Weather Lowdown
January in Shark's Bay, Egypt falls in the middle of the winter season. Although January is the coldest month for Shark's Bay it will be much warmer than the UK. There will be little to no rainfall in January. This along with the fact that summer crowds will be nowhere to be seen makes January an ideal time to visit.
The average temperature throughout January is 17°C (62°F). The average high gets to 21°C (70°F) which are mostly experienced in the middle of the month, as the beginning ten days and last ten days often see daily highs above 21°C (70°F). The average low drops to 12°C (54°F) and is most common in the middle of the month as well. Daily lows in the beginning ten days and last ten days of January often reach 14°C (58°F). January is characterized by constant daily highs with only one day in ten going above 26°C (78°F) or going below 19°C (66°F). Daily lows only go under 12°C (53°F) or over 17°C (63°F) one in ten days.
The average rainfall for January is a miniscule 1mm which is essentially seen throughout the whole year. This translates to on average one day of rainfall or 1 in every 31 days.
The average humidity for January is 45% and ranges from 30%, which is considered dry, to 60% which is considered mildly humid. The humidity rarely goes under 19%, which is considered dry, or above 75%, which is considered humid. The end of January is the most likely to be least humid.
The wind speed in January varies between 2mph, light air, to 16mph, moderate breeze. The beginning of January will be most likely to have the highest wind speed. The end of January will be most likely to have the lowest wind speed. The wind direction blows out of the north most often and the southwest least often.
The average sunshine hours in January is 8, which is the lowest amount for the year, tied with December. The daily sunshine very slowly increases as the month goes on with the end of the month having the most daily sunshine.
The average sea temperature for January is 22°C (72°F). This is the second lowest average sea temperature for the year, the first being February and March at 21°C (70°F).
Where to stay
Set in Sharm El Sheikh, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh Egypt provides a luxurious option for your holiday. By booking here you can be confident in receiving world class hospitality known of the Four Seasons Brand. There are 136 resort rooms including 27 suites. All rooms have a balcony or terrace, most with a view of the Red Sea. Make sure to relax at the spa with one of their signature body treatments.
A great bargain option is the Oonas Dive Club Hotel in Naama Bay. Located on the beach, accommodation consists of single or double rooms and suites. There is a restaurant, bar, shops and even dive centre on site. All rooms include balconies (some with sea view), en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, refrigerator, satellite TV and beach towels.
A romantic choice for a couple's getaway can be found at Stella Di Mare Beach Hotel & Spa in Sharm El Sheikh. Located on the sea front, this hotel provides amazing views as well as a private beach. There are 298 rooms available as well as suite options. The onsite spa offers a variety of options and provides access to a steam bath, Turkish bath, saunas, hydrotherapy, emotional shower therapy and both indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis.
Shark's Bay Umbi Diving Village offers a friendly accommodation option. This hotel is built into the cliff side with all rooms getting remarkable views. Each room has air-conditioning, en suite facilities, television, telephone, mini-fridge and either a private balcony or small terrace. Breakfast is included with all rooms.
Things to do
Those interested in stunning churches need to see the Coptic Orthodox Church in Sharm El Sheikh. It is one of the oldest churches in the world. Both the inside and outside of this church are amazing as there is stained glass from top to bottom. There are also plentiful handpainted works of art on display. Please note that women will be given a long thin garment to wear before being permitted to enter.
For a truly fun experience check out Sinai Safari Adventures. This tour company offers unforgettable excursions such as quad biking, boat trips, camel rides and even a rhino safari. One of the options is called "The Total Experience: Stargazing with Double Quad Safari" (£80). This option includes dinner, show, camel, baking bread, shisha pipes and ends with a unique view of the night sky.
Hit the beach
A must-visit beach while in Shark's Bay is Ras Um Sid located in Sharm El Sheikh. This is a great beach for families as it is a much quieter than other beaches in the region, and is mostly frequented by divers and snorkellers. Those with small children should not be concerned as you will be able to experience the amazing marine life very close to shore where the water is shallow. There is a bar near the beach and sunbeds are provided.
Eating & drinking out
For a great Indian meal head to Rangoli at the Moevenpick Resort in Naama Bay. You will find traditional Indian dishes as chefs cook your meat and seafood in a tandoor. Your meal will include fresh, hot naans and rotis all while taking in the beauty of Naama Bay. The staff here complete the experience, all being very hospitable and knowledgeable if you have any questions. The chef is known to go around seeing how your meal came out.
If you are looking for a place to have a night out or watch some football with a couple drinks then check out Jive 1 Bar in Sharm El Sheikh. You will find no hassling to buy more drinks here as the staff is very welcoming. This English bar offers free Wi-Fi, karaoke, pool tables and cheap drinks.
