Sharm El Sheikh is weird. It’s this glitzy, neon-soaked bubble on the edge of the Sinai desert where luxury resorts usually cost a month's salary. But then you find a place like the Coral Hills Hotel Sharm El Sheikh, and the math starts looking a lot more friendly. Honestly, if you go in expecting the Ritz, you’re going to be disappointed. If you go in looking for a strategic basecamp that doesn't eat your entire diving budget, you’ve hit the jackpot.
It sits right on top of the Um El-Sid Cliff. That's a big deal. Why? Because while the big mega-resorts are fighting for flat beach space in Naama Bay, you’re perched up high with a breeze that actually makes the Egyptian heat bearable.
The Cliffside Reality Check
Let's talk about the location. People get confused. They see "Sharm" and think every hotel has a private beach right outside the lobby door. Not here. Coral Hills Hotel Sharm El Sheikh is in the El Hadaba district. You aren't stepping onto sand from your room. Instead, you're a three-minute drive or a brisk walk from the Old Market.
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The hotel runs a shuttle. Use it.
The beach they use isn't attached to the property, but it’s a secluded spot about 2 km away. If you're a diver, this is actually a blessing. You’re closer to the Ras Mohammed National Park entrance than the folks staying up in Nabq. That saves you an hour on the boat every single morning.
What the rooms are actually like
The resort has about 131 units. Some are "Club" rooms with pool access, others look over the gardens. Honestly? The furniture is a bit dated. You'll see some wear and tear. But the rooms are huge. Like, surprisingly large for a 3-star (sometimes rated 4-star depending on who you ask) property.
- Air conditioning: It works. In Egypt, that’s 90% of the battle.
- The beds: Firm. Some guests find them a bit hard, but they’re clean.
- Bathrooms: Most have rainfall showers, though the hot water can be a bit moody if everyone tries to shower at 6:00 PM after the boats come in.
- Storage: Plenty of closet space for all your gear.
Diving, Dining, and Doing Nothing
The pool scene is the heart of the place. There are two main outdoor pools. One is for the "vibes"—music, animation teams, kids splashing around. The other is a "relax" pool. It’s usually heated in the winter, which is a lifesaver because the Red Sea wind can get chilly in January.
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The food is... fine.
Look, it’s a buffet. You’ll get your grilled meats, your pasta station, and a mountain of Egyptian desserts. If you’re an "all-inclusive" purist, you might find the drink selection limited. Local spirits only. The beer is usually decent, though. But since you’re so close to Il Mercato and the Old Market, you should really venture out for dinner at least twice. Go to Fares Seafood. Get the soup. Trust me.
The Spa and Fitness Stuff
They have a gym. It exists. You probably won't use it because you'll be too tired from swimming. There’s a sauna and a hot tub too, though they sometimes charge an extra fee for the "wellness" center access depending on your booking package.
- Yoga classes: Occasionally held on the terrace.
- Billiards: Good for a rainy day (which almost never happens).
- Kids Club: Small, but keeps the little ones busy while you grab a coffee at the lobby bar.
Why this place is a diver’s secret
Most people booking the Coral Hills Hotel Sharm El Sheikh are looking for a deal, but the real "insiders" are the scuba crowd. The hotel has its own diving center. Because the hotel isn't "luxury," they don't charge luxury prices for excursions.
You can walk to NoosKarting if you want to drive fast, or take the shuttle to Naama Bay for the nightlife. But the real magic is being 28 km away from Ras Mohammed. You can be the first group in the water at Shark Reef before the big boats from the north arrive.
A few things to watch out for
Wi-Fi is a struggle. It’s free in the lobby, but if you need to do a Zoom call from your room, buy a local SIM card at the airport. It’ll save you a lot of gray hair.
Also, the "all-inclusive" bracelets. They cut them off at noon on the day you check out. It’s a bit of a strict policy that catches people off guard. If you have a late flight, be prepared to pay for lunch or just head into town for one last kebab.
Making the most of your stay
If you decide to book, don't just sit by the pool for seven days. You're in one of the most culturally interesting parts of the city.
- The Old Market: It’s a 3-minute drive. Go at night when the Al-Sahaba Mosque is lit up. It looks like something out of a movie.
- Farsha Cafe: It’s about 25 minutes away by foot or a tiny taxi ride. It’s built into the side of a cliff and is probably the most famous "chill" spot in Egypt.
- Snorkeling: Don't just stay at the hotel beach. Pay a few bucks to get into El Fanar beach nearby. The drop-off there is legendary.
Honestly, the Coral Hills Hotel Sharm El Sheikh is exactly what it claims to be: a budget-friendly, clean, well-located resort for people who want to spend their money on experiences rather than gold-plated faucets. It’s not fancy, but it’s got heart. And that view from the cliff? You can't put a price on that.
Actionable Insights for your trip:
- Book a Pool View room: The garden rooms can be a bit dark.
- Pack an extension cord: Outlet placement is a bit "retro."
- Download "InDrive" or "Uber": Taxis outside the gate will try to overcharge you; the apps keep them honest.
- Bring your own snorkel gear: You’ll save $10 a day in rental fees.