The Red Sea is one of the main reasons travelers choose Sharm El Sheikh, whether they want to swim from the beach, snorkel above coral reefs, try scuba diving or spend a full day on a boat.

Sea temperature changes gradually throughout the year. The water is coolest during late winter and warmest during summer and early autumn, but marine activities are available throughout the year.

This guide focuses specifically on Sharm El Sheikh sea temperature month by month, helping you understand how the water feels in different seasons and which activities may suit each period.

For general weather and air temperatures, read our Sharm El Sheikh Weather Month-by-Month Guide .

You can also browse all current Sea & Water Activities in Sharm El Sheikh .

Sharm El Sheikh Sea Temperature by Month

Month	Average Sea Temperature	Typical Experience
January	23.3°C	Cooler but suitable for many swimmers and divers
February	22.4°C	Coolest average sea temperature of the year
March	22.7°C	Still relatively cool, gradually warming
April	23.2°C	Comfortable for many marine activities
May	24.6°C	Noticeably warmer water
June	26.3°C	Warm Red Sea conditions
July	28.3°C	Very warm swimming conditions
August	28.8°C	Warmest average sea temperature
September	27.8°C	Very warm water after summer
October	27.6°C	Warm sea with more comfortable land temperatures
November	25.8°C	Pleasantly warm for many visitors
December	24.4°C	Mild winter sea conditions

These figures are long-term monthly averages, not live sea-temperature readings. Actual conditions can vary by day and location.

Sea Temperature in January

The average Red Sea temperature around Sharm El Sheikh in January is approximately 23.3°C.

Many visitors still swim, snorkel and dive during January, although the water can feel cooler than during summer or autumn.

Wind can also affect how comfortable you feel after leaving the water.

January works especially well for travelers who want to combine marine activities with sightseeing or desert adventures .

Sea Temperature in February

February has the lowest average sea temperature of the year at approximately 22.4°C.

That does not mean marine activities stop. Snorkeling and diving continue, but visitors who are sensitive to cooler water may prefer shorter sessions or suitable thermal protection.

For visitors who prefer seeing marine life without entering the water, the Glass Bottom Boat provides an alternative.

Sea Temperature in March

March averages around 22.7°C.

The sea remains relatively cool compared with summer but gradually begins to warm.

This can be an attractive period for travelers who want snorkeling or diving while also enjoying comfortable conditions for excursions on land.

Sea Temperature in April

In April, the average sea temperature rises to approximately 23.2°C.

For many travelers, this feels comfortable enough for swimming and snorkeling, particularly when daytime sunshine is strong.

April is also a useful month for combining snorkeling with other Sharm El Sheikh activities.

Sea Temperature in May

May brings a more noticeable rise in water temperature, averaging about 24.6°C.

Longer swimming and snorkeling sessions may feel more comfortable for visitors who found winter water too cool.

This is also a good period to consider full-day marine experiences such as Ras Mohammed & White Island by boat .

Sea Temperature in June

The average sea temperature reaches approximately 26.3°C in June.

By this point, the Red Sea feels warm for many swimmers.

June is particularly attractive for marine activities including snorkeling, diving, boat trips and private sea experiences.

Travelers looking for a private option can consider the Private Boat, which currently offers snorkeling or diving routes toward Ras Mohammed or Tiran Island.

Sea Temperature in July

July brings very warm Red Sea conditions, with an average of around 28.3°C.

This is a strong period for travelers who want to spend a large part of their holiday in the water.

Popular choices include snorkeling, diving and full-day boat excursions.

Alfa's Sinai Dream Sailboat currently combines sailing with three snorkeling stops, lunch and drinks.

Sea Temperature in August

August has the highest average sea temperature of the year at approximately 28.8°C.

Water conditions feel very warm compared with winter, making August especially attractive to visitors who dislike cool sea temperatures.

At the same time, daytime air temperatures are also very high, so hydration and sun protection are particularly important during boat trips.

Sea Temperature in September

September remains very warm, averaging around 27.8°C.

The Red Sea keeps much of the heat accumulated during summer even as the peak summer period begins to ease.

It is a strong month for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

Sea Temperature in October

October averages approximately 27.6°C.

This combination of warm water and more comfortable air temperatures makes October one of the most versatile months for a holiday that includes both sea and land activities.

Travelers interested in coral reefs and natural scenery can consider Ras Mohammed – Nature Adventure & Legendary Wonders .

Sea Temperature in November

The average sea temperature in November is approximately 25.8°C.

The water remains comfortably warm for many visitors while air temperatures become milder.

November is therefore useful for travelers who want a balanced itinerary combining boat trips, snorkeling, beaches, sightseeing and desert activities.

Sea Temperature in December

December averages around 24.4°C.

The Red Sea remains significantly milder than many winter swimming destinations, although individual comfort varies.

Travelers planning longer sessions in the water should consider their personal tolerance to cooler conditions.

When Is the Red Sea Warmest in Sharm El Sheikh?

The warmest average sea temperature occurs in August, at approximately 28.8°C.

July and September are also very warm, with averages above 27°C.

If warm water is your highest priority, summer and early autumn are generally the strongest periods.

If you also want comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and desert activities, read our Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh guide.

When Is the Red Sea Coolest?

February has the lowest average sea temperature, at around 22.4°C.

January and March are similarly cool compared with the rest of the year.

Marine excursions still operate, but travelers who are sensitive to cooler water should take this into account.

Can You Swim in Sharm El Sheikh All Year?

Many travelers swim throughout the year.

However, whether the water feels comfortable depends on your personal preference, the duration of your swim, wind conditions and the specific location.

A traveler accustomed to cooler seas may find winter comfortable, while someone who prefers tropical-feeling water may favor July through October.

Best Sea Temperature for Snorkeling

There is no single required temperature for snorkeling.

Sharm El Sheikh snorkeling trips operate in different seasons, and the quality of a snorkeling experience also depends on wind, visibility, currents and sea conditions.

Travelers who prefer warmer water often favor late spring through autumn.

Read our full Snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh Guide for locations, safety advice and trip comparisons.

Best Sea Temperature for Diving

Diving is available throughout the year, but water temperature affects equipment choices and personal comfort.

Warmer months may require less thermal protection for some divers, while cooler months can require a more protective wetsuit depending on the individual and dive plan.

Always follow the recommendations of your dive center or instructor rather than choosing equipment based only on an average monthly number.

Does Sea Temperature Affect Coral and Marine Life?

Sea temperature is one part of a much larger marine ecosystem.

Visitors should not assume that a particular month guarantees specific fish, visibility or marine encounters.

Wildlife observations depend on natural conditions and can never be guaranteed.

The most important rule is to observe the reef without touching coral or disturbing marine animals.

Best Red Sea Trips for Swimming and Snorkeling

Alfa Montazah Mobility currently offers several marine experiences suitable for travelers interested in the Red Sea.

Ras Mohammed – Nature Adventure & Legendary Wonders — combines natural attractions with a snorkeling stop.
Ras Mohammed & White Island Boat Trip — a full-day marine excursion with snorkeling or a diving option.
Private Boat — private snorkeling or diving with a customizable route.
Sinai Dream Sailboat — sailing with several snorkeling stops.

You can compare all current marine experiences in the Sea & Water Activities category .

What If You Do Not Want to Swim?

You can still discover the underwater environment of the Red Sea without entering the water.

The Glass Bottom Boat allows guests to observe coral and marine life through viewing windows.

Another option is the Semi-Submarine Trip , which provides underwater views without snorkeling or diving.

Sea Temperature vs Air Temperature

Sea temperature changes more slowly than air temperature.

This is why the Red Sea can remain very warm in September and October even after the hottest part of summer begins to pass.

Similarly, winter sunshine may feel warm on land while the sea remains cooler than in summer.

For a full monthly comparison of daytime and nighttime air temperatures, read our Sharm El Sheikh Weather Guide .

Plan Your Red Sea Holiday

Sea temperature is only one part of planning a marine experience.

You should also consider the type of excursion, how long you want to stay in the water, daily wind and sea conditions, your swimming ability and whether you prefer a beach, yacht or private boat.

Continue planning with:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea temperature in Sharm El Sheikh?

Monthly average sea temperatures range from approximately 22.4°C in February to about 28.8°C in August.

What month has the warmest sea in Sharm El Sheikh?

August has the highest average sea temperature, at approximately 28.8°C.

What month has the coolest sea?

February is the coolest month on average, with a sea temperature of approximately 22.4°C.

Can you swim in Sharm El Sheikh in January?

Many visitors do. The average sea temperature is around 23.3°C, although personal comfort and wind conditions vary.

Can you swim in Sharm El Sheikh in December?

Yes, many travelers swim in December. The average sea temperature is approximately 24.4°C.

When is the best time for warm sea water?

July through October offers particularly warm Red Sea temperatures, with the annual average peak occurring in August.

Is the Red Sea warm enough for snorkeling all year?

Snorkeling trips operate throughout the year, but comfort depends on personal preference, wind, sea conditions and the amount of time spent in the water.

Sharm El Sheikh Sea Temperature: Month-by-Month Guide