Eilat

Eilat, Israel's southernmost city, is located on the shores of the Red Sea. With warm weather throughout the year, the city is known for its coral reefs and proximity to the Negev Desert. In Eilat, you can snorkel among colorful fish at the Coral Beach Nature Reserve, observe marine life from the Underwater Observatory, or take a jeep tour in the nearby desert landscapes.

Location and Climate

Eilat sits at the northern tip of the Red Sea, where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Negev Desert. The city has an arid climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 21°C (70°F). Eilat receives very little rainfall, with only about 6 rainy days per year.

Beaches and Water Activities

The city's coastline extends for about 10 kilometers, with several beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F) throughout the year, making it comfortable for water activities in any season. You can go jet skiing, kayaking, or parasailing along the shore.

Coral Reefs and Marine Life

Eilat's coral reefs are among the northernmost in the world and host a variety of marine life. The Coral Beach Nature Reserve protects a 1.2-kilometer stretch of reef, where you can see over 100 types of coral and 800 species of fish. The clear waters and calm conditions make it suitable for snorkeling and diving.

Diving and Snorkeling

Many diving clubs and schools in Eilat operate year-round, offering equipment rental and courses for beginners and experienced divers. You can explore underwater sites like the Satil wreck, an old Israeli navy ship that was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef.

Dolphin Reef

At the Dolphin Reef, you can interact with bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. The facility focuses on research and conservation, allowing visitors to observe and swim with dolphins in a controlled environment. You can choose from activities like snorkeling or scuba diving with the dolphins.

Underwater Observatory Marine Park

The Underwater Observatory allows you to explore marine life without getting wet. The observatory tower extends 6 meters below the water's surface, providing 360-degree views of the surrounding reef. The park also includes aquariums, a shark pool, and a turtle and stingray pool.

Desert Excursions

Just outside Eilat, the Negev Desert offers several adventure options. You can take jeep tours, go on camel rides, or hike through canyons and mountains. Timna Valley National Park, about 25 kilometers north of Eilat, has distinctive rock formations, ancient copper mines, and a man-made lake.

Birdwatching

Eilat is on a major bird migration route between Europe and Africa. The International Birding & Research Center in Eilat provides guided tours and educational programs. During peak migration seasons in spring and fall, you can see hundreds of bird species passing through the area.

Shopping

Eilat is a free trade zone, which means you can buy goods without paying the 17% VAT that applies in the rest of Israel. The city has several shopping centers, including the Ice Mall, one of the largest in the city, which also has an indoor ice skating rink.

How to Get There

Ramon International Airport, opened in 2019, handles domestic and international flights to Eilat. If you're traveling from within Israel, you can also reach Eilat by bus or car via Route 90, which runs along the eastern border of the country. The drive from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem takes about four hours.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Eilat depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) is the hottest season, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). For milder weather, you might prefer spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These seasons also coincide with bird migration periods, making them good for birdwatching.