Parrotel Beach Resort

The romantic beach atmosphere at the Radisson Blue Resort, Sharm El Sheikh suits couples well, but families wanting a quiet seaside respite will also find much to like here. Manicured tropical gardens weave through the 30-acre property's faux sandstone structures for an exotic feel, complementing the lovely private beach, which maintains a natural rusticity and is lined with lounge chairs below thatched umbrellas. The property has an impressive reef and a dive center, and travelers tend to crowd the private jetty for a chance to gaze at the marine life. Decor is elegant and somewhat dramatic inside the lobby and on a terrace overlooking the palm-shaded property; white-and-black marble flooring, huge domed skylights, wall carvings, and dark rattan furniture are well put-together. Man-made rivers run throughout the gardens and lead to the three lagoon pools -- including a kiddy pool -- where footbridges lead to islands with towering palms, and wicker umbrellas add to the tropical vibe. Off the pool is an enchanting, grotto-style hot tub that's perfect for couples; the gym has a similar cave-like appearance. 

Sharm El-Sheikh is a resort area on the southeastern shore of the Sinai peninsula, and the hotel is in Nabq Bay to the north of the airport. This area of Sharm El-Sheikh tends to be a bit less crowded and is known for its great snorkeling. The resort has a private beach with a jetty, and guests are also within about 15 minutes' drive of Pataya Beach and 25 minutes of Naama Bay. Casual restaurants and the La Strada Mall are within five to 10 minutes by car, while Sharm Old Market is a half-hour drive. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is a 15-minute drive. The hotel has a shuttle service to the airport and Naama Bay for a fee. 

Guest rooms have a whimsical charm, combining floral and striped textiles, white tile floors, tropical artwork, and warm wood furniture. They're not as luxurious as some may expect from an advertised five-star hotel, though. Each Standard Room has individual temperature control, a minibar, tea kettle, satellite flat-screen TV, safe, and garden or sea views. Marine Club rooms have free Wi-Fi and in-room breakfast service, while Deluxe Rooms have discounted shuttle service, dining, and gym access. Rooms with terraces or balconies -- furnished with rattan tables and chairs -- are available, and there are two-bedroom suites with whirlpool tubs. Standard bathrooms are warmly lit, and have peachy tiling and stall showers or shower/tub combos. 

The private beach with jetty and snorkeling is a favorite feature among guests. There are also three lagoon-style pools on the property, offering ample sunbathing space. Guests have five dining options on-site, including buffet-style Mediterranean, homestyle Italian, Egyptian cuisine with fresh-baked breads, thin-crust pizza, and fresh seafood on a waterfront terrace. Additionally, 142 restaurant offers romantic, candlelit five-course dinners for couples. There are also a poolside bar, two beach bars, a 24-hour lobby bar with billiards, and an Italian coffee shop. The Abracadabra Club offers kid-friendly entertainment, a sandy playground, and an amphitheater for shows. The resort also rents out the King Tut ballroom (for up to 280 people). Guests can play beach volleyball and tennis, jog around the track, or head to the spa -- complete with massage service, saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.