Tel Aviv Beaches Offer A Lot More Than a Day of Sun and Water

With a wide range of offerings, Tel Aviv beaches are a great way to spend fun in the sun.

By Tsivya Fox-Dobuler, United With Israel

In 2010, National Geographic Magazine ranked Tel Aviv as one of its “Top 10 Beach Cities,” in the world.

Now, for the first time, all of Tel Aviv’s 13 beaches received a “Blue Flag” from of the Foundation for Environmental Education. This coveted award is an internationally recognized symbol of quality.

So, what’s so special about the beaches in Tel Aviv?

Tel Aviv beaches provide bathrooms, showers, changing rooms and lounge chairs to rent.

Restaurants and cafes line most beaches and vendors carrying coolers walk the sand providing drinks and cold snacks.

Many beaches have water-resistant work-out gyms, volleyball nets and water-sports facilities that offer surfing, kayaking, boating and diving.

Beach bums enjoy watching people play a unique Israeli game, called “matkote.” Matkote is similar to ping-pong except there is no net, the ball is hard, and the paddles are wooden.

The promenades are filled with everything from walkers, joggers and bikers to artisans, clowns and jugglers.

And Tel Aviv beaches are known for their beautiful and romantic sunsets.

The “Blue Flag” awards are the cherry on top!

According to the EcoOcean website, an Israeli non-profit organization that promotes the preservation of the coastal and marine environment, the Blue Flag is awarded to beaches and marinas that excel in education and information, water quality, safety and environmental management and services.

It also raises environmental awareness among beach users and the surrounding communities to encourage good environmental management and reflects positively on the city’s municipality.

So, when are you coming?