Hilton Sharks Bay Resort: Honest Reviews & Tips

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Are you planning a getaway to Sharm el-Sheikh and considering the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort? You've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide dives deep into what you can expect, offering honest reviews, helpful tips, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision about your stay. We'll cover everything from the rooms and dining options to the pools, beach, and overall experience. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let's explore the ins and outs of this popular Red Sea resort.

First Impressions: What to Expect at Hilton Sharks Bay

When you first arrive at the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort, you'll immediately notice its impressive size and well-maintained grounds. The resort is designed with a sprawling layout, featuring multiple swimming pools, lush gardens, and various buildings housing the guest rooms and facilities. The architecture blends modern elements with traditional Egyptian styles, creating a visually appealing atmosphere. Check-in is generally efficient, and the staff is usually welcoming and helpful. However, be prepared for a bit of a walk to your room, depending on its location within the resort.

One of the first things that strikes many visitors is the sheer number of guests. This is a large resort, and it can feel quite busy, especially during peak season. Expect to encounter crowds at the buffet restaurants and around the main pool areas. If you're looking for a quiet and secluded vacation, this might not be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities and opportunities to socialize, you'll likely feel right at home.

The resort's location in Sharks Bay is a definite plus. It's conveniently close to Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport, making transfers quick and easy. The bay itself is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life just a short distance from the shore. The resort also offers easy access to other attractions in the area, such as Naama Bay and Soho Square.

Accommodation: Room Types and Comfort

The Hilton Sharks Bay Resort offers a variety of room types to suit different needs and budgets. You can choose from standard rooms, family rooms, suites, and villas. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, including air conditioning, a private bathroom, a television, and a mini-fridge. However, the decor and furnishings can vary depending on the room category and location within the resort.

Standard rooms are generally clean and comfortable, but some guests have noted that they can feel a bit dated. If you're looking for more space and modern amenities, consider upgrading to a family room or suite. These rooms typically offer separate living areas, larger bathrooms, and enhanced features. Villas provide the ultimate in luxury and privacy, with private pools and gardens.

Here's a breakdown of the room types you might encounter:

  • Standard Rooms: These are the most basic option, offering essential amenities and a comfortable space for two adults. They may have a balcony or terrace with views of the garden, pool, or sea.
  • Family Rooms: These rooms are designed to accommodate families with children, offering more space and additional beds. They may also have separate sleeping areas for parents and kids.
  • Suites: Suites offer the most luxurious experience, with separate living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms. They may also have access to exclusive amenities and services.
  • Villas: Villas provide the ultimate in privacy and luxury, with private pools, gardens, and dedicated staff.

When booking your room, be sure to check the specific amenities and features included. Some rooms may offer complimentary Wi-Fi, while others may charge an additional fee. Also, consider the location of your room within the resort. Rooms closer to the main pool areas can be noisy, while those further away may offer more peace and quiet.

Dining: Food and Beverage Options

The Hilton Sharks Bay Resort offers a wide range of dining options, including buffet restaurants, à la carte restaurants, and bars. The main buffet restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a variety of international and local dishes. The à la carte restaurants offer more specialized cuisine, such as Italian, Asian, and seafood.

Here's a closer look at the dining options you can expect:

  • Main Buffet Restaurants: These restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes, including salads, soups, main courses, and desserts. The food is generally good quality, but it can get repetitive after a few days. Expect these to be very busy during peak times.
  • À la Carte Restaurants: These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, with a smaller menu and higher-quality ingredients. Reservations are typically required, and there may be an additional charge.
  • Bars: The resort has several bars located throughout the property, serving a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Some bars also offer snacks and light meals.

One of the most common criticisms of the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort is the quality and variety of the food. While the buffet restaurants offer a wide selection of dishes, some guests have found the food to be bland and repetitive. The à la carte restaurants offer a better dining experience, but they can be expensive.

Here are some tips for making the most of the dining options at the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort:

  • Try the local cuisine: Be sure to sample some of the Egyptian dishes on offer. They are often the most flavorful and authentic.
  • Make reservations for the à la carte restaurants: These restaurants are popular, so it's best to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Take advantage of the all-inclusive drinks: The all-inclusive package includes a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, so be sure to make the most of it.

Pools and Beach: Relaxation and Recreation

The Hilton Sharks Bay Resort boasts several swimming pools, including a main pool, a children's pool, and a relaxation pool. The main pool is the largest and most lively, with plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas. The children's pool is shallower and has a water slide, making it perfect for families with young children. The relaxation pool is quieter and more secluded, offering a more peaceful atmosphere.

The resort also has a private beach, which is located just a short walk from the main pool area. The beach is sandy and well-maintained, with plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas. The water is clear and calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

However, be aware that the beach can get crowded, especially during peak season. Also, the water can be quite shallow in some areas, making it difficult to swim. The resort provides access to the sea via a jetty, allowing you to reach the deeper waters and the coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

Here are some tips for enjoying the pools and beach at the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort:

  • Arrive early to secure a sun lounger: The best spots are often taken early in the morning, especially during peak season.
  • Bring your own snorkeling gear: The snorkeling is excellent in Sharks Bay, so be sure to bring your own gear or rent it from the resort.
  • Be aware of the sun: The sun in Sharm el-Sheikh can be very strong, so be sure to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Activities and Entertainment: Fun for Everyone

The Hilton Sharks Bay Resort offers a wide range of activities and entertainment for guests of all ages. You can participate in water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. You can also play tennis, volleyball, or football. The resort also has a fitness center, a spa, and a kids' club.

In the evenings, the resort offers a variety of entertainment, including live music, dance shows, and themed parties. There is also a casino on site for those who want to try their luck.

Here are some of the activities and entertainment options you can expect:

  • Water Sports: Snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and other water sports are available at the beach.
  • Sports: Tennis, volleyball, football, and other sports can be played at the resort's sports facilities.
  • Fitness Center: The resort has a well-equipped fitness center for guests who want to stay in shape.
  • Spa: The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
  • Kids' Club: The kids' club provides supervised activities for children of all ages.
  • Entertainment: Live music, dance shows, themed parties, and other entertainment are offered in the evenings.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

To give you a balanced perspective, let's summarize the pros and cons of staying at the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort:

Pros:

  • Excellent location: Close to the airport and the vibrant Sharks Bay.
  • Wide range of facilities: Multiple pools, restaurants, and activities.
  • Good value for money: The all-inclusive package offers good value for the price.
  • Friendly staff: The staff is generally welcoming and helpful.

Cons:

  • Can be crowded: The resort can get very busy, especially during peak season.
  • Food quality can be inconsistent: Some guests have found the food to be bland and repetitive.
  • Rooms can be dated: Some of the rooms are in need of renovation.
  • Beach can be crowded and shallow: The beach can get very busy, and the water is shallow in some areas.

Final Verdict: Is Hilton Sharks Bay Right for You?

So, is the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort the right choice for your Sharm el-Sheikh vacation? Ultimately, it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a lively resort with plenty of activities and a convenient location, it could be a good option. However, if you're seeking a quiet and luxurious getaway, you might want to consider other alternatives.

Consider these factors when making your decision:

  • Your budget: The Hilton Sharks Bay Resort offers good value for money, but there are other resorts in Sharm el-Sheikh that offer more luxury at a higher price.
  • Your travel style: If you enjoy a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities, you'll likely feel right at home at the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort. However, if you prefer a more peaceful and secluded vacation, you might want to consider a smaller resort.
  • Your priorities: If you prioritize excellent food and luxurious accommodations, you might want to look elsewhere. However, if you're more concerned with value for money and a convenient location, the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort could be a good choice.

Ultimately, reading reviews and comparing different options is the best way to find the perfect resort for your needs. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your stay at the Hilton Sharks Bay Resort. Happy travels!