Where to buy a snorkeling mask in Sharm el-Sheikh and how much does it cost?
From messages by 7 participants in 2 sources · Last activity: 7 days ago
From messages by 7 participants in 2 sources · Last activity: 7 days ago
TL;DR
In summer and autumn 2026, travelers bought snorkel masks in Sharm el-Sheikh for $5–30: hotel shops and minimarkets usually charged $15–30 (in September 2026 people reported paying $15 and $20), while Fix Price stores and Naama Bay had masks from $5–8. In June 2026 one traveler found masks in the Old Market $5–10 cheaper than near hotels. Always try a mask on before buying; many advise beginners against full-face masks, though they have fans too.
A classic snorkeling mask can be bought for about $20. It was described as mid-range quality, with cheaper options also available.
A hotel minimarket sold masks for $15 each; they were reported to be of quite decent quality.
If you prefer to buy gear before the trip, in September 2026 one participant recommended Cressi and Mares as reasonably budget-friendly brands, and Scubapro or Beuchat for professionals; these brands are sold through online marketplaces. In late September and October 2026 others also recommended Tusa masks and snorkels, which come at various price points; one participant said nobody had complained about branded masks such as Tusa or Scorpena. Among cheaper options, Decathlon-made masks were praised but described as hard to find.
In September 2026 a participant advised choosing a regular mask rather than a full-face one. According to her, the small shop at the hotel entrance has a decent selection, and the seller there helps pick gear and answers questions. She herself thinks it is more reliable to have your own gear — both a mask and a vest.
For a full-face mask, try it on in the shop and check that breathing feels comfortable, since getting the size right matters. It costs about $8 at Fix Price, while bargaining at a market near the hotel can bring the price to roughly $10–12.
One tip mentions a well-known seller called 'Roma's' as the easiest option — you can find his stalls right by some hotel receptions, as well as in small shops just across the road from the hotel.
In the Nabq area, at a shop called Cluny, masks start from $5 and fins from $10, though the quality is budget-level — this gear typically lasts about 1–2 vacations.
One traveler shared their experience: they first bought a regular mask with snorkel back home, but the snorkel kept falling out and wouldn't stay vertical. After trying a full-face mask locally, they bought one and have used only full-face masks for 6 years since — their advice is to try different types on the beach with other tourists before deciding.
At a Fix Price store, a half-face mask was bought for $5 — a great option for people with braces. The only catch is getting used to not opening your mouth underwater.
In late July 2026 one tourist noticed that masks in the hotel shop cost roughly three times as much as at Fix Price. It is worth comparing prices in town before buying at the hotel.
To prevent mask fogging, special anti-fog sprays are available on online marketplaces — convenient to buy in advance before the trip.
Note that the factory anti-fog coating on masks doesn't last forever — it eventually wears off, and how long it lasts depends on the manufacturer.
Masks that look similar can vary a lot in quality. When comparing, focus on the price of a specific model from a specific brand rather than general appearance.
A snorkeling mask was seen at Sharm el-Sheikh airport for about $10, which can be a budget option if you didn’t buy one in town.
In fixed-price shops, higher-end snorkeling masks can be found for about 415 Egyptian pounds; sellers describe them as the top option in their range.
In June 2026 travelers bought two full-face masks at a hotel shop for about $35 after a bit of bargaining. The masks they had brought from home rubbed badly under the nose once they got sunburned — worth keeping in mind when choosing a model.
In the old town, masks are $5–10 cheaper than near hotels. It's also a good place to replace a broken snorkel tube or pick up a new mask mid-trip.
Snorkel masks come in different sizes — smaller and larger than standard. Medium size is considered the best fit for most people.
A second-hand mask in near-new condition can be cleaned with alcohol and used safely. If you prefer new, there are plenty of shops near most hotels.
In late July 2026 a traveler recommended buying masks locally: panoramic full-face masks in Naama Bay cost $5–8, and there is a free shuttle there. Sun-protection shirts were also sold cheaply at the Fix Price store there.
In June 2026 beginners were talked out of full-face masks in favor of a classic mask with a separate snorkel, even though such sets cost more; the same advice was repeated in September 2026. Reports from July and October 2026 say breathing can feel hard in cheap full-face masks. Full-face masks do have fans, though — see their experience above.
Average price for a mask with snorkel is around $30. Always try it on before buying to ensure a proper seal. Anti-fog spray often runs out at the pier, but dive center staff will usually treat your mask if you ask. Burning a new mask is another way to prevent fogging.
In August 2026 a stall on hotel grounds sold masks for $20. Participants noted that near hotels a mask will likely cost more than in town, but if you enjoy bargaining, buying there is still an option.