Between the desert mountains and the shimmering waters of the Red Sea, at the most southern point of Israel lies Eilat, a paradise for both travelers and vacation seekers. Let’s see what Eilat has to offer!
1. Explore the Coral Beach Nature Reserve
Eilat is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, and the Coral Beach Nature Reserve is the perfect spot to experience this natural beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, the clear waters reveal an incredible array of marine life, including vibrant coral formations, tropical fish, and even sea turtles.
Insider Tip: Early mornings provide the best visibility for snorkeling, and you can rent equipment on-site!
2. Go Snorkeling and Diving in the Red Sea
The Red Sea is one of the world’s top diving destinations, and Eilat offers fantastic opportunities for both beginner and experienced divers. Dive schools around the city provide guided dives and certifications.
Top Sites:
- The Satil Wreck: A sunken navy ship now home to marine life.
- The “Japanese Gardens”: Beautiful views of marine biodiversity suitable for all diving levels.
3. Visit the Underwater Observatory Marine Park המצפה התת ימי
For those who prefer staying dry, the Underwater Observatory Marine Park is a must-see. It offers a close-up view of the rich marine life of the Red Sea without having to dive. The observatory features underwater exhibits, including a shark tank, coral exhibits, and a massive aquarium housing exotic species.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the glass-bottom boat tour for an immersive marine experience.
4. Take a Desert Jeep Tour
For a change of scenery, head into the Eilat Mountains on an exciting desert jeep tour. This adventure takes you through the rugged landscape of the Negev Desert, where you’ll explore ancient geological formations, wildlife, and panoramic views over the Red Sea.
Bonus: Sunset tours are spectacular and offer a chance to see the desert bathed in golden light.
5. Hiking in the Eilat Mountains
Nature enthusiasts can explore the beauty of the desert on foot. The Eilat Mountains Nature Reserve offers several well-marked hiking trails, varying from easy walks to challenging treks. Hiking here offers stunning views of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, with the Red Sea as the backdrop.
Recommended Trails:
- Mount Shlomo: A moderate hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding countries.
- Red Canyon: A shorter, family-friendly trail showcasing red rock formations and narrow passageways.
6. Relax at Dolphin Reef
For a more relaxed experience, visit Eilat’s Dolphin Reef, a unique ecological site where you can interact with dolphins in their natural habitat. Unlike traditional marine parks, the dolphins here are free to come and go as they please. Visitors can snorkel or dive with the dolphins or simply enjoy the tranquil beachfront setting.
Insider Tip: Book a spa treatment at Dolphin Reef’s relaxation pools, which are nestled in the midst of nature.
7. Eilat’s Nightlife and Dining Scene
Eilat isn’t just about daytime adventures. The city offers a vibrant nightlife and dining scene. Whether you prefer a laid-back beach bar or a lively nightclub, there’s something for everyone. For dining, Eilat offers everything from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants, with fresh seafood being a highlight.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Fresh Red Sea Fish: Grilled to perfection and often served with local herbs and spices.
- Shakshuka: A traditional Israeli dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for breakfast.
8. Day Trips to Timna Park
A short drive from Eilat, Timna Park offers a fascinating day trip into the desert. The park is home to incredible geological formations, ancient copper mines, and stunning desert landscapes. Highlights include the Mushroom rock formation and King Solomon’s Pillars.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike or take a guided tour to fully explore the park’s many attractions.
9. Water Sports Paradise
Eilat is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and ideal weather conditions year-round. Aside from snorleling and Scuba diving which we mentioned. You can also find more thrill-seekers acitivies like: windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet skiing are popular options, with equipment rentals and lessons available along the coastline. There’s also the famous Banana boat ride for the brave ones.
One more Selling Point- Tax Free Zone
Eilat is designated as a tax-free zone, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and shoppers. The city offers VAT (Value Added Tax) exemptions, which means visitors can enjoy duty-free shopping on a wide range of products, from electronics to fashion and luxury items. This exemption applies to goods and services within the city, allowing tourists to save on purchases compared to other regions of Israel, where VAT is typically around 17%. So now you can go to Eilta’s shopping malls and local markets and spend like there’s no tomorrow (Just kidding).
Visit Eilat and Let Us Know How it Was!
Eilat offers a unique mix of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. If you haven’t been yet, and like to dive in the Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters, hike through the Eilat Mountains, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife, any time of the year is a good time. We didn’t mention that you can also easily visit Jordan and Egypt from Eilat so that is also something worth considering.
Don’t forget to let us know in the comments how it was.
FAQ
The best time to visit Eilat largely depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown:
1. October to April (Fall to Spring): Best Time for Comfortable Weather
Why it’s great: These months offer mild temperatures, typically ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), making outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, hiking, and exploring the desert much more enjoyable.
Perfect for: Those who want to avoid the intense summer heat but still enjoy beach days and water activities. This period is also ideal for desert adventures, as the temperatures are cooler.
Drawbacks: This is the high tourist season, so hotels and attractions can be more crowded, and
prices may be higher, especially during holiday periods like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Passover.
2. May to September (Summer): Best Time for Beach Lovers
Why it’s great: Eilat is known for its hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). However, the city is famous for its beach resorts, and the warm waters of the Red Sea are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving during these months.
Perfect for: Travelers who enjoy water sports and want to spend time at the beach. It’s also a less crowded period, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter trip.
Drawbacks: The intense heat can make activities like hiking and sightseeing in the desert uncomfortable, and midday outdoor activities should be avoided.
3. Special Events and Festivals
Red Sea Jazz Festival (Usually in February & August): If you’re a music lover, visiting during this festival allows you to enjoy world-class jazz performances in a stunning seaside setting.
Eilat’s name has historical and biblical origins. It is believed to be derived from the ancient Hebrew word “Elath” or “Eloth”, which appears in the Bible. The city of Eilat was an important location during biblical times and is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament.
Biblical Reference: Eilat is mentioned in the Bible as part of the ancient Kingdom of Edom and later as a site during King Solomon’s reign, where ships set out from a port in Eilat to trade with distant lands.
Meaning: While the exact meaning of “Eilat” is debated, some scholars suggest it could be related to the Hebrew word for terebinth tree, which is a type of tree that once grew in the region.
Eilat’s strategic location as a port city on the Red Sea has made it an important area throughout history, both for trade and military purposes.