Red Sea Resort - Eilat

Eilat is a resort city in southern Israel, famous for its coral reefs in the Red Sea, water parks, and vibrant nightlife.

The city offers a wide range of outdoor activities and water sports. Compared to Netanya, Eilat has a busier and noisier promenade, a narrower and shorter beach with more stones, and significantly more tourists on its streets. The climate in Eilat is also quite different from that of cities along the Mediterranean coast.

A trip to Eilat for two days is worth it for its incredible Underwater Observatory Marine Park (Oceanarium), swimming above coral reefs, and tax-free shopping.

You can reach Eilat by bus No. 399 from the central bus stations in Hadera, Netanya, and Ra’anana. The fare is 72 shekels, and the journey takes about 5.5 hours, including two rest stops. The bus is comfortable and suitable for traveling with children.

Oceanarium

A visit to the Eilat Underwater Observatory Marine Park is an exciting adventure for the whole family.
Address: Coral Beach, Eilat
Ticket price: 99 shekels for adults, 79 shekels for children
Opening hours (winter, October–March): 8:00 – 16:00

It’s worth dedicating a full day to the observatory, as it offers both entertaining and educational activities. Children aged 6–14 will find it especially fascinating.

Underwater Observatory – Located 6 meters below the surface of the Red Sea, this observatory allows visitors to admire the coral reef through large windows. You’ll see countless colorful fish, corals, sea urchins, and starfish. Several guided tours are held daily, making you and your children feel like part of the underwater world, almost as if stepping into Finding Nemo.
Shark Aquarium – The largest aquarium in the Red Sea, home to various species of sharks, large fish, and rays. Guests can sit on cushions in front of a massive wall-sized viewing window. A tunnel beneath the tank allows visitors to watch sharks and rays swim overhead. Daily shark feeding shows are held twice a day.
Aquarium Halls – Multiple rooms showcase different ecosystems of the Red Sea, including rare, endangered, and dangerous marine species.
3D Whale Film – A family-friendly 20-minute 3D movie shown every hour, featuring whales that seem to swim right above your head thanks to special effects.
Sea Turtle Pool – A large outdoor pool where several sea turtles live. Twice a day, visitors can watch their feeding.
Observation Tower – Climb a narrow spiral staircase to the 23-meter-high tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the coral reef from above.
Pearl Program – An educational exhibit explaining how pearls are formed inside shells.

Visiting the Eilat Underwater Observatory is an unforgettable experience that combines fun, learning, and awe at the beauty of the underwater world.

Here are some of my recommendations for family activities in Eilat:

1. The Underwater Observatory Marine Park
This famous aquarium offers a unique look into the rich underwater world of the Red Sea. Children can see colorful fish, rays, sharks, and many other marine creatures. A highlight is the underwater observatory tower, which goes several meters below sea level and opens panoramic views of the coral reefs. The complex also hosts 3D movies about ocean life and exciting daily shows such as feeding large turtles and sharks.

2. Eilat Promenade
A perfect place for a family stroll. Starting from 9 a.m., street performers entertain kids with shows and workshops. Along the promenade you’ll also find small rides and carousels where little ones can have fun, while parents enjoy the sea views or browse the shops nearby.

3. Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
Kids will love a trip on a glass-bottom boat that lets you explore the underwater world without getting wet. During the cruise, you can watch coral reefs, exotic fish, and other Red Sea inhabitants. It’s a great way to introduce children to marine life while enjoying a sea adventure together as a family.

✨ Eilat is the perfect family vacation spot in Israel. The warm Red Sea, plenty of attractions, and the unique resort atmosphere will make your trip truly unforgettable.

Winter (December–February)
Winter in Eilat is mild and sunny. Average daytime temperatures range between +20–25°C, while at night they can drop to around +10°C. This is a great time for sightseeing, excursions, and enjoying the Red Sea, where the water temperature stays around +21°C.

Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Eilat. Daytime temperatures rise to +25–30°C, and the water warms up to +23°C. Nature blooms all around, making it an ideal season for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports.

Summer (June–August)
In summer, Eilat’s temperatures reach up to +40°C, with the Red Sea warming to about +26°C. For a comfortable stay, it’s best to relax on the beach or enjoy hotels with pools and air conditioning. Evenings become slightly cooler, perfect for strolling along the promenade.

Autumn (September–November)
Autumn in Eilat feels like an extension of summer, with a pleasant drop in heat. Daytime temperatures average around +30°C, while the water remains warm at +25°C — ideal for family vacations.

Year-round sunshine
Eilat’s weather makes it a year-round destination. With over 350 days of sunshine annually and almost no rain, it’s a perfect escape for those seeking warmth and relaxation away from the cold or the hustle of big cities.

Plan your trip to Eilat to enjoy its warm weather and stunning landscapes!

Weather in Eilat Year-Round

There is a large yacht marina in Eilat.

Beaches with coral reefs near the oceanarium

Shark tank at the Oceanarium

Carousel on the Eilat promenade

The road to Eilat through the Negev Desert

Traveling to Eilat is not just a trip to the south of Israel — it’s a real adventure through the majestic landscapes of the Negev Desert.

Egged Bus No. 399 is a direct route from Hadera to Eilat, passing through Netanya and Ra’anana. The line operates daily and makes stops in major cities such as Netanya and Be’er Sheva, allowing passengers to enjoy the diverse landscapes of Israel. The trip takes about 5 hours.

The Negev Desert covers around 60% of Israel’s territory and is a unique region with striking natural diversity. On your way to Eilat, you’ll pass by:

Makhtesh Ramon: a massive crater-like erosion formation, one of a kind in the world.
Eilat Mountains: scenic mountain ranges with reddish hues, greeting travelers as they approach Eilat.

These landscapes make the journey unforgettable and allow you to feel the grandeur of Israel’s nature.

If you are planning a trip to Eilat, Bus 399 offers a comfortable and scenic ride through some of the most beautiful parts of Israel.