There's no need to be a certified diver or drag heavy, expensive equipment all the way to Eilat to enjoy the wealth of nature hiding away just below the water's surface. Trekkers, couples, and families choose to come to the lovely beaches of Israel's vacation capital and rent face masks and snorkels on the spot before entering the water to explore the vivid, living, colorful world under the sea.
Eilat is an ideal holiday for resting, relaxing, and recuperating, which also offers discount shopping, attractions, and a lively nightlife. The city's location at the northern tip of the Red Sea and its desert climate make it suitable for year-round stays, so its beaches fill up even in the winter. Eilat's beaches are crowded with visitors coming to clear their heads and relax in front of the turquoise waters of the Red Sea. Others come to enjoy aquatic activities like parasailing, surfing, kayaking, and more. The beaches offer many activities. One of the best-known – diving with snorkels – suits every age.
Snorkeling became popular soon after the city was founded. There is no need for heavy, expensive equipment to enjoy the colorful underwater cosmos existing right under the surface of the sea. You can simply grab goggles or a face mask to get a glimpse of the fascinating, colorful creatures of the Red Sea. Eilat is home to the northernmost coral reef in the world and the only one in Israel, attracting scuba divers, swimmers, and underwater photographers from all over the world.
One of the best snorkeling locations in Eilat is Coral Beach. The southern shore, about 1.5 km long, is a nature reserve and includes the northernmost coral reef in the world. Underneath the surface of the water, there is a breathtaking, vivid world, with corals, fish, and other aquatic creatures, awaiting the human visitor. This is one of the most recommended snorkeling sites in the world as well as the most suitable for underwater photography thanks to the especially clear water. Entrance to the beach is for a nominal fee. Visitors may rent snorkeling equipment on the spot.
Another good Red Sea snorkeling spot is Three Sisters. The underwater safari is located south of Lighthouse Beach on the city's southern shore. Visitors can enjoy the rich, underwater world with fish of every color of the rainbow and coral arcs resembling small caves. We recommend snorkeling to Moses Rock, the largest coral colony of the reef. Those who've never snorkeled can come to the reserve and join organized, guided snorkeling adventures.
Like the best snorkeling sites in the world – Cape Kri, Barracuda, and Yolanda Reef – most of Eilat's beaches as well as shops and stands throughout the city and the boardwalk allow you to rent and purchase snorkeling equipment, such as face masks, goggles, snorkels, and fins so you can go explore the shallow waters of the Red Sea on your own. The best snorkeling beaches are Lighthouse Beach, Princess Beach, and EAPC Beach (also called Katza Beach) along the southern shore, and Kioski Beach, Seagull Beach, and Thai Beach along the northern shore. In fact, any beach you choose to visit during your Eilat holiday ensures an unforgettable snorkeling experience.