Things To Do
in Eilat
Eilat is Israel's southern resort city, perched on the Red Sea at the edge of the Arabah desert. It blends pristine beaches, coral-filled waters, and a modern marina with year-round sun. Its clear, calm seas make it a premier destination for snorkeling, diving, and family-friendly beach days.
Surrounded by desert scenery and a short ride from Jordan and Egypt, Eilat thrives as a compact gateway to adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Eilat, where you can enjoy fresh Israeli salad and shakshuka. Afterward, wander through the scenic streets of Eilat's historic center, visiting the vibrant local markets and stores. Be sure to stop by the Eilat Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Head to the Coral Beach Nature Reserve for some sun and snorkeling among the stunning coral reefs. Enjoy a light lunch at a beachside shack, sampling local seafood delicacies while soaking in the beautiful views of the Red Sea. Spend the afternoon exploring the underwater marvels, keeping an eye out for colorful fish and unique marine life.
As the sun sets over the Red Sea, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Eilat's waterfront restaurants, savoring fresh fish and traditional Middle Eastern dishes. After dinner, take a stroll along the promenade, where you can admire the vibrant nightlife and the beautiful lights reflecting off the water. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for live music or a relaxing drink under the stars.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Rent some snorkeling gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore the beautiful coral reefs just off the shore. Alternatively, you can take a paddleboard lesson to enjoy the calm sea while getting a workout.
After a morning of beach activities, grab lunch at a nearby beach café offering refreshing smoothies and light bites. Spend your afternoon trying out thrilling water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, feeling the adrenaline rush as you glide over the waves. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, unwind on the beach with a good book and soak up the sun.
As twilight falls, visit the Eilat Marina where you can find a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Enjoy a seafood feast while watching the boats sail in and out of the harbor under the colorful evening sky. After dinner, you can take a romantic sunset cruise to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Red Sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer (mid-range) | $5-8 |
| 🧭Taxi ride (short distance) | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Year-round sunshine and easy access to water-based activities
- Beautiful desert landscapes and national parks nearby
- Family-friendly beaches and calm seas
- Compact city with easy-to-navigate layout
- Very hot summers and limited shade in peak heat
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities compared to Tel Aviv
- Some attractions can be crowded during peak season
- Prices can be higher in resort areas
- "Shalom" - Hello / Peace
- "Toda" - Thank you
- "Sliḥa" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Bevakasha" - Please / You're welcome
- "Eifo ha-mis'ada?" - Where is the restaurant?
- "Lehitra'ot" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Eilat
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfront stretch with palm trees, colorful boats, and sunset reflections on the Red Sea.
Vibrant coral reefs and turquoise waters ideal for underwater and above-water photography.
Boat-accessible area where you can photograph dolphins in natural habitat and swimmers.
Towering rock formations and ancient copper mines set against arid desert skies.
Wind-swept views of takeoffs and landings with mountains as a backdrop.
Food in Eilat
Eilat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, a staple breakfast or light dinner.
Must-Try!
Fragrant fish rice dish with caramelized onions and toasted spices.
Fresh whole fish simply grilled with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.
Creamy chickpea dip served hot with warm pita and toppings.
Fried chickpea balls served with fresh vegetables and tahini.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls offering fresh seafood, olives, spices, and quick bites like falafel and shawarma.
Casual stalls along the promenade offering kebabs, shawarma, and kebab plates with views of the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone; a kiss on both cheeks is typical among friends and family. Say hello with Shalom.
Keep voices calm in public spaces, especially near religious or sacred sites; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; bargaining is common in markets but done politely.
Safety
Tipping in Eilat
Ensure a smooth experience
In Israel, a tip of 10–15% at restaurants is common if service is not included. Optional tips for good service in bars, taxis, and tours.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; cash is handy for markets and small stalls. ATMs are common in city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect very hot days, often over 100°F (38°C). Seek shade, hydrate, and plan water-based activities early or late in the day. Sea temperatures are warm and visibility remains excellent for snorkeling.
Milder temperatures around 60–70°F (15–21°C); comfortable for outdoor exploration and snorkeling. Nights can be chilly, so bring layers.
Pleasant temperatures in the 70s–80s°F (20s–low 30s°C); ideal for hiking in the surrounding deserts and beaches.
Warm days and cooler evenings; great for outdoor activities and diving visibility remains good.
Eilat at Night
Hiking in Eilat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hikes through sculpted sandstone formations, with ancient copper-mining sites.
Panoramic desert views from rocky overlooks.
Short scenic desert hikes with dramatic red rock formations near Eilat.
Airports
How to reach Eilat by plane.
New, modern airport southwest of Eilat, with domestic and international flights; quick drive to the city.
Former international gateway nearby; used for charter and some flights; many travelers now use Ramon instead.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-term Israeli residents, seasonal workers, and expatriates. The city also hosts a steady stream of visitors from Europe and North America.
A diverse international mix, with many visitors from Russia, the UK, Germany, and Israel’s own population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Red Sea offers some of the most accessible reefs and wrecks near Eilat.
Consistent sea breezes make this a favorite water sport.
The surrounding Arava desert has dramatic canyons and climbs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eilat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on mezze plates, hummus, falafel, salads, and grilled vegetables; ask for olive oil dressing and starches like rice or potatoes to accompany meals.