Ein Bokek
עין בוקק
Israel's main Dead Sea resort town offering spa facilities, hotels, and direct access to the Dead Sea's therapeutic waters and mineral-rich mud treatments. This developed coastal area combines relaxation with wellness tourism, featuring multiple resorts and the chance to experience the Dead Sea's famous floating experience.
Things to do
- Float in the Dead Sea — Experience the unique buoyancy of the Dead Sea's mineral-saturated waters where you naturally float without effort, located directly in front of the resort beaches.
- Dead Sea Mud Treatments — Apply the therapeutic black mineral mud found on the Dead Sea shores to your skin, known for its healing and rejuvenating properties, available at multiple resort spas.
- Visit Ein Bokek Promenade — Stroll along the waterfront walkway connecting the resort hotels with views of the Dead Sea and access to public beaches and spa facilities.
- Spa and Wellness Centers — Indulge in massages, salt scrubs, and mineral water treatments at resort spas that utilize the region's natural mineral resources for therapeutic benefits.
- Hike to Bokek Stream — Trek along the scenic Bokek Stream canyon with freshwater pools and desert landscape views, offering a contrast to the Dead Sea experience.
- Sunrise at the Dead Sea Beach — Watch the sunrise over the Jordanian mountains from Ein Bokek's eastern beach, a peaceful start to the day before crowds arrive.
Food to try
- Falafel and Hummus — Fresh deep-fried chickpea fritters served with creamy chickpea paste and tahini, widely available at resort restaurants and local eateries throughout Ein Bokek.
- Shakshuka — Eggs poached in spiced tomato and pepper sauce, a traditional Israeli breakfast dish commonly served in resort dining facilities.
- Grilled Fish from the Dead Sea Region — Fresh fish preparations, typically tilapia or St. Peter's fish, grilled with Mediterranean herbs and lemon, featured at waterfront resort restaurants.
- Israeli Salad — Finely chopped fresh vegetables including tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers dressed with olive oil and lemon, served as a side with most meals in the region.
- Mineral Water Spa Cuisine — Health-focused light meals and smoothies prepared at resort wellness centers using locally sourced ingredients and mineral-rich water.
Local customs & good to know
- Modest Swimwear in Public Areas — While the resort beaches are more relaxed, wear modest swimwear when visiting shared public spaces and respect conservative dress norms in non-resort areas.
- Protect Your Eyes and Open Wounds — The Dead Sea's high salt concentration stings sensitive areas; bring goggles, avoid touching your face, and keep any cuts or scrapes covered before entering the water.
- Stay Hydrated in Extreme Heat — Ein Bokek sits in one of the world's hottest and lowest regions; drink water constantly throughout the day, use high SPF sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
- Hebrew and English Prevalence — Most resort staff speak English and Hebrew; basic Hebrew greetings and phrases are appreciated, though English is widely understood in tourist-focused establishments.