Eilat's Ultimate Guide: Top Activities from Red Sea Diving to Negev Desert Adventures
Nestled between the copper-hued rocks of the Negev Desert and the vibrant, glowing corals of the Red Sea, Eilat holds a prime spot at Israel's southernmost tip. This lively resort city buzzes with energy, offering some of the region's premier diving and snorkeling experiences beneath its vibrant surface.
Historically a shipping port since King Solomon's era and developed into a city in the late 1950s, Eilat attracts Israeli families with affordable beach vacations, tax-free shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Yet it also reveals serene, bohemian pockets reminiscent of its 1970s hippie vibe.
Explore Bedouin attractions, desert hiking trails, world-class diving, and nearby wonders like the Dead Sea or Petra in Jordan. Year-round warm weather ensures ample sunshine, even in winter. Ramon International Airport opened in 2019, boosting connectivity, while thousands of new hotel rooms have elevated the stay options—making now the perfect time to visit before it gets even busier.
Dive into the Red Sea
The Gulf of Eilat's calm, temperate waters, averaging 23°C, draw snorkelers and divers year-round. Home to over 2,500 species—including parrotfish, butterflyfish, lionfish, turtles, and occasional whale sharks—it teems with marine life.
Snorkel at Coral Beach Nature Reserve for its protected reef with colorful corals in yellow, lime green, and fuchsia. For a quieter, local-favorite spot, head to Migdalor Beach near the Underwater Observatory, where vibrant fish schools and exotic flora thrive in crystal-clear waters.
Divers of all levels will love sites like the exotic Japanese Gardens in the southern reserve and the Satil navy missile shipwreck at 24m depth, with operators available throughout the resort.
Enjoy an Underwater Massage at Dolphin Reef
At Dolphin Reef's Stalbet Al Hamayim ('Chilling On The Water'), three indoor heated saltwater pools offer a unique escape. Relax on trendy daybeds amid bamboo and cocktails, but the star is the underwater massage: therapists guide you through warm waters with soothing music and gentle movements for ultimate relaxation.
Explore the Eilat Mountains Desert
Eilat's surrounding caramel-colored mountains and vast valleys offer profound silence just minutes from the coast. Camel Ranch provides sunset camel treks, while Jeep See Eilat delivers thrilling 4WD adventures to stunning viewpoints with views of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
Hike Timna Park's Ancient Formations and Rock Art
25km north, Timna Park spans 15,000 acres with the world's oldest copper mine (10th century BC). Discover 10,000 mining holes, prehistoric carvings, Solomon’s Pillars, and Mushroom Rock amid Mars-like trails. Enjoy guided hikes, night walks, concerts, and festivals.
Taste Negev Desert Wines
The Negev's wine route produces soft, low-acidity wines. Visit family-run Carmey Avdat Farm, on a 1,500-year-old site once exporting to Rome. Tour ancient terraces yielding cabernet, sauvignon blanc, merlot, and kosher wines; stay overnight for authentic agro-tourism.
Gaze into Ramon Crater
Israel's 'Grand Canyon,' the 400-million-year-old Ramon Crater (28 miles long, 5 miles wide) awes with golden deserts. Explore by horse, foot, jeep, or bike, or visit the Makhtesh Ramon Visitor Centre for panoramic views.
Discover the Middle East's Largest Aquarium
Coral World Underwater Observatory Marine Park features a 360-degree sea chamber, turtle and shark pools, 40 fish tanks, bioluminescent exhibits, and immersive VR experiences.
Laura French visited Eilat with support from the Israel Government Tourist Office. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies for positive coverage.
