A Day at the Beach

One of our favorite places to visit in Israel is the seashore. The Mediterranean laps the western side of Israel along the western boundary of the country, from the Negev to the border with Lebanon.

The Boardwalk in Haifa, Israel

The seacoast is enjoyed by many people because the climate of Israel is warm most of the year to encourage people to come out and enjoy the beach.

A Sparrow on the Beach

The beaches in Israel are of a light sand the length of the Mediterranean coast. Many shells can be found on the beaches, especially in the south. The northern beaches contain more smooth rocks. In the area around Caesarea it can be seen how some of the sand is brought from the trade winds over the Sahara Desert to build the beaches.

Mount Carmel rises above Dado Beach

The beach around Haifa rests beneath the heights of Mount Carmel. In all probability the Prophet Elijah not only came west on Mount Carmel to look for clouds, but he also dipped his feet into the Mediterranean. There is a cave in Haifa near the shore that is called Elijah’s Cave.

Information Sign at the Haifa Beach

Israel has several protective sea ports. The first and oldest of the parts is at Yafo (Joppa) where Jonah took a ship and went west to escape God. The port was created by a small indention in the coast, and a roc barrier to the south. The view across this inlet from Yafo to Tel Aviv is quite beautiful.

Entrance to the Carmel Beach in Haifa

A sign at the top of Mt. Carmel says that the only place in Israel you can look north across the Mediterranean Sea is in Haifa. The seacoast in this part of Haifa is a huge seaport. From the top of the mountain cargo ships from around the world can be seen attempting to get in and to deliver their cargo.

Looking North from the top of Mount Carmel

The northern seacoast of Israel can be easily observed from the top of Mount Carmel from Haifa to Akhziv National Park, which borders Lebanon. This is a beautiful area which contains some rock crevices and underwater caves produced by the waves striking the limestone cliffs. The area is called Rosh Hanikra.

Shelters along the beach in Haifa

The main beaches in Israel like many other peaches around the world. There are wide boardwalks which divide the beaches from the shops. Along the beaches there are shelters, monuments, and plenty of space to spread a towel. There are many restaurants and other shops along the boardwalk, and also bathrooms where people can get changed.

A Fresh water Swimming place

Israel’s beaches are filled with people of all ages from children to senior adults all playing in the waves strolling the beaches picking up seashells, surfing, and swimming.