Yesterday, if you didn’t notice, was the beginning of the bathing season in Israel. Oh yes!
Never mind that the beaches have been full every weekend for the last few weeks and that tourists have been splashing around in the Mediterranean and Red Sea for even longer, the beaches are officially open! Only now can you get screamed at by lifeguards and get asked to cough up some cash to access your favourite beach (not all beaches, thankfully). Could be the perfect time to read our guide to Tel Aviv beaches.
That’s right, all 137 of Israel’s official beaches (and yes, I’ve done a pretty good job of visiting most of them, more on that to come) have opened their sandy doors, not to be officially closed until mid-October. If you live in Akko however, up on the northern coast, you’re going to have to wait a bit longer thanks to the discovery of some gorgeous pollution.
Most beaches are supposed to be free to access, though some sneaky local authorities have got round this by charging for parking. But there are just so many free options out there you really shouldn’t have to pay to access any of Israel’s beaches. Don’t worry, we’ll be keeping track of the best beaches and any rogue beaches that might be trying it on.
Wherever you end up, enjoy yourselves, drink lots of water (and beer) and splash the sunscreen on. And watch out for those undercurrents, they can be lethal (44 people drowned off Israel’s beaches in 2008).
