Sharm El Sheikh with Kids: Complete Family Guide
Sharm El Sheikh can be an excellent destination for a family holiday, combining warm weather, Red Sea beaches, marine life, boat trips, entertainment and desert experiences.
The key to planning Sharm El Sheikh with children is choosing activities that match their age, swimming ability, energy level and comfort with long excursions.
Some families prefer short experiences such as a glass-bottom boat or semi-submarine, while others choose a full day at Ras Mohammed, a private boat trip or a desert adventure.
This family guide explains what to do in Sharm El Sheikh with kids, which Alfa experiences may suit families, what to consider before booking and how to build a balanced family itinerary.
You can also browse all current Sharm El Sheikh tours and experiences.
Is Sharm El Sheikh Good for Families?
Yes. Sharm El Sheikh offers a wide variety of experiences that can work well for families, from relaxed marine activities to sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
However, the word family-friendly does not automatically mean that every activity is suitable for every child.
Before booking, parents should check:
- Minimum age or participation requirements
- Swimming ability where relevant
- Trip duration
- Amount of time in direct sun
- Physical activity required
- Whether transfers are included
- Whether meals and drinks are included
- Current weather and sea conditions
Best Family Activities in Sharm El Sheikh
| Experience | Why Families May Like It | Important Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Bottom Boat | See coral and marine life without swimming | Infants must sit on laps |
| Semi-Submarine | Underwater views through panoramic windows | Children must remain with an adult |
| Ras Mohammed | Nature, sightseeing and snorkeling in one trip | Check swimming and equipment requirements |
| Speed Boat | Short and exciting Red Sea experience | Participation depends on safety requirements |
| Private Boat | More privacy and flexibility for the family | Scuba diving restrictions apply to younger children |
| Dolphin Experiences | Close interaction and memorable family experience | Check current participation conditions before booking |
1. Glass Bottom Boat with Kids
A glass-bottom boat is one of the easiest ways for families to discover the Red Sea without requiring children to swim or snorkel.
Alfa's Glass Bottom Boat is currently a one-hour family-friendly experience.
The lower level allows passengers to look through glass viewing areas toward coral formations and marine life, while the upper deck provides open-air sea views.
The current child policy states that infants must sit on laps.
This can be a useful option for families with children who are too young for snorkeling or simply prefer to stay dry.
2. Semi-Submarine Trip for Families
The Semi-Submarine Trip offers another way to see the underwater world without swimming or diving.
Guests sit in an underwater viewing area with large panoramic windows and watch coral reefs, fish and the Red Sea environment from inside the vessel.
The current experience lasts approximately two hours and specifically welcomes families with children.
Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the trip.
This can be particularly useful for:
- Families with younger children
- Children who do not swim confidently
- Parents who want a calmer sea experience
- Families who want to see coral without snorkeling
Glass Bottom Boat or Semi-Submarine?
Both allow families to see the Red Sea without getting into the water, but the experiences are different.
The glass-bottom boat is shorter and simple, while the semi-submarine offers a larger underwater viewing environment and a longer experience.
Families with very young children may prefer the shorter duration, while children fascinated by fish and coral may enjoy spending more time in the underwater viewing area.
3. Ras Mohammed with Children
Ras Mohammed National Park combines Red Sea scenery with the natural landscapes of South Sinai.
Alfa's Ras Mohammed – Nature Adventure & Legendary Wonders is currently marked as family friendly.
The trip includes natural attractions such as the Earthquake Crack, mangrove trees, Allah Gate, a snorkeling stop and Magic Lake.
This can be a good choice for families with older children who want more variety than a simple beach day.
Remember that snorkeling equipment is currently listed separately, so check the latest tour inclusions before booking.
For a detailed overview, read our Ras Mohammed National Park Guide .
4. Boat Trip to Ras Mohammed & White Island
Families who enjoy full days at sea can consider the Boat Trip to Ras Mohammed & White Island .
The published experience combines a yacht trip, marine stops, snorkeling or an applicable diving option, lunch and White Island.
A full-day boat trip is very different from a one-hour activity, so parents should consider how comfortable younger children are with spending many hours away from the hotel.
5. Private Boat for Families
A private boat can offer more privacy and flexibility for families who prefer not to join a large group.
Alfa's Private Boat is currently marked as family friendly and can include snorkeling or diving, buffet lunch and private time on the Red Sea.
The current child information states that scuba diving is not suitable for children under 10 years old.
Families should distinguish between simply joining the boat and participating in specific water activities.
6. Speed Boat with Kids
Families looking for a shorter and more energetic sea experience can consider the Speed Boat Trip in Sharm El Sheikh .
The current trip lasts approximately one hour and is marked as family friendly.
Children can participate according to safety requirements, and all guests must follow the professional team's instructions and use the required safety equipment.
Families who want more time on the water can also compare the 2-Hour Private Speed Boat Trip .
7. Swimming with Dolphins
Alfa currently offers a Swimming with Dolphins in Sharm El Sheikh experience.
The current program includes a 15-minute session in the water where participants can interact with dolphins and swim alongside them.
Parents should check the current age, swimming and participation requirements before booking for a child rather than assuming the activity is suitable for every age.
8. Dolphin Show
Families who prefer to watch dolphins rather than enter the water can check Alfa's current tours and entertainment options for the Dolphin Show in Sharm El Sheikh .
The show option is different from the swimming experience and can be easier for families who want dolphin entertainment without a water session.
Check the current tour listing for schedule, transfers and child conditions before booking.
9. Snorkeling with Children
Snorkeling can be a memorable family activity, but suitability depends strongly on the child's swimming ability and confidence in open water.
Parents should never assume that all snorkeling stops are shallow or calm.
Before booking, check:
- Age requirements
- Water depth
- Whether a life jacket is available or required
- Whether snorkeling equipment is included
- How the child enters and exits the water
- Current wind and sea conditions
Read our complete Snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh Guide before planning a family snorkeling day.
10. Beaches for Families
A simple beach day can be just as enjoyable as a full excursion, particularly when traveling with very young children.
Different parts of Sharm El Sheikh offer different beach conditions, reef access and resort facilities.
Families should consider:
- Ease of water entry
- Shade
- Toilets and changing facilities
- Food and drinks nearby
- Distance from the hotel
- Whether access is sandy or mainly from a jetty
Compare different areas in our Best Beaches in Sharm El Sheikh guide.
11. Desert Adventures with Kids
The Sinai Desert can provide a completely different family experience from the Red Sea.
However, desert activities vary considerably, and age or safety restrictions may apply to quad bikes, buggies, camel rides and other activities.
Browse Safari & Desert Adventures and check each individual excursion before booking for children.
For families, it is especially important to consider:
- Age and height requirements
- Who is allowed to drive
- Helmet and safety equipment
- Length of the desert program
- Daytime heat
- Whether food or drinks are included
12. Family-Friendly Water Activities
Alfa's current Sea & Water Activities category includes a wide variety of marine experiences.
Some are explicitly marked family friendly, including Glass Bottom Boat, Speed Boat, Private Boat, Ras Mohammed and several other current activities.
Other activities can involve stronger physical or safety requirements, so always check the individual page instead of relying only on the category.
Best Activities for Children Who Do Not Swim
Children do not need to be strong swimmers to enjoy the Red Sea.
Families can consider:
- Glass Bottom Boat
- Semi-Submarine Trip
- Dolphin Show
- Beach and resort activities
- Selected sightseeing experiences
These can provide marine or holiday experiences without requiring a child to snorkel in open water.
Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh with Kids
Families often prefer periods when temperatures are comfortable enough to combine beach time with outdoor excursions.
Spring and autumn can offer a useful balance between warm sea conditions and more manageable daytime temperatures.
Summer can be very hot, particularly during the middle of the day, while winter provides milder conditions but cooler evenings and sea temperatures.
Compare the seasons in our Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh guide.
Sea Temperature for Children
Children's tolerance for water temperature varies just as it does for adults.
The Red Sea is warmest during summer and early autumn and cooler during winter.
Check our Sharm El Sheikh Sea Temperature Month-by-Month Guide when planning swimming or snorkeling.
Weather and Sun Protection
Sharm El Sheikh receives strong sunshine for much of the year.
Families should plan carefully for outdoor activities, especially during hotter periods.
Useful precautions include:
- Regular sunscreen
- Hats
- Sunglasses
- Drinking water
- Light breathable clothing
- Shade and rest breaks
Check typical monthly conditions in our Sharm El Sheikh Weather Guide .
How to Plan Family Excursion Days
One common mistake is trying to schedule a demanding excursion every day.
A more comfortable family itinerary can alternate between longer and shorter activities.
| Day Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Easy Day | Beach + Glass Bottom Boat |
| Adventure Day | Ras Mohammed or full boat trip |
| Recovery Day | Hotel pool + short evening outing |
| Fun Day | Dolphins or Semi-Submarine |
What to Pack for Sharm El Sheikh with Children
- Sunscreen
- Sun hats
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear
- Towels when not included
- Comfortable shoes
- Light clothing
- Water
- Snacks where appropriate
- Personal medication
- A light layer during cooler months
- Passport or identification when required by the excursion
Important Questions to Ask Before Booking for Children
Before confirming any family activity, check the individual tour page or ask Alfa support:
- Is there a minimum age?
- Can infants participate?
- Does the child need to know how to swim?
- Are life jackets provided?
- How long is the activity?
- How much time is spent in direct sun?
- Are hotel transfers included?
- Is food included?
- Is equipment included?
- Are there health or physical restrictions?
Recommended Alfa Family Experiences
- Glass Bottom Boat
- Semi-Submarine Trip
- Ras Mohammed – Nature Adventure & Legendary Wonders
- Speed Boat Trip
- Private Boat
- Swimming with Dolphins
Always open the individual activity and check its current child policy before booking.
Plan More of Your Family Holiday
- 25 Best Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
- Best Beaches in Sharm El Sheikh
- Snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh
- Ras Mohammed National Park Guide
- Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh
Alfa Montazah Mobility provides local support in Sharm El Sheikh for tours, marine activities, transportation, car rental, scooter rental and airport transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sharm El Sheikh suitable for children?
Yes. Sharm El Sheikh offers many activities suitable for families, but parents should check the age, safety and participation requirements of each individual experience.
What can young children do in Sharm El Sheikh?
Options can include beaches, the Glass Bottom Boat, Semi-Submarine and selected entertainment or sightseeing experiences depending on the child's age.
Can children go snorkeling?
It depends on their age, swimming ability and the specific excursion. Always check the tour requirements and sea conditions before allowing a child to snorkel.
Can babies go on a glass-bottom boat?
The current Alfa Glass Bottom Boat policy allows infants, but they must sit on an adult's lap.
Is the semi-submarine suitable for children?
Yes. The current Alfa Semi-Submarine experience specifically welcomes children, who must remain accompanied by an adult.
Can children ride the speed boat?
The current Alfa Speed Boat page states that children can participate according to safety requirements. Confirm suitability for your child's age before booking.
Can children swim with dolphins?
Participation conditions should be checked directly on the current experience before booking, as suitability can depend on age and other requirements.
What is the best season for a family holiday?
Spring and autumn often provide a comfortable balance between warm sea conditions and manageable daytime temperatures, but Sharm El Sheikh can be visited throughout the year.
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