My name is Sherry Koral and welcome to my guide on the epic Dead Sea of Israel. I’m 24 years old and was born and raised in Queens, New York City.
For as long as I can remember, I have had a passion for photography. At about the age of 10 I got my first digital disposable camera. Every time we went on trips into the forest filled with beautiful landscapes the camera would be by my side. I would fall in love and never want to leave.
At the age of 14 our whole family decided to move to Israel and join the rest of our family who was already living there. On holidays my father would take us on hikes and it was then that my love for nature started to grow.
Soon it became a huge part of my life. I have always had a camera in my hand snapping away and I just can’t imagine my life without capturing the beauty of our world and inspiring others to get out there and explore.
Visiting the Dead Sea in Israel
Israel is filled with so much amazing nature and history. One of the places I have always wanted to visit ever since we moved was the Dead Sea. One holiday vacation my father took my friends and I for a relaxing day at the Dead Sea. When we arrived our reaction all together was just “wow”!
From the breathtaking drive on the way down, to the blue thick salty water – we just wanted to jump in and float away. Ever since then, I have probably returned to the Dead Sea another 15 times to explore the area even more.
Why is it Called the “Dead Sea”?
There is a reason why they call it the “Dead Sea”. The water is so salty that nothing can really live in it. With just a small and very careful leap into the super salty water, you will instantly start to float. It can even get extremely hard to stand up straight afterwards – that is how much you can float!
It’s recommended not to get any water in your eyes/mouth since it could be dangerous (start with floating on your back.) The overall floating experience is very relaxing. It almost feels like a natural spa and my skin always feels so smooth after a nice shower when visiting the Dead Sea.
5 Best Things To Do at the Dead Sea, Israel
1. Take a Salty Dip at a Dead Sea Beach
Some of the best beaches of the Dead Sea are: Ein Bokek Beach, Kalia Beach and Ein Gedi Beach. All must-sees when visiting the Dead Sea!
Most of the Dead Sea beaches of Israel such as Kalia Beach and Ein Gedi Beach have lots of the famous mud which is high in salt and mineral content. These minerals have proven to give relief for arthritis, reduce hair loss, reduce cellulite and smoothen out wrinkles. It’s like a natural spa!
2. Visit during October-November or March-April
To really get the full relaxing experience, try not to visit during the holiday season when it can get pretty crowded. Israel’s weather is quite comfortable throughout the whole year especially in the Dead Sea region. This makes October-November and March-April the best months to visit.
If you do end up visiting during the holidays, I would suggest sticking to the less touristy beaches off the hotel strip. Go for a drive and find the least crowded spot to sit back and relax. Remember, all of the beaches around the Dead Sea are breathtaking and have their own unique appeal.
3. Wear Flip Flops or Water Shoes to the Dead Sea
Do not visit the Dead Sea without either flip flops or water shoes. The salt formations in the lake are as sharp as knives and it is not fun to get cut (from experience.) The Dead Sea salt formations are playgrounds for drone photographers so to get the ultimate Instagram shot keep comfy and safe!
4. Go Camping at the Beautiful Ein Gedi Reserve
If you are planning to visit the Dead Sea area of Israel for more than one day, and if you are a budget traveller or just want to feel immersed in nature, then camping at Ein Gedi Reserve is a must-do! Wake up early for a sunrise dip and continue on with exploring this beautiful reserve.
5. Drive around the Dead Sea on a Road Trip
This activity is my personal favorite. Take a day to drive around the Dead Sea and go on a mini road trip. Go explore from the southern area all the way up to the north, visit the famous lookouts along the way overlooking the Dead Sea and stop off to enjoy a nice picnic while watching the sunset.
You might bump into some wildlife friends like the mountain ibex which are super friendly (please do not feed them). While doing so, remember to stay safe! The Dead Sea has several sinkhole areas so pay attention to signs.
Explore more of the Dead Sea Area
The Dead Sea region of Israel is filled with many historical and natural attractions to choose from, starting with the most popular:
- Masada National Park: One of the greatest archaeological sites in Israel and perhaps the world. Its dramatic climb can now be made by cable car, but hikers might enjoy the challenge. The drama and imagery that this site portrays is no less powerful than it ever was. Many tourists choose to join a tour, enjoying a guide who will bring the site to life.
- Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: This oasis and nature reserve attracts about one million visitors a year. It’s located right by the Dead Sea in the Judean Desert. Here you can experience the most beautiful oasis in Israel – filled with springs, waterfalls and flowing streams at the foot of each cliff. The reserve is also home to many ibexes and rock hyraxes. You will definitely have an amazing day at Ein Gedi. Don’t miss the beautiful Wadi David and Wadi Arugot while you are there.
- Wadi Bokek: Located on the western shore of the Dead Sea, this wadi is another amazing place to visit with its greenery and springs. The hiking here is easygoing and anyone with decent fitness levels can hike the trail through the wadi. So it makes for a good stop to stretch your legs – especially if you have spent most of your time relaxing on the beach and want to get some exercise but don’t want a challenging walk.
- Qumran Caves: This is the site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. At the Qumran Caves you can hike and sightsee up to the hills, explore the caves where ancient manuscripts were discovered and see the ancient ruins of the Essenes community. The history and findings that were excavated here are remarkable.
For the ultimate Dead Sea experience in Israel, take a few days to explore the area and visit the amazing parks. Trust me you will not regret it!
Where to Sleep at the Dead Sea
Overlooking the southern end of the Dead Sea, you will find several amazing hotels and resorts. If you are looking for a more luxurious stay I would recommend checking them out! But if you want to get in touch with nature, then Ein Gedi Camp Lodge has the coolest camping spots.
They have everything you need such as WiFi, showers, bathrooms and food. It’s located 300 meters from the Botanical Garden at Kibbutz Ein Gedi.
Need to Know Before you Go
Before visiting the Dead Sea in Israel – whether you take a day trip or go on a multi-day adventure – remember to always start your day prepared. You will be in the desert climate which requires bringing lots of water, a hat, sunscreen and some snacks to keep you energised throughout the day.
If you have a camera or drone make sure you keep that by your side for the whole trip because the Dead Sea is filled with surprises! I hope you enjoyed reading my tips on the Dead Sea and wish you all the best for your visit.
