Sentido Reef Oasis Senses Resort

A wealth of outdoor fun and a coral reef with a diving center are big draws here, where sprawling, cacti-filled grounds adjoin the neighboring Reef Oasis Beach Resort, and shared facilities mean endless offerings. A total of 15 heated or unheated pools (this includes Executive Room-only ones) are surrounded by sleek terrace spaces with fountain features and charming alcoved seating. The biggest kid-magnet, however, is the aqua park with colorful play structures, seven waterslides (note, these close for a few hours at midday), and animation. Stacked or light-stone exteriors are elegant, as are interiors with neutral-tone decor and cool marble, though rooms aren't as contemporary. Music and playing kids add some noise to the environment, but it's generally not loud enough to disturb guests. 

The hotel's peninsula setting fronting the Red Sea offer great views, and it backs onto a private section of sandy beach with marine-rich coral reefs, clear waters, and great snorkeling and diving opportunities. On the downside, it's isolated, being an 18-minute drive from nightlife and entertainment-packed Naama Bay, with SOHO Square's alternatives 10 minutes farther. Sharm Old Town is seven minutes away by car. A few souvenir, beach, or cellphone stands are within walking distance. The hotel organizes marine, safari, and Tiran Island boat excursions. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is a 23-minute drive.

All with furnished balconies or terraces facing the gardens or pools, warm-toned rooms are largely underwhelming from somewhat dated russet bedding, light-tiled floors, and walls with traditional or abstract artwork. Arabian archways in some have character, and Executive Rooms open directly onto shared private pools. Starting at 474 square feet (44 square meters) though, rooms are spacious, and offer twin or double beds, plus sofa beds in some and two bedrooms in Family Rooms. Clean but compact bathrooms have showers, large mirrors, toiletries, and hairdryers. Other standard amenities include phones, desks, tube-style or flat-screen cable TVs, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, safes, slippers, and robes. Seating areas with chairs or sofas, air-conditioning, and free (but weak) Wi-Fi are also provided. 

Extensive features pack in a lot of water-based fun here. The sandy beach's coral reef waters are lovely, and the on-site diving center (fee) is popular. Shaded loungers and a bar at the beach are also found at the property's 15 pools, which include a quiet one, kiddy option, animation-centric spot, and Executive Room-only setups, plus the huge aqua park's waterslides, rock enclosures, and water playground. A main playground accompanies the kids' club, and children can partake in table tennis, foosball, soccer, basketball, and nightly mini-discos. Tennis, water aerobics, and darts are also on offer. Adult evening shows are well-received, as is food. 

Mo's Restaurant serves international buffets, and Italian or barbecue a la carte eateries are available, all of which are under the all-inclusive package, as is the 24-hour lobby bar. The main restaurant has wooden tables, shiny tile floors, and pops of blue for a contemporary, if generic, look. Al fresco terraces with smart wicker seating offer pleasant sunny or shaded spots to dine as well. Guests can also dine at the beach and at outlets next door (fees may apply). 

The small spa's freestanding whirlpool, sauna, steam room, and Turkish hammam are run-of-the-mill, and sadly, use of them requires a fee. Massages and treatments are available. The fitness center is modern, comprehensive, and free-to-use. Despite sand shores being in walking distance, beach shuttles are free and regular. The hotel has meeting rooms, plus a 24-hour concierge staff. Pets are not permitted. On-site parking is free, as is Wi-Fi everywhere in the hotel.