Eilat

אילת

Israel's southernmost coastal city and primary resort destination on the Red Sea, known for world-class diving, snorkeling, and water sports. The vibrant downtown features restaurants, shops, and hotels clustered around the waterfront with easy access to pristine coral reefs just offshore.

Things to do

• Coral World Aquarium — Explore Red Sea marine life through underwater observatory tunnels and touch pools featuring tropical fish, sharks, and sea turtles.
• Scuba Diving at the Reef — Dive pristine coral reefs just offshore with abundant tropical fish, rays, and occasional reef sharks in crystal-clear waters.
• Snorkeling at Coral Beach — Wade directly into shallow coral gardens from the sandy beach to see colorful reef fish and living corals without equipment rental.
• Eilat Municipal Beach — Relax on the main public beach with organized watersports including parasailing, jet skis, and paddleboards along the waterfront promenade.
• Desert Jeep Safari — Experience the Negev Desert landscape with guided 4x4 tours to canyons, red rock formations, and Bedouin communities outside the city.
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours — View coral reefs and marine life from a submersed viewing chamber without getting wet, ideal for families and non-swimmers.

Food to try

• Red Sea Fish Grilled Fresh — Daily-caught grouper, sea bream, or snapper grilled whole with lemon and olive oil, a signature coastal preparation at waterfront restaurants.
• Hummus and Tahini Mezze — Creamy chickpea puree and sesame paste served with warm pita bread and fresh vegetables, staple Middle Eastern appetizers found throughout the city.
• Shakshuka — Poached eggs in spiced tomato and pepper sauce traditionally served for breakfast with crusty bread for dipping.
• St. Peter's Fish (Tilapia) — Whole fish native to the Red Sea, typically pan-fried or baked with herbs and served with rice or vegetables at local restaurants.
• Fresh Seafood Buffets — All-you-can-eat spreads at major hotels featuring grilled prawns, calamari, fish kebabs, and Mediterranean salads with beachfront views.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Heat and Sun — Eilat's intense desert sun and extreme heat require high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and midday breaks indoors; many locals rest during early afternoon hours.
• Modest Dress Away from Beach — While beachwear is acceptable at the seafront, cover shoulders and knees when visiting restaurants, shops, and public areas off the beach.
• Hebrew and English Widely Spoken — Israeli tourism infrastructure means English is common in hotels and restaurants, but learning basic Hebrew phrases shows respect and enhances interactions with locals.
• Shabbat Considerations — Many businesses close Friday evening through Saturday for the Jewish Sabbath; plan accordingly and note that Friday afternoons are busier as locals prepare for the holiday.