Netanya
Is Netanya safe now?
Netanya remains calm and welcoming. Throughout the entire Iron Swords War, not a single rocket fell within the city limits. Life here continues as usual — tourists fill the beaches and promenades, children play everywhere, and a police patrol is constantly present on Independence Square, ensuring safety and peace of mind.
What sea is in Netanya?
Situated on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Netanya enjoys some of the warmest coastal waters in Israel — the farthest from the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean.
From July to mid-September, the sea temperature near the shore reaches +30°C (86°F), making it perfect for long swims and relaxation.
The city’s beaches are famous for their golden sand, clear turquoise water, and well-maintained promenades lined with cafés and palm trees. The Mediterranean here is ideal for swimming, coastal walks, and water sports, especially during the sunny summer months.
Netanya offers visitors a blend of safety, beauty, and leisure — an ideal destination for those seeking a serene seaside escape on one of the most picturesque coastlines in Israel.
What is wondefull in Shabbat?
Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath) begins around 4–5 p.m. on Friday and ends around 6–7 p.m. on Saturday, depending on the season and sunset time.
During Shabbat, most cafés, restaurants, shops, and public transport — including trains and buses — do not operate. Streets become quieter, and cities slow down as families gather to celebrate this sacred day of rest.
However, many attractions remain open, including:
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Public parks and beaches
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Nature reserves and zoos
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Architectural and historical sites
For visitors, Shabbat offers a unique opportunity to experience the peaceful rhythm of Israeli life, enjoy nature, or explore the outdoor landmarks that remain accessible.
If you need to travel during this time, it’s best to rent a car, walk, or use taxis and shared rides, which continue to operate in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Netanya famous for?
Discover the perfect destination for a family getaway on Israel’s Mediterranean coast!
Eleven kilometers of golden sandy beaches await you from June to November, when the sea embraces the shore with warm waves — the water temperature ranges from +26°C to +30°C.
In winter, Netanya transforms into a land of eternal spring.
Bright blossoms, the fresh scent of citrus, and the sweet taste of local strawberries and oranges fill the air, while the weather stays pleasantly mild at +20–23°C.
Whether you come to swim, stroll along the seaside promenades, or simply enjoy the sunshine, Netanya offers year-round comfort and beauty for families, couples, and travelers seeking relaxation by the sea.
Irusim Nature Reserve in Netanya
Independence Square is the city center
Every city begins with its main square — and in Netanya, that heart is Kikar Ha’Atzmaut, or Independence Square.
Watch my video to see its charming fountains, the small lotus pond, cozy benches, and café tables — all creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the very center of the city.
🕊️ History and Architecture
The square was originally designed in the 1940s as the central gathering place for Netanya’s residents and visitors. Its name commemorates Israel’s Declaration of Independence in 1948, a pivotal moment that marked the city’s rapid development.
In the 1950s, Kikar Ha’Atzmaut became a vibrant venue for public events, celebrations, and local fairs. Surrounded by cafés and shops, it quickly turned into the cultural and commercial hub of Netanya.
During the 2010s, the square underwent a major renovation, gaining modern design elements, new lighting, and multimedia screens that enhance its festive atmosphere.
Modern Life and Entertainment
Today, the square is framed by elegant hotels, including the Leonardo Plaza, and several cozy cafés. The western side opens into a beautiful staircase leading directly to the sea and Netanya’s golden beaches.
Every Saturday morning in spring and summer, the square hosts children’s activities, and in the evenings, it transforms into a dance floor for adults — all free of charge.
On holidays, Kikar Ha’Atzmaut becomes the main celebration spot in the city:
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A merry-go-round and mini-autodrome delight children,
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Music fills the air,
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Large screens display colorful videos,
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Souvenir markets and free concerts by guest artists bring joy to locals and visitors alike.
For added peace of mind, a police patrol is always present on weekends and evenings, ensuring safety for everyone enjoying the festivities.
Magnificent promenades
Every city begins with its main square — and in Netanya, that heart is Kikar Ha’Atzmaut, or Independence Square.
Watch my video to see its charming fountains, the small lotus pond, cozy benches, and café tables — all creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the very center of the city.
The square was originally designed in the 1940s as the central gathering place for Netanya’s residents and visitors. Its name commemorates Israel’s Declaration of Independence in 1948, a pivotal moment that marked the city’s rapid development.
In the 1950s, Kikar Ha’Atzmaut became a vibrant venue for public events, celebrations, and local fairs. Surrounded by cafés and shops, it quickly turned into the cultural and commercial hub of Netanya.
During the 2010s, the square underwent a major renovation, gaining modern design elements, new lighting, and multimedia screens that enhance its festive atmosphere.
Today, the square is framed by elegant hotels, including the Leonardo Plaza, and several cozy cafés. The western side opens into a beautiful staircase leading directly to the sea and Netanya’s golden beaches.
Every Saturday morning in spring and summer, the square hosts children’s activities, and in the evenings, it transforms into a dance floor for adults — all free of charge.
On holidays, Kikar Ha’Atzmaut becomes the main celebration spot in the city:
A merry-go-round and mini-autodrome delight children,
Music fills the air,
Large screens display colorful videos,
Souvenir markets and free concerts by guest artists bring joy to locals and visitors alike.
For added peace of mind, a police patrol is always present on weekends and evenings, ensuring safety for everyone enjoying the festivities.
Paragliding is a popular activity in Netanya.
One of the most exciting and photogenic activities in Netanya is paragliding over the golden beaches.
On Fridays and Saturdays, you can often spot up to three colorful paragliders gliding silently above the coastline — a breathtaking sight for beachgoers below.
Tandem Flights for Everyone
Flights are conducted in tandem with professional instructors, ensuring full safety for beginners and thrill-seekers alike.
A flight costs about 500 shekels, and the experience is recorded on video by the instructor — so you’ll take home unforgettable memories of your adventure.
This activity is popular with both tourists and locals, and it’s often given as a birthday gift or a surprise for loved ones.
Best Time to Fly
Paragliding is available from spring through autumn, typically April to October.
During winter months (November–April), strong winds may prevent flights, ensuring passenger safety.
Flying over Netanya offers spectacular views of the yellow sands, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs of Israel’s Mediterranean coast — the perfect mix of freedom, adrenaline, and beauty.
Netanya takes pride in its unique natural treasure — the Irus Nature Reserve, located in the southern part of the city.
This small but remarkable protected area is world-famous for its rare black irises (Iris atropurpurea), which bloom here every winter and transform the dunes into a living sea of flowers.
A Reserve Born to Protect Beauty
The reserve was established in the 1970s to protect the fragile sand-dune ecosystem and preserve the endemic plant species that once grew abundantly along Israel’s coastal plain.
The name “Irus” comes from the Hebrew word for “iris.” These flowers are found only in Israel, thriving in sandy soils near Netanya and a few other spots along the coast.
The Blooming Season
From January to March, the reserve bursts into color as thousands of velvety, dark-purple blossoms open under the soft winter sun.
It’s the perfect time for a nature walk and photography — a chance to witness one of Israel’s most beautiful and endangered natural phenomena.
Important Tip for Visitors
Avoid visiting the park in summer (from May to October).
Despite its beauty, the area becomes dry and harsh, with sand, thorny bushes, and desert wildlife such as snakes, lizards, and termites.
If you come in the winter months, you’ll instead find a calm, fragrant, and colorful landscape — one of the most magical spots in Netanya.
Elevator to Sironit Beach
Sironit Beach is the most popular and lively beach in Netanya, located just 300 meters from Independence Square (Kikar HaAtzmaut) — the city’s main plaza. Thanks to its central location, excellent facilities, and calm waves, it’s the perfect place for both locals and tourists to enjoy the Mediterranean.
Comfort and Safety
The beach is protected by breakwaters, creating safe swimming areas ideal for families with children.
There are cafés, freshwater showers, and foot taps for rinsing off sand.
Well-maintained toilets and changing rooms are available and regularly cleaned throughout the day.
Getting to the Beach
Since Netanya is built on cliffs, you’ll need to descend from the promenade to reach the beach.
There are two ways down:
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a wide central staircase leading straight to the sand;
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a scenic beach elevator, located slightly to the left of Independence Square.
The elevator is one of Netanya’s landmarks. It’s connected to a viewing platform that offers stunning panoramic views of the sea, cliffs, and sunsets — a perfect photo spot!
The elevator has two spacious cabins that can easily fit strollers, bicycles, and wheelchairs.
It operates daily until dusk, and on Saturdays, it runs in Shabbat mode, automatically going up and down without needing to press buttons.
At night, when the elevator closes, visitors can still access the beach via the staircase — a lovely evening walk with sea breeze and city lights.
Wingate - Olympic facilities in southern Netanya
On the southern edge of Netanya, beyond the Ir Yamin neighborhood, stands the impressive Wingate Institute, Israel’s leading national sports complex and training center for Olympic champions. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the institute is both a symbol of athletic achievement and a hub for sports education and research.
Founded in 1957, the institute was named after Orde Wingate, a British officer who supported Jewish defense forces and encouraged physical training during the British Mandate in Palestine. The Wingate Institute covers a vast area with over 30 buildings, including:
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Educational and research facilities
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Dormitories for athletes and students
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A sports hotel
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Open-air football and basketball fields
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Indoor arenas and gyms equipped with modern training gear
The institute’s mission has always been to promote sports, physical education, and athletic excellence in Israel.
Olympic-Level Swimming Complex
One of the highlights of the campus is its Olympic swimming center, featuring:
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A 50-meter indoor Olympic pool
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A 50-meter outdoor Olympic pool
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A smaller training pool for lessons and youth programs
The pools are surrounded by green courtyards, shaded sitting areas, and recreational corners for students and athletes.
Access to the swimming facilities is restricted to professional athletes and institute members, as this is Israel’s only dual Olympic-size swimming complex.
Thanks to its facilities and programs, Netanya has become Israel’s sports capital, and the Wingate Institute continues to play a vital role in nurturing the nation’s top athletes.
Netanya weather
Winter in Netanya is warm and pleasant — much milder than in Jerusalem. Most days are sunny, with daytime temperatures around +20–21°C. Occasionally, the air warms up to +24°C, and some locals even take a dip in the sea, where the water stays around +22°C in January.
On cloudy days, the temperature hovers between +18–20°C, and nights drop to +13°C.
Light rains may pass, but storms are rare — usually 2–3 per season, lasting a few days. During a storm, winds can reach gale force, tossing umbrellas and branches around the streets.
Despite the occasional rain, winter in Netanya is extraordinarily beautiful — thanks to the moisture, the coastal flowers bloom, filling the promenades with fragrance and color.
Kitesurfers continue to train all winter long, wearing wetsuits — the only time they stop is during strong winds or heavy storms.
Spring arrives suddenly — usually in late February, when temperatures can soar to +27°C almost overnight.
Though a few stormy days in March or April may bring cooler weather (+17–18°C), they rarely last more than two days.
By April, days are warm (+25–27°C), though nights remain comfortably cool (+16–18°C).
The Mediterranean Sea is still fresh, around +21–22°C, but often calm and crystal clear — perfect for peaceful swims.
In March, strawberry season begins! You can pick and taste ripe berries directly from the farms surrounding the city.
By the end of April or early May, Israel celebrates Independence Day, and from Netanya’s seaside promenades, you can watch the aerial parades over the Mediterranean — a breathtaking experience.
Summer in Netanya begins in mid-May and brings hot, dry weather. From June through August, there’s no rain, and the average temperature is +30–34°C daily.
The hottest period is from late July to August, when even nights stay warm — dropping only a few degrees.
The sea becomes delightfully warm, reaching +28–29°C, perfect for long swims and endless fun for children.
Occasionally, jellyfish drift up from Egypt — harmless but with a mild sting — so swimmers stay close to shore.
In clear summer waters, you can often see schools of small fish, adding a touch of magic to every swim.
Because of the heat, everyone carries bottled water — whether going to the beach, shops, or evening walks, as hydration is essential in the Mediterranean sun.
Autumn in Netanya feels like a gentle continuation of summer. Until the Jewish holidays — Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot — the weather remains hot, +30–33°C, and the sea stays warm (+27°C).
By October, days grow shorter, and nights become longer and fresher. On the last Saturday of October, Israel turns clocks back to winter time.
In November, temperatures drop to +24°C by day and +17°C at night.
Short rains or thunderstorms occasionally bring bright rainbows over the sea — one of Netanya’s most enchanting sights.
Migratory birds - pelicans, herons and storks
Just a 20-minute drive from Netanya toward Hadera lies the Mishmar HaSharon Reservoir, a peaceful haven that transforms into a vibrant wildlife sanctuary each year between October and March. During this time, thousands of migratory birds arrive, making it one of the best birdwatching spots in central Israel.
A Key Stop on the Global Bird Migration Route
Israel sits along one of the world’s major bird migration corridors, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.
In autumn and spring, you can observe over 500 bird species, including herons, pelicans, storks, eagles, and other raptors.
The Mishmar HaSharon Nature Area offers a variety of trails for walking and cycling, observation decks over the water, and a watchtower that provides panoramic views of the wetlands and surrounding fields.
The ponds, reeds, and calm waters create ideal resting and feeding conditions for migrating flocks — a natural spectacle that attracts both bird enthusiasts and nature photographers.
Bring binoculars and a camera to capture this breathtaking scene.
Early mornings are the best time for birdwatching, while Shabbat afternoons (12:00–14:00) tend to be busier with local visitors.
Visiting Mishmar HaSharon is a wonderful complement to a fall or winter vacation in Netanya, known for its golden beaches and coastal promenades — nature and sea just a short drive apart.
Surrounding Netanya
Uncover the hidden treasures surrounding Netanya, where every corner holds its own story and beauty.
Enjoy inspiring walks through the picturesque city of Herzliya, step into the enchanting world of Utopia Park, and wander through the ancient streets of Jaffa filled with history and charm.
Treat your children to an unforgettable encounter with a sea turtle at the Turtle Park, or relax in the healing thermal waters of Hamei Ga’ash.
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh strawberries picked straight from the field, even in the middle of winter!
Each of these destinations will become a shining highlight of your journey through Israel, offering a blend of nature, culture, and authentic experiences.
Plan your trip with us — and we’ll help make every day of your vacation truly unforgettable!
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