Eilat, Israel

🏜️ Welcome to Eilat – Israel’s Red Sea Jewel

Tucked in Israel’s southernmost tip, Eilat is a dazzling resort city where the Negev desert meets the Red Sea. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, luxury hotels, and tax-free shopping, Eilat is a year-round paradise for divers, beach lovers, and sun-seekers.


📍 Top Attractions in Eilat

🐠 Coral Beach Nature Reserve

Swim or snorkel in one of the most colorful and accessible coral reefs in the world. Expect to see clownfish, parrotfish, and vibrant corals just meters from the shore.

🧜‍♀️ Dolphin Reef

A serene eco-friendly site where you can swim and dive with dolphins in their natural habitat. Relax in tree-shaded hammocks, wooden decks, and tranquil lagoons.

🌋 Timna Park

A surreal desert landscape 25 km north of Eilat featuring red sandstone formations, ancient copper mines, and a replica of the biblical Tabernacle. Great for hiking and photography.

🪸 Underwater Observatory Marine Park

Israel’s largest public aquarium with a 360-degree view of the Red Sea’s depths. Includes shark tanks, turtle pools, and a rare look at coral life from below the surface.

🎢 Ice Mall

A giant dome-shaped shopping and entertainment complex with an indoor ice skating rink—yes, in the desert! Great for families and tax-free shopping.


🍽️ Must-Try Local Cuisine

Eilat’s cuisine is a fusion of Israeli, Middle Eastern, and North African flavors:

  • Shakshuka – Spiced tomato and egg skillet

  • Grilled Red Sea Fish – Especially denise and sea bream

  • Malabi – Rosewater milk pudding with coconut and nuts

  • Falafel & Hummus Platters – A local staple with many variations

Top Restaurants:

  • The Last Refuge – Best seafood with sea views

  • BarBeach – Beachfront dining with a chill vibe

  • 5th Avenue – Elegant fusion cuisine with cocktails


🛍️ Where to Shop in Eilat

💰 Tax-Free Heaven
Eilat is Israel’s only VAT-free zone, making shopping significantly cheaper.

  • Ice Mall – Big-name brands and local goods

  • Mall Hayam – Centrally located by the beach

  • Boardwalk Markets – Great for souvenirs, jewelry, and beachwear


🏨 Where to Stay

  • Herods Boutique Eilat – Stylish luxury with private beach

  • Dan Eilat – Classic 5-star resort with pools and spa

  • Isrotel Yam Suf – Excellent for divers and families

  • Abraham Eilat – Budget-friendly with a social hostel vibe


🚤 Activities & Adventure

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling at Coral Beach or Dolphin Reef

  • Windsurfing and parasailing in the Red Sea

  • Jeep safaris into the Eilat Mountains

  • Sunset yacht cruises along the Jordanian and Egyptian coastlines


🎉 Events & Festivals

  • 🎶 Red Sea Jazz Festival (February & August) – International artists perform beachside

  • 🏊 Desert Marathon Eilat (November) – A scenic run through mountains and sea

  • 🎆 Eilat Pride Festival – One of the most colorful LGBTQ+ celebrations in Israel


🌤️ Best Time to Visit

  • October to April – Ideal weather (18–28°C), perfect for outdoor and underwater activities

  • Summer (June–August) can hit 40°C+ but is great for nightlife and poolside lounging


💡 Travel Tips

  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral ecosystems

  • No tax refund needed – It’s already tax-free!

  • Currency: Israeli Shekel (NIS)

  • Language: Hebrew (English widely spoken)

  • Border Crossings Nearby: To Egypt (Taba) and Jordan (Aqaba)


Traveler Ratings (Out of 10)

Category Rating ⭐
Beaches & Water 10/10
Adventure & Nature 9/10
Food & Dining 8.5/10
Shopping 9.5/10
Accessibility 8/10
Overall Experience 9/10