Sharm el Sheikh residents describe the picturesque Shark Bay as a place that still has the feel of what Sharm was like before the arrival of mass tourism: a relaxed, friendly and relaxing place with breathtaking views of Tiran Island and the marina.

There are different stories about the origin of the bay’s name; some say that sharks actually lived in the bay until about 12 years ago, others say that some tourists mistook manta rays for sharks and that’s where the name came from, while another version of the story says that local fishermen unloaded their shark catch right at this bay.

Whatever the true story may be, one thing is for sure: today there are no sharks in Sharks Bay! Times may have changed when camels were seen walking along the beach between the cafes and the sea, but the place is still as paradisiacal and authentic as it gets, offering some of the best diving and snorkelling in Sharm El Sheikh. The on-site dive centres cater to divers of all levels, and for those who do not like diving, there is a wide range of water activities. Banana and donut rides, wake boarding, surfing and water skiing are just some of the options available.