) in December and January, and February warms up a bit to 24°C (75°F). Nights can dip to 13–15°C (55–59°F), so you’ll want a light jacket for evenings.
The Red Sea stays pleasant, averaging 22–23°C (72–73°F) for swimming. It’s a little cooler, but you can still dive comfortably with a wetsuit.
You’ll notice fewer crowds and lower prices now, which is great if you like quiet surroundings. The weather isn’t hot, but you’ll still get plenty of sun and dry days—a welcome break from colder places.
Weather Factors Impacting Your Visit
The Red Sea, desert surroundings, and consistent sunshine all shape Sharm El Sheikh’s climate. These factors change how warm the water feels, how long you can enjoy daylight, and how comfortable the air feels during your trip.
Sea Temperatures and Swimming Conditions
You’ll find the Red Sea stays warm most of the year, so swimming and snorkeling are possible in every season. Average sea temps range from about 22°C in winter to 28°C in summer. Even in the coldest months, you can dive without heavy thermal gear.
Spring and autumn usually bring the calmest, clearest waters for snorkeling or diving. Fewer winds make these months a favorite, since summer sometimes stirs up choppier conditions.
Families with kids will appreciate the shallow lagoons and beaches, which keep comfortable water temperatures. You won’t get sudden chills, so swimming stays easy and fun almost all year.
| Month | Avg Sea Temp (°C) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | 22–23 | Cooler but swimmable |
| Mar–May | 23–26 | Ideal for diving |
| Jun–Aug | 27–28 | Warmest waters |
| Sep–Nov | 26–27 | Clear and calm |
| Dec | 23 | Mild, good for snorkeling |
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Sharm El Sheikh gets loads of sun. You can expect 8 to 13 hours of daylight depending on the season. Winter brings shorter days, but you’ll still have enough light for most activities.
Summer means the longest daylight hours, which is handy if you’re hoping for more beach time or boat trips. The midday sun can be brutal, so early mornings or late afternoons are better for outdoor plans.
Steady sunshine also gives you reliable weather for excursions like desert safaris or trips to nature reserves. You rarely have to cancel because of bad light or poor visibility.
Humidity and Rainfall Trends
Humidity in Sharm El Sheikh stays pretty low compared to other coastal spots. That makes the heat easier to handle, even in summer. You’ll notice drier air during the day, though evenings might feel a bit more humid near the coast.
Rain almost never happens here. The city gets only a few quick showers a year, mostly late autumn or winter. These showers are short and usually don’t mess up your plans.
Thanks to low rainfall, you can count on outdoor activities like hiking, quad biking, or beach trips. Sudden storms or long wet spells won’t ruin your day.
Dry air and steady sunshine combine to make a stable climate, which is a big reason why so many people see Sharm El Sheikh as a reliable year-round destination.
Travel Tips for Visiting Sharm El Sheikh by Season
Sharm El Sheikh usually stays warm, but how you plan your trip really depends on the season. What you pack, how crowded it gets, and the best things to do all change with the weather—whether you’re here in the hot summer, cooler winter, or the mild shoulder seasons.
What to Pack for Each Season
During winter (December–February), daytime highs reach 70–74°F (21–23°C), but nights can fall close to 50°F (10°C). Bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings, and long pants for comfort.
For spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), pack breathable clothes like cotton shirts, shorts, and sandals. A light layer helps if it gets chilly at night.
In summer (June–August), temps often soar past 95°F (35°C). Stick with loose, light-colored clothes, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses. Don’t forget sunscreen and a refillable water bottle.
If you’re planning to snorkel or dive, bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and maybe a rash guard to protect against sun and coral.
Crowds and Accommodation Availability
Tourism peaks in summer when families arrive for school holidays. Hotels and resorts fill up fast, and prices climb. If you want to visit now, book your flights and rooms early.
Winter months also attract lots of visitors escaping cold weather. January and March get especially busy, and beachfront resorts are in high demand.
November and early spring feel quieter, with fewer crowds. You’ll usually find lower hotel rates and more options. Shoulder seasons can be ideal if you like a calmer vibe and more flexibility.
Outdoor Activities and Events
Winter brings the most comfortable weather for desert safaris, quad biking, and day trips to Mount Sinai. With cooler air, hiking and sightseeing actually feel enjoyable.
Spring and fall work best for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea. The water stays warm, visibility’s usually great, and the reefs aren’t packed with people.
Summer really shines for water-based activities. Scuba diving, parasailing, and boat trips help you beat the heat, but honestly, land excursions can get exhausting fast.
After sunset, the cooler temperatures make evening shows, markets, and resort entertainment way more tempting.
You’ll find cultural festivals happening year-round, but let’s face it, most travelers come here for the beaches and marine life that put Sharm El Sheikh on the map.