Nabq Bay Holidays

Tucked away at the northern tip of Sharm el Sheikh, this spot is a top-quality blend of mahoosive luxury resorts and ruggedly charming, protected landscapes where the desert literally tip-toes into the sea.

Why do people love going on holidays to Nabq Bay?

• The Mangrove magic - It's home to the northernmost mangrove forest in the world, giving you a sought-after look at rare birds and desert foxes you won't find in Naama Bay.

• Luxury for less - You will find some of the most swanky, 5-star resorts here where you can get every last penny worth, making it a champion choice for budget-savvy ballers.

• Kitesurfing heaven - Thanks to a cheeky breeze that stays consistent all year, it's the best spot in the region to fill your sails and catch some air, literally plain-sailing.

• The "City within a City" - With its own entertainment hubs like La Strada, you have direct access to all the delish restaurants and bars you need without having to leave the area.

Choosing the best season for your Nabq Bay escape

Deciding when to head off on your Nabq Bay jollies depends entirely on your heat tolerance. It's a year-round paradise, but the shifting seasons offer everything from "human steak bake" warmth in the height of summer to easy breezy winter days that are absolute gold for thrill-seekers who still want a tan.

• Spring - The "just right" season - Expect a cushy average of 25°C, which is the perfect temperature for exploring the mangroves without catching sun stroke.

• Summer - Peak tanning vibes - Even when it's boiling-hot at 35°C, the low humidity and coastal breeze make Nabq the smartest pick in Sharm for all the UV-merchants.

• Autumn - The swimmer's delight - The Red Sea is at its warmest (about 27°C), making it the top-tier time for snorkelling until your fingers go wrinkly.

• Winter - The kitesurfer's dream - It stays a pleasant 20°C during the day, though the breeze picks up, so be sure to bring a hoodie for those sunset cocktails.

Things to do on your Nabq Bay holidays: The local insider guide

If you want the real-deal Nabq Bay experience, you need to sneak away from the sunbed and find the hidden hangouts that don't make it into the standard brochures. There's a whole world of desert-cool bars and authentic Egyptian eats waiting just behind those hotel gates.

• Dine at El Khan - Skip the resort food for a night and head here for some proper traditional Egyptian grilled meats that love to showboat on your tastebuds.

• Sunset at the Bedouin Tents - Follow the local tracks into the desert for a traditional tea session as the mountains turn a fairytale shade of pink.

• Snorkel the "Blue Hole" of Nabq - Ask a local guide to show you the secret deep spots in the reef that most tourists miss, you won't be disappointed.

• Early Morning Kayaking - Rent a boat and head into the mangroves where the water is as clear as glass - it's a total at-one-with-nature moment.

• Stroll La Strada at Night - This is the local heart of Nabq, haven for all you people watchers where you can wander along with a Fanta Lemon in hand and soak up the energy.

• Visit the Salt Marshes - Take a slow walk through the Nabq Protectorate to see the stonking salt flats that look like something from another planet.

• Kitesurf at the Pro Centres - Even if you are a total newbie, joining the local kiting community for a lesson is a belting way to spend a day, and you might surprise yourself.

What are the best beaches to visit on your Nabq Bay holidays?

The coastline here is unique, featuring a picturesque shallow shelf that's more than ideal for families, leading out to a dramatic reef drop-off for the serious divers who have got a bit of bottle.

• The Mangrove Beach - Located inside the protectorate, this is a proper serene, untouched spot where the desert meets the sea in total hush.

• La Strada Beach - A thriving spot near the main hub where it's all happening. You can find sunbeds, chilled tunes, and plenty of your fave holiday cocktails.

• The Shipwreck Coast - Head further north to see the Maria Schroeder wreck - it's an influencer level photo op that your followers are going to buzz off, not to mention the unforgettable snorkelling experience you can have.

• Kite Bubble Beach - The go-to hangout for the local kiting crowd; it's always a vibe watching them catch some serious air whilst you lounge about doing 'nowt'.

• The Lagoon Shallows - Perfect for the kiddos, these dreamy knee-deep waters stretch for ages, making it a very safe spot for a splash.

Getting around on your Nabq Bay holidays

Nabq Bay might feel like its own little world, but getting from your fancy resort to the local hubs is part of the fun. Whether you are hopping on a local bus for the proper authentic experience or sorting a swift taxi to Naama Bay, the transport here is surprisingly easy to navigate once you know the "unwritten" rules of the road.

• The Blue Bus vibe - These local microbuses are the lifeblood of the area, offering a cheap and handy way to travel like a resident for just a few Egyptian pounds.

• Top-tier taxi apps - With apps like SharmTaxi now popping off, you can skip the haggling and get a fixed-price ride straight from your hotel lobby.

• Walkable resort hubs - Areas like La Strada are totally pedestrian-friendly, meaning you can doddle from shops to bars without needing a lift or picking up any blisters from your sandals.

• Breezy bike rentals - With all of the flat and wide roads, Nabq is basically a cyclists fantasy, giving you the freedom to find those hidden mangrove spots at your own pace whilst you take mental shots of the scenery.