The Best Beaches in Tel Aviv

A Comprehensive Guide to Tel Aviv Beaches

Revised and Updated - March 2024

Exploring The Beaches of Tel Aviv

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Tel Aviv’s coastline is a magnet for travelers from all around the world. With more than a dozen designated beaches stretching along 14 kilometers (9 miles), Tel Aviv offers its visitors a diversity of breathtaking beaches, each having a slightly different atmosphere and catering to different preferences. Whether you are a parent in search of shallow waters suitable for your children, a dog owner seeking designated pet-friendly zones for your dog, or a surfer chasing the perfect wave, Tel Aviv beaches have something for you.

Travelers looking for a quieter beachside experience away from the crowds and the vibrant energy of the big city, can venture north or south from Tel Aviv along the coastline. Within a short distance from the bustling city, these areas reveal hidden gems of even more beautiful beaches, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Further down you will find my recommended beaches outside of Tel Aviv.

I created this comprehensive guide to help you become familiar with the various beaches in and around Tel Aviv. With each beach possessing its own distinct charm and atmosphere, choosing the perfect beach for you is key for an exceptional experience. I am confident that this guide will prove invaluable in planning your unforgettable vacation along the breathtaking shores of Tel Aviv.

When is The Best Time to Visit Tel Aviv?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and sunshine, making them ideal times to explore the coast. In spring, temperatures range from around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while autumn temperatures range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). In summer (June-August), temperatures soar, creating hot and humid conditions, which might not be suitable for everyone. Expect temperatures to range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) during this season. However, it’s also a vibrant time when the coastline buzzes with energy and various water activities. Conversely, winter (December-February) tends to be cooler with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) and can bring occasional rain showers and storms, but it offers a quieter ambiance, more suitable for those wishing to explore cultural and historical sites without the crowds.

The Best Beaches in Tel Aviv:

Gordon Beach - Best Israeli Beach Experience

Location: In the heart of Tel Aviv, at the end of Gordon street and next to the nearby Gordon swimming pool.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Gordon Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Tel Aviv, offering a wide range of amenities including volleyball courts, open-air gym equipment, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Renowned for its lively atmosphere and pristine sands, it attracts sun-seekers, surfers, and beach volleyball enthusiasts alike. With its iconic umbrellas dotting the shoreline, the beach exudes a distinctive local beach culture. Gordon Beach’s bustling promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, providing plenty opportunities for visitors to indulge in refreshments and seaside delights.
Tips for Visitors: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons. Consider renting a sunbed or umbrella for added comfort. The beach can get crowded, so be mindful of your belongings.

Frishman Beach - Best For Beach Volleyball

Location: Just south of Gordon Beach, stretching between the end of Gordon street and Bograshov Streets.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Much like the neighboring Gordon Beach, Frishman Beach is a popular hub for both locals and tourists alike, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports. With its lively promenade lined with cafes, bars, and shops, visitors can enjoy a vibrant beachfront experience while taking in stunning views of the sea and the city skyline.
Tips for Visitors: Arrive early to find a good spot. The beach is family-friendly and ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Hilton Beach - Tel Aviv's Unofficial Gay Beach

Location: Near the Hilton Hotel, just north of the Tel Aviv Marina.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Popular among young crowds and surfers, Hilton Beach has a vibrant atmosphere. Commonly known as the gay beach of Tel Aviv, it is celebrated for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity, offering a welcoming environment for all. Adjacent to the designated beach area lies a popular off-leash dog-friendly zone, drawing in dog owners seeking a coastal retreat for their pets.
Tips for Visitors: This beach is renowned for its surfing conditions, so consider trying your hand at the sport or simply enjoy watching the surfers in action. Hilton Beach is also a great spot for socializing and meeting new people.

Jerusalem Beach - Best For Enjoying a Beach Day in The City

Location: Centrally located on Tel Aviv’s coastline at the end of Allenby street, in front of the opera tower.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: This lively beach is popular with young locals and tourists. While it may not have the fanciest facilities, it offers a vibrant atmosphere with sunbathers, beach volleyball players, and swimmers enjoying the shallow turquoise water. Public restrooms, a cafe serving local specialties, and a beachside promenade stretching all the way to Jaffa add to the convenience and charm of this central Tel Aviv beach.
Tips for Visitors: Jerusalem beach is family-friendly and ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply spending a peaceful day by the sea. Consider renting a sunbed or umbrella for added comfort.

Alma Beach (Charles Clore Beach) - Best Laid Back Atmosphere

Location: Close to the south end of Tel Aviv’s promenade, near the Charles Clore Park and Etzel museum.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Offers a more laid-back escape with a low-key atmosphere and fewer tourists. Unlike other beaches, Alma Beach skips the sunbeds and lifeguards for a more natural vibe. Frequented by dog owners (with a designated off-leash zone), families, and young crowds, Alma Beach boasts stunning views of Jaffa’s ancient port and offers a relaxed atmosphere to soak up the sun, watch surfers catch waves, or grab a casual bite and drink at the nearby kiosk.
Tips for Visitors: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore and bring your camera for the perfect sunset photographs.

HaTzuk Beach (The Cliff Beach) - Best Wheelchair Accessibility

Location: Tel Aviv’s northernmost beach located south of Herzliya.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Known for its rocky formations and cliffs, Hatzuk Beach is a peaceful stretch of soft sandy beach away from the city’s usual buzz. Backed by grassy areas and known for its cleanliness, it attracts families, water sport enthusiasts, and those seeking a quieter experience. Importantly, Hatzuk Beach is also wheelchair-accessible, making it a great option for visitors with disabilities. There are public amenities like showers, courts, a children’s playground as well as designated zones for surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Tips for Visitors: Explore the rocky coastline and enjoy the views. Be cautious when swimming due to the rocky terrain.

Metzitzim Beach - Best For Families With Children

Location: Just next to the busy Tel Aviv Port.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Metzizim Beach provides calm, shallow waters ideal for young swimmers. This beach earns high marks for cleanliness and offers a variety of amenities including volleyball courts, a restaurant, a beach library for bookworms, and accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Its location near the bustling Tel Aviv Port, balances relaxation on the sand with easy access to many shops and restaurants.
Tips for Visitors: The calm waters and family-friendly amenities make it a perfect choice for families. Consider bringing snacks for a beach picnic.

Tel Baruch Beach - Best For a Beach Day Away From The City Center

Location: Situated further north of Tel Aviv port, close to the old Reading power station.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Tel Baruch Beach offers a quieter beach experience away from the city center. Sheltered by a breakwater for calmer waves, it’s a favorite for families with young children. Amenities like showers, a restaurant with outdoor seating, and an exercise area cater to comfort and activity. While the northern section has a less desirable reputation at night, the daytime scene at Tel Baruch Beach is all about sun, sand, and family fun. The beach has a designated off-leash section where dogs are allowed, providing an opportunity for dog owners to enjoy the beach with their pets.
Tips for Visitors: Ideal for dog-lovers and families with children seeking a peaceful beach day away from the busy city center.

Givat Aliya Beach - Best For Dog Owners and Dog Lovers

Location: In south Jaffa, near its border with the city of Bat Yam.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Tel Aviv’s southernmost beach, offers a unique blend of nature and urban energy. The beach itself caters to a mixed crowd, with families enjoying the calm shallows in the north and a younger, bohemian vibe in the south. Sunbathers sprawl on the soft sand, while surfers catch waves and beachgoers refuel at a beachfront restaurant. With its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, Givat Aliya Beach offers a charming escape to those staying at Jaffa. It is also a popular beach among dog owners as it offers a spacious area for dogs to run off-leash and play freely.
Tips for Visitors: Be mindful of other beachgoers and their pets. Ensure that your dog is under control and well-behaved. Bring water and waste bags to clean up after your pet.

Aviv Beach - Best For Water Sports

Location: Southern part of the Tel Aviv Promenade, near the Carmel Market, and the Charles Clore Garden.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Aviv Beach has a great balance between relaxation and activity. While offering calm waters ideal for families with young children, it also features a cafe, workout equipment, and beach sports facilities for those seeking a more energetic time. The southern section of the beach (north of the old Dolphinarium) is dedicated for water sports, and there is a surfing club.
Tips for Visitors: Enjoy water sports activities and watch drummers gather around the Dolphinarium on Fridays for a unique experience.

The Best Beaches Outside of Tel Aviv:

Visiting beaches outside of Tel Aviv offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city atmosphere while providing a diverse range of coastal experiences. These beaches, all conveniently located within a short distance from Tel Aviv, often boast cleaner and less crowded shores, allowing visitors to unwind in a more tranquil setting. Additionally, exploring beaches beyond Tel Aviv grants access to unique natural landscapes and cultural attractions, providing an enriching experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Gaash Beach

Location: Located north of Herzliya, approximately 20 kilometers north of Tel Aviv.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: This secluded natural beach features a picturesque stretch of coastline characterized by dramatic cliffs, fine golden sand and stunning sea views with crystal turquoise water. Hikers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy the Ga’ash beach coastal trail, offering opportunities to explore the surrounding area, which is known for its steep limestone cliffs rising about 30-40 meters high. Ga’ash beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known to be clothing-optional and gay-friendly. Perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience not too far from Tel Aviv.
Tips for Visitors: Bring your own snacks and drinks as facilities may be limited. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and beautiful coastal views.

Palmachim Beach

Location: Situated south of Tel Aviv, near Rishon LeZion, approximately 30 kilometers south of Tel Aviv.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Nestled among sand dunes and rocky formations, Palmachim beach offers visitors a natural rocky bay with a pristine sandy beach. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking sun, sea, and relaxation away from the busy city. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Additionally, the beach is known for its historical significance, with nearby ancient ruins such as the Yavne Yam Ruins adding to its allure.
Tips for Visitors: Explore the nearby Palmachim National Park and enjoy picnics amidst the coastal dunes.

Dor Beach (Tantura Beach)

Location: Located in Dor, a coastal village south of Haifa, approximately 80 kilometers north of Tel Aviv.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: Dor-Tantura Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Israel, thanks to a group of rocky islands located off the coast, some of which are accessible by a short walk in the shallow waters. This beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, soft golden sand, clear waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline. It is perfect for swimming, kayaking, spending time at the beach restaurants, or even staying overnight in one of the nearby campsites and resorts. During the week it is less crowded compared to more popular beaches in the region but it can get very busy on weekends and holidays.
Tips for Visitors: Take a guided tour of the nearby archaeological sites with ancient ruins dating back to biblical times. Bring snorkeling gear to explore the marine life in the clear waters.

Sidna Ali Beach (Nof Yam Beach)

Location: Situated in Herzliya, approximately 20 kilometers north of Tel Aviv.
Entrance Fee: Free
Special Features: This beach offers a hidden gem experience north of Tel Aviv with beautiful cliffs, a secluded atmosphere, and the intriguing sight of “Nissim the Caveman’s” house carved into the rock face. While the northern part requires caution due to no lifeguards, the designated beach area provides calm waters for swimming and stunning views. Beloved by those seeking a more natural beach experience, Sidna Ali Beach caters to sunbathers, adventurous explorers, and anyone wanting a break from the usual Tel Aviv buzz.
Tips for Visitors: Explore the nearby cliffs and enjoy stunning views of the sea. Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, as shade may be limited.

Caesarea Beach

Location: Located in the ancient city of Caesarea, approximately 50 kilometers north of Tel Aviv.
Entrance Fee: Free but parking may require payment.
Special Features: Caesarea Beach offers a unique blend of history and relaxation. Sunbathers sprawl on the golden sand beside the ruins of Herod’s Roman port, creating a fascinating collision of ancient and modern life. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while remnants of breakwaters and piers hint at the port’s former grandeur. History buffs can explore the archaeological park nearby, and afterwards, grab a bite at a beachfront restaurant with a view that stretches back centuries.
Tips for Visitors: Combine a visit to the beach with exploring the nearby archaeological sites, including the Roman amphitheater and the Crusader fortress. Bring sturdy footwear for walking on uneven terrain.

Conclusion

Tel Aviv offers quite a few stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm and ambiance. Whether you’re seeking a bustling social scene, water sports adventures, or simply a peaceful spot to soak up the sun, Tel Aviv beaches deliver unforgettable experiences against the backdrop of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. With their convenient amenities, panoramic views, and inviting atmosphere, these beaches epitomize the vibrant coastal culture that makes Tel Aviv a truly exceptional destination for beach enthusiasts worldwide. So have fun exploring the best beaches Tel Aviv has to offer, and immerse yourself in the sun, sand, and surf of this coastal paradise.