When one thinks of Israel, the mind automatically goes to sand. Desert or beach, Israel is known for its miles of sand. From the top of Israel to the bottom, here are the best beaches in Israel.

 

Nahariya Beaches

In the very north of Israel, you will find the beautiful beaches of Nahariya. Don’t expect too much soft sand, though. Nahariya beaches have rocks in their gorgeous, clear waters. Nahariya is the quintessential beach town, including stores for buying beachwear, flip flops, and sunscreen.

Caesarea Beaches

Caesarea beaches are famous for their proximity to the ruins of an ancient Herodian city. Enjoy sitting in the old amphitheater that is used for shows all summer long. Take in a golf game at Israel’s only full-size golf course.

Netanya Beaches

Netanya boast the beaches with the softest sand. Enjoy the promenade (Tayelet): during the day run in and out of the sprinklers, and at night, take a stroll among the jewelry and craft stands. Whatever time of day you visit Netanya if the right time as the European–style restaurants you’ll find there are unique and special.

 

Tel Aviv Beaches

Tel Aviv is famous for its beaches, and that’s a good enough reason to visit. There are public beaches along almost the entire length of Tel Aviv for your swimming and tanning pleasure. Don’t forget to cool off in the shade on the promenade or play matkot (a game of volleying a ball with paddles) with a friend.

Dead Sea Beaches

The beaches in the Dead Sea have something that the other beaches in Israel don’t. Their water isn’t cool—it’s warm and sometimes even hot. And the water in the Dead Sea can hardly even be called water. It is full of minerals that have healing powers against all kinds of skin conditions and joint maladies. Enjoy a mud bath and take some pictures!

Eilat Beaches

Eilat is located on the southernmost tip of Israel. Its water sports are world famous as is its year-round mild climate. There, you will enjoy relaxing on the beach or taking a pontoon boat out for a spin. You can climb into the Red Canyon or go shopping, duty free, in one of the nearby malls. Go swimming with the dolphins or visit the Underwater Observatory.

If you are going to be traveling all over the country, it’s best to use a car rental Israel service so you won’t have to worry about wasting time on public transportation.