Things to do in Southern District in August

When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

Overview

August is a less popular time to visit Southern District.

Southern District has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your August trip to Southern District. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to August. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Visiting Southern District? See our Southern District Trip Planner.
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app

Best events and things to do in Southern District in August

Top experiences in August
We couldn't find any experiences in August
Holidays in Southern District in August
August
  • Tisha B'Av Eve (August 11)
Other notable holidays
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more

Best attractions for Southern District in August

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Southern District has to offer for travelers in August, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Southern District that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Southern District for August.
Underwater Observatory Park
1. Underwater Observatory Park
4.5
(17172)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Underwater centre with viewing halls 12m beneath the Red Sea, plus aquariums & shark pools.
Slide 1 of 8
Would spend there all day. An established place, but it keeps renovating all the time. The shark aquarium is so relaxing and exiting at the same time! The underwater observatory facility is a must. Note- a single ticket is good for a couple of days, so if you want to visit more than once (and you should) plan accordingly.
What a great chance to sit and watch fish for hours! Between the underwater observatory and the aquarium we were really pleased with the experience. Go early for quieter viewing without crowds. There was plenty of parking when they first opened.
Good for little kids, probably less for older ones. The place is trying hard to remain relevant. The underwater observetory is a little old and not really that impressive anymore. However you also get an impressive shark pool and some stingray and sea turtles exhibits. The 3d movie was impressive (but short. 18 min total). I've certainly been to better aquariums, but this is decent and good for kids.
A real fun place for kids, but also for the sea animal lovers. We had a guided tour and it was perfect and well explained. I enjoyed every bit of it. I would have enjoyed more if the glasses were a bit cleaner. Nevertheless, it was fun. PS: The 3D movie was cherry on the top
Wonderful. From walking through the lively coral reef to the 3D cinema which is unlike any other I have witnessed. The screen goes above the head so that it can be protected from any point in the room and looks like the whole is above you. This place is a must see for young and old. It is a beautifully maintained park, with a big variety of coral. The underwater observatory is absolutely amazing. The water of the red see is also accommodating the coral beautifully. The aqua dome is also an experience like none other. The whole is turned into a 3D video and it literally feels like you are under the ocean and touching the sea life yourself. Great place to visit, both educational and fun. its really impressive to see all the unique creatures that live in the ocean. dedicate at least several hours to the visit.
This place gets it! It's all about the service and people. Incredibly helpful and friendly staff. Very clean place. Food was good and fair priced. The exhibits were all well maintained. Especially with children, this is a very nice all day activity.
Fabulous experience! I love that they put effort into the smallest details like trash cans shaped as sharks. The cruise )15 minutes long) is also totally worth it.
We’ve been to aquariums all over the world and this isn’t the glossiest or the most high tech. But my kids love it and beg to come back every time we are in Eilat. There’s lots of different things to do that keep everyone entertained and you cannot beat seeing fish in their actual habitat. We love this charming little place. The 3-D movie was a huge hit!
Dolphin Reef Beach
2. Dolphin Reef Beach
4.4
(1126)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Enclosed sea pen for swimming, diving & snorkeling amid captive bottlenose dolphins.
Slide 1 of 8
Absolutely loved it! The dolphins were so cute and the entrance was gorgeous! Defenitatly recommend if you are coming to Eilat. I would recommend to come early in the morning if you want to choose a good spot to spend the rest of the day. It gets crowded but there are still a lot of places under the trees to hide from the sun. The water was super clear and security was okay.
Pretty good beach but bit of a scam because it says on the website that you can swim with the dolphins but actually you can just put your feet in and not actually swim but it was a pretty beach nonetheless
Excellent spot to come in the morning and spend all day here. Really enjoyed it! The dolphins can be a quest to see but with some patience and luck- you will!
Suchhh a beautifull place to watch dolphinsss, the dolphins are free to wander in the ocean which beautifully symbolized how free they are and just how they love their care takers enough to come back all the time to hang around us! Beuaitufl resort right next to a very aesthethic looking wooden structure with a sight and a bar and places to sit every where on, on the wooden water floating structure u also get great and beautiful ocean views and can see the dolphins in the big circle! Before the wooden structures there's of course a beach u can chill in and just wander around shops and soveniers 💕✨
Very beautiful tourist attraction! We saw 3 dolphins here! It’s about a luck to see them comming from the open sea! Student discount on the entry. Very delicious food in restaurant!
I have very mixed feelings about this place. We do end up here every time we come to Eilat and I like that the dolphins are free to come and go as they please BUT it’s very expensive and crowded. You just catch short glimpses of the dolphins (true it’s because they aren’t penned in which is a good thing). All of the activities cost extra and the prices are extremely high. I dunno, it’s only a so/so experience. We’ve had a much better time at some of the free beaches. The food is typical beach food with typical beach prices although I will say the Greek salad I had for lunch was quite tasty. I guess I would say, this doesn’t need to go on your Must Do list but if you’re out of activities and you need a few hours to kill, this isn’t terrible.
Very nice beach that combines everything. The price a bit high for family but its worth it if you didn't visit there. The food in the restaurant is great and the service is good. The relaxing place inside requires extra price and very expensive I should mention.. The dolphins are amazing and there is explanation in Hebrew and English. Most of the place is shaded and even if it full there's enough chairs and place for everyone:)
Great place, similar to an oasis. I would recommend to come early in the morning if you want to choose a good spot to spend the rest of the day. It gets crowded but there are still a lot of places under the trees to hide from the sun.
Timna Park
3. Timna Park
4.7
(8475)
National park
Nature & Parks
Sprawling park known for its ancient mineshafts, arid, rocky landscape & striking clifftops.
Slide 1 of 8
Beautiful desert park, 20 minutes drive from Eilat. Mainly car trails with sightseeing or trekking stops, historic sites, an artificial lake, a restaurant and activities for the kids. Accessible in extreme heat or pleasant weather alike. A lot of the park is wheelchair accessible.
Amazing landscape, many things to see and trails to hike. Very well kept park. But be ware that you need to manage your own food (have with you there). Many places around close early, especially on Friday.
World oldest copper mine, in the middle of the desert. Plentiful to see, from natural wonders, rock formations, natural arches, to historical sights, such as rock carving, Egyptian temple of Athor and Egyptian underground mines, some of which you can enter and crawl in. You must come by car, there is no public transportation inside the park, but there is a well defined, well kept and made cycling route. The fee covers you for 7 days of entries, and you get a dial in code to enter the park anytime, even during tourist center closing. Do not miss the visit center, spend at keaat 40mns there, the exhibitions are well worth it, and check with the Ranger on site for guidance based on your interests and stamina. Haza was in charge that day, and outstanding guide. Thanks to his pointers we could define a trip easy for our 7 years old, with a lot of small exciting climbs and go to a massive sand dune. Near the lake / restaurant, , there is a coloured sand bottle filling station, great gifts to all visitors. From all around you have wonderful views on Israel, and over the border toward "Palestine" (aka Jordan) Do not forget, this is the desert, closed shoes are mandatory, and bring water, the only refilling station is at the very end, at the lake.
Beautiful nature and cool things to look at. It's just crazy what some rain in a desert can do. The park is well preserved and you can go through by car. You then have to walk just a little bit to get close to the thing. You can also do a bit longer walkings, where you get to see interesting nature. Sometimes, offroad offers you more. Unfortunately, the tabernacle was closed. I don't know if it is always closed or just when we've been there in November. If you can, buy your ticket online. There you get a combination ticket with the Underwater Marine Observatory. We didn't succeed in buying the ticket. And we don't know if it is available for people with a non Israeli credit card or phone number.
The visit made sence, in a weird way. You think you have seen the mountains, and the park seems like a boring extend to the same mountains, but its not! Friendly people, visualization of the ancient story of the place, and much more makes it worth the visit. Much of the park is accessible by car, which makes it possible to visit, even on the hottest days. There is animals if you look in the shade of the lonely trees. I recommend it!☺️
A fantastic experience! our guide, Shay Cohen, was very engaging, and the scenery was breathtaking. Don't miss out on the guided tour by lantern light!
Amazing experience starting at the visitors centre and throughout the park. Well organised, lots to do, lots of interesting places to see with interestinghistory. Great walks short and long. Incredible views and landscapes. Don't miss.
It’s a breathtaking place, a must-have for hiking lovers. Plenty trails at different length and difficulties, it gives a good variety selection. A choice for bike rental is also a good addition if you would like to boost the experience.
שמורת טבע חוף האלמוגים
4. שמורת טבע חוף האלמוגים
4.6
(10423)
Beach pavillion
Nature & Parks
Nature reserve & beach with a large coral reef offering snorkeling, swimming areas & footbridges.
Slide 1 of 8
The reserve is well-maintained, clean, and organized, with food shops and equipment rental available. While the price is a bit high compared to free nearby spots, the underwater experience is spectacular- vibrant corals, colorful marine life, and plenty to see. The area is very accessible, and safety is taken seriously with lifeguards on duty. Showers and restrooms are available and well-kept. Most seating areas are shaded with white canopies, which helps, though it can still get extremely hot in July and August. Some downsides include ongoing renovations, which limit access to newer sections and make planning a snorkeling route a bit challenging. The designated swimming areas are small and enclosed, but beyond the bridge, there are vast open spaces where you can really explore and see a lot of beautiful marine life. Overall, it’s more comfortable and enjoyable to snorkel in a well-supervised, maintained area than in unofficial sites, and the beautiful coral and abundant sea creatures make it well worth a visit. * Pros: Clean and organized, lifeguards on duty, beautiful corals and marine life, showers and restrooms, accessible. * Cons: Entry fee is high compared to free alternatives, renovations limit some areas, enclosed swimming zones can feel small, it can get very hot in summer.
Beautiful beach. Very clean. Tidy + with all facilities to enjoy the amazing Red Sea. It is considered a national park. Not for nothing. Once you enter the water, you can swim with some of the most exotic fish +. Once you put your head into the water you see the Wonder of nature underwater. It is very friendly for kids and for families and we could find ourselves spending the whole day from morning till night over there
Although its one of the best places to see corals and fish in Eilat. The site could be a bit more developed. There are not many showers and only one dock to enter the water and relatively small place for swimming. With limited hours of operation and mediocre services this beautiful natural reserve should get an upgrade and the site could invest some of the entrance fee in improvments.
The world northernmost coral reef, really! Right at your foot steps in eilat, Jordan has none. This beach has the advantage of not being overcrowded and all facilities are here, showers, toilets, bar, and a small nature reserve shop and rental services if you forgot your snorkeling equipment. Note, there are no lifeguard, only park rangers, but there is a space by the beach, in shallow water for poor swimmers Plant to bring some water shoes for the beach side. The reef is accessible via a long pier, and a large staircase leading easily to the water. Then it is the wonders of the red sea!
One of the good beaches in Eilat Clean, had toilet, shop, walk route, bridge directly to Red see with excitement view of corals, different fish types It's needed some payment, check possible options before coming there It's better come with your own equipment Pay attention - NO SAFE GUARDS
Our preferred place in Eilat! Every time we are in Eilat we go to this place, the best still and ever. Actually we were there every day, not a problem as we slept at the Yam Suf Hotel, only a 5 minute walk to there. 1. the beach is incredibly looked after 2. The Reserve guards are watching all the time for trespassers so very little chance something bad could happen to you while swimming 3. and of course the corals and the fish. Yes the coral are less beautiful than in the previous years, the mini tsunami a few years ago did damage the reef, but still they are interesting and the fish are till there and still super beautiful. Don't "FOMO" it, would you?
Snorkelling is ok. Nice fish and a bit of coral. If you've been in good reef places, you won't be impressed. But if in Eilat, it's worth a visit but a bit expensive for what it offers.
We had a lovely day out here. It was February, so out of season and not too busy. Lots of beautiful sea life up close in enormous tanks. Also, a very nice undersea viewing room and a sub trip if you want. Loads of facilities and other interesting things to see..... Lovely and we'll worth a visit 😀
Makhtesh Ramon
5. Makhtesh Ramon
4.8
(842)
Crater
Nature & Parks
Dramatic geological feature & 40-km-long erosion landform of Israel's Negev desert.
Slide 1 of 8
The Mizpe Ramon crater is the closest most of us will ever get to feel like we are exploring another planet. It's a surreal geologic experience. Taking a four wheel drive in late afternoon is a must do. If you are in Israel you need to do this crater. It's easy to get to by taking a train to Bersheeva and then a bus to the small town of Mizpe Ramon. We spent 2 nights in a hotel on the rim so had plenty of opportunity to photograph sunrise, sunset, and moonrise. The hotel had a grand all you can eat breakfast.
Amongst the must-see areas of Israel! Absolutely stunning views, many hiking, 4 by 4 vehicle, and biking trails everywhere! Just be aware of the firing zones of the military.
A stunning spot for stargazing. Even in summer, nights are very cold because it’s in the desert hot during the day but chilly at night, so bring sweaters. Totally worth visiting to watch the shooting stars in August
8.28.17 - We only drove through the crater and that alone was pretty cool. However, the views from the road heading down into the crater from the Israeli side is inspiring. The nature center is very informative and the rangers are relatively nice, but it might take a little bit of effort to warm them up. There are nature trails you can take, but make sure you arrive early enough otherwise it can be a dangerous path where you can fall off the edge or run into a family of goats/rams (something we saw).
Looking like a surreal place from a Science Fiction movie, the Makhtesh Ramon is an extraordinary nature sight in an otherwise quite boring surrounding. You can eather take a stroll along the crater's edge or take a hike through the Makhtesh. Make sure to visit the Infocenter before in order to get hints regarding hiking routes. Also be sure to start early in the morning as it tends to get very hot already before noon.
Beautifu dessert view of Makhtesh Ramon in the Negev, Israel. Very nice colors of nature.A great place for hikers.You can climb the mountains and enjoy the clear air and a fabulous landscape.
Ramon Crater - is a real wonder and one of the most amazing places in Israel. If you like stunning landscapes, silence of the desert, enjoy hiking or biking, starry nights or ... luxury hotels :) - this is it!
As Israel Private Tour Guide this is my favorite 👀 for the Dessert lover's. This is what I shall name as window to Geology. There are many opportunities for hikes long or short ones. Nabatian ruenes. Springs. You also might enjoy over 🌙 camp. Love it.
Ice Mall
6. Ice Mall
4.3
(34376)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Indoor mall with an ice skating rink, stores, eateries & attractions such as laser tag & rides.
Slide 1 of 8
Ice Mall in Eilat is truly a unique and wonderful shopping destination! The mall has an amazing atmosphere, featuring a special indoor ice rink that creates a fun and refreshing experience, especially on hot Eilat days. Walking through the mall, you can find a great variety of shops, from international brands to local boutiques, offering fashion, souvenirs, and more. There are also many restaurants, cafés, and ice cream stands — perfect for taking a break and enjoying a delicious treat. The ice cream I tried here was fantastic, colorful, and full of flavor. The vibrant display immediately caught my eye, and it tasted just as good as it looked. The mall is very clean, beautifully designed with a high, geometric glass ceiling that allows plenty of natural light. It feels spacious, bright, and welcoming. Families with kids will definitely enjoy it, and there are several entertainment options for children as well. Another great thing about Ice Mall is that it is located close to many hotels and tourist attractions in Eilat, making it easy to visit even if you are only staying for a short trip. I highly recommend stopping by for shopping, dining, and a fun experience overall!
Ice Mall is a large shopping and entertainment center, conveniently located within walking distance of most central hotels in Eilat, with parking nearby. Inside you’ll find a huge variety of shops – fashion, perfumes, electronics – along with plenty of food options and activities. It can get very crowded, which sometimes makes the atmosphere feel overwhelming, especially for parents who worry about keeping an eye on their kids. On the fun side, there are lots of games and activities for children (most for an extra fee). The ice-skating rink is the highlight – very enjoyable for kids and adults alike. Even toddlers can join with special seats designed for them, which makes the experience inclusive and fun for the whole family. * Pros: Central location, wide variety of shops, many kids’ activities, fun ice-skating rink. * Cons: Very crowded at times, extra costs for most activities, can feel overwhelming. Overall: If you enjoy shopping, family activities, and don’t mind the crowds, Ice Mall is definitely worth a visit.
Overall we had a great time at the Ice Mall, but it's a bit tough to get through when crowded. Seems like they've got too many kiosks and other shops blocking the walkways. Best to visit outside of peak times.
Ice skating is definitely the highlight of the mall and is very recommended. Good food in the restaurants, and many good brands of clothes and more. Very little if any shaded parking, and summer in Eilat is very hot.
The mall is open 7 days a week but most of the stores are closed on weekends. Super crowded and the only advantage is that it’s a circle so you can find your way fairly easily.
Very beautiful shopping center downtown Eilat. It's medium size, includes some clothing stores, fashion accessories, places to eat, places to seat, souvenirs shops, playground for kids and ice skating attraction. One of a kind.
The mall I always go to when vising Eilat ,one of the biggest malls we have in Israel for sure ,it has more than enough brands for all accessories U need clothing shoes electronics,toys and most importantly! Activities ,it has ice skating arena ,a circle around the mall roof omega as you see in the photos! inCase U wanna just hang out in the air for few minutes while controlling the speed of your flight 🌈 and of course restaurants and fast food services! and on the outside there's a wide view of a big lake just next to the entery and exit ,and alot of statues for the family pictures and sometimes even street performers!
Awesome mall in downtown Eilat for kids and the whole family. Includes a ice skating rink, kids roller coaster as well as a hanging ride overhead tracks. Lots of shopping and some restaurants. Has arcade inside, and a small lego store. Prices are somewhat high.
Red Canyon
7. Red Canyon
4.8
(3064)
Nature & Parks
Canyons
Narrow, popular hiking trails through geologically unique, red-colored canyons with scenic views.
Slide 1 of 8
Great place to appreciate nature. Its not a long hike if you're like me, take tons of photos. Tip: we went beginning September. Its still hot so start early like we did. We woke up at 7:00 to leave by 8 no later.
The Red canyon in the Eilat mountains is one of most beautiful and attractive places for family's. The entrance to the park is completely free. It's easy and accessible mountains hike, even for a kids. Very colorful and interesting trails. It's about five kilometers long of loop trails. The place you must visit if you traveling in Israel. Recommend to visit at morning time, less crowded...
Very beautiful canyon. Free entry. It´s not allowed to go there at night. I do not recommend for little kids and animals, because you couldnt then cross the climbing with them. You can just enjoy a walk with them before the main tourist attraction. There is free parking, and bus 92 or 392, going every 1-2hours, and its not reliable.
Great shortish walk. Beautiful drive there and back. Amazing walk in the canyon. Not too hard. Try and beat large groups...
A must visit! Absolutely incredible to see the colors and formation of the canyon. Went here with our children and they enjoyed the hike. Would highly recommend wearing good hiking boots like blundstone as you're climbing down metal bars and back up along the cliff wall. Little dangerous for todlers but great for 5+ year olds.
It is a beautiful place to visit. It is for free and the circle around the red canyon takes less than an hour to go through. We made a bit a longer circle, which was also nice and showed us other things of the nature. It was in November. Still hot, but ok to do a larger circle. They warned us to do, because everything is in the sun (which was not true, there was some shade and some wind.) But we had to go up a bit, which can be really difficult if you're not used to hiking.
Short (~2km) walk through the dessert dry stream. The main attraction is the climbing down the stream, with stairs pegs and after that climbing back to the parking lot. This place located about 20km from Eilat, and we made it with little children (1.5, 4.5, 9 & 12), and they succeed this "track".
Incredible place, worth going to tale a look. Suggested for families (not babies, old family members or injured people), there is a considerable hike from the parking spot thought the field until the actual red canyon. In the canyon beautiful sightseeing amazing and fun trail. During the trail there are metal stairs in the rocks to help go up and down, (dangerous if wet).
Musical Fountain Eilat
8. Musical Fountain Eilat
4.4
(4450)
Sights & Landmarks
Fountains
Visitors can wander amid cool water jets in the day & watch colorful music & light shows after dark.
Slide 1 of 8
A lovely experience. It only lasts about 15 minutes, but it's free. Good music too!
Musical Fountain In Eilat very nice and free attraction at night time for all family, especially for kids. Every show is 15 minutes of long and it's beginning at 20:30. It's show of water with led lights around and popular music in Hebrew and English. It's nice entertainment in the area. Anyway if you in Eilat it's a good place to visit and see the musical fountain by yourself, enjoy.
Started with a great vibe of popular music in English and then moved to old Hebrew popular songs. Really missing some classical music in my taste and can use less Hebrew songs. The fountain bearly reacts to the songs (if at all). Still was nice to sit in the air and hear some music in the middle of the town 😬
Spent a good night here with the family, enjoyed it very much, tho the mosquitos ate my ass
Sprinklers turn into a light and music show a few evenings every week. Free and great for families!
Lights were nice, but music did the job. Come 10 min early and sit on the left corner (looking form the street) There's nothing better to do in eliat after its gets dark. Show last 15 min
Nice musical and lights spectacle. Unexpected in a city where water is so important for survival. I hope the water is reused. It's nice for tourism, because important cities in Europe has one of these. Please put a sign with the schedule of the fountain. It starts at 20:30 and lasts 15 min.
Very nice experience for the kids, the music is nice for the most parts, the sprinklers are pretty coordinated with the music, for those of you that saw these acts in Europe or the US won't be as impressed. But overall very nice place to hand out, the kids were having a great time watching the show, taking pictures with the stone fish or just running around in the grass
Hananya Beach - חוף חנניה ספורט ימי ושייט
9. Hananya Beach - חוף חנניה ספורט ימי ושייט
4.3
(3815)
Nature & Parks
Beach pavillion
Compact pebble beach & marina offering loungers, umbrellas, a variety of water sports & cruises.
Slide 1 of 8
A very beautiful and cozy small beach surrounded by palm trees and restaurants near the hotels on the one side, and a lagoon with beautiful yachts and tourist shopping area with numerous outlets - on the other. The water is good, clean and pleasant, but there can be stones near the shore. The best option that I can advise everyone is to buy rubber shoes in a store near the beach specially for beaches. Pleasure and comfort for the feet are guarantee.
Nice place they offer various water attractions. We did parasailing. The place is quite expensive, but the instructors were really nice and professional. I noticed that in other places the parachute fell into the water several times, but here they managed to keep it dry and handled everything very professionally. Highly recommended!
I had an amazing time at this beach. The views are incredible, the local offerings are more than sufficient, and it is overall incredibly enjoyable. I recommend (if in a large group) hiring a boat to go out further into the red sea, it's an amazing experience and the views are once in a lifetime. You can even get a speedboat to take you out for water tubing!
Nice beach but the music of the Maman restaurant is always too loud
Boat cruise and coral and fish gazing.. Superb weather and lovely calm sea.. Excellent way to spend 2 to 3 hours in Beautiful Eilat..
Eilat was nice. A bit expensive overall, for what it offered, but a pleasant experience.
I always include this activity when I'm in Eilat. Great sport sea sport activity, highly professional and service oriented team, great location and variety of activities for almost every age!
Very nice place to take a recreation
Mitzpe Ramon Visitors Center
10. Mitzpe Ramon Visitors Center
4.6
(6912)
Visitor center
Slide 1 of 8
In Russian, there's a word for "science town", and Mitspe Ramon would fit that word perfectly. This visitors center, hosting a memorial to astronaut Ilan Ramon, connects you to the greats and sorrows of humanity's scientific odyssey, from the Israeli point of view, in one of the most scenic locations in the country's desert. Compared to the vast space museums of Russia and the US, the exposition related to first Israeli astronaut is tiny, but the majestic nature - as seen from the cliff for miles ahead, and coupled with materials on the place's geological history and biosphere - makes up for it, creating an experience no superpower museum would be able to. It's a special place and you'll probably remember it well after your visit.
Small visitors center that has a dual focus. Half the tour is about Ilan Ramon and half about Ramon Crater. It took an hour. Has a gorgeous view and came free with my Israeli Parks membership. It is right at the entrance of the crater. Need to pay for parking.
A short and sweet review of the Ramon crater, how it was created, the darkness it inhabits, which enables stars to shine in the sky, and a tribute to Ilan Ramon, Israel's departed astronaut. Very enjoyable, informative and kids will find it interesting. In addition, there's a restaurant nearby, and parking is rather abundant. Highly recommended.
A very emotional experience to remember the history and to hear Ilan Ramon's last words in the space with his family. And when the video was over and the curtain opened slowly, the entire view of Ramon Crater was unfolded in front of us. What a strong emotional moment! A very unique experience of visiting the Ramon Crater. It's also part of the Matmon network of Israeli Parks Authority. So if you have Matmon, don't miss this place.
Very interesting and cute park Although the staff were rude to me hopefully they will become nicer to tourist when visiting such an interesting place
One of the most beautiful places in earth! However..one of the ropes that are using as a "fence" before the cliff is torn so don't leave the kids by themselves even for a second specially the youngest among them!
Amazing 'Machtesh" views and great exhibits. Loved learning about the crater and Ilan Ramon. Worth a visit! 🌟
An absolutely breathtaking taking setting with spectacular multimedia presentations in multiple venues. We'll worth the effort to get there. Good public makes getting there trivial. We had good accommodations an easy walk from the center.
Masada National Park
11. Masada National Park
4.7
(25794)
National park
Nature & Parks
National park featuring ancient ruins, camping, a visitor center, observation points & more.
Slide 1 of 8
Visiting Masada is one of those experiences that stays with you forever. The site combines history, breathtaking scenery, and a unique energy that makes it a must-see for anyone traveling to Israel. The fortress, perched on top of a mountain in the Judean Desert, offers stunning views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding arid landscape. It’s a place that makes you feel small in the face of nature’s grandeur and the depth of its history. The historical narrative of Masada is very well presented: every corner tells the story of the last Jewish stronghold against the Roman Empire, and walking through its ruins feels almost like stepping back in time. Whether you hike up the Snake Path at sunrise or take the cable car, reaching the top is equally impressive. The facilities are well maintained, the visitor center is modern, and access is clear and organized. I recommend bringing water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes—especially if you plan to hike up. Masada is not just a place to see; it’s a place to feel. The combination of history, desert silence, and spectacular views makes it one of the most memorable sites in all of Israel. Highly recommended.
In 73 or 74 CE, 960 Jewish zealots – men, women and children – ended there lives on top of the mountain of Masada by the Dead Sea in Israel rather than be captured by the Romans.Masada has been described as "a lozenge-shaped table-mountain" that is "lofty, isolated, and to all appearance impregnable".Historically, the fortress could be reached only by a single pathway that was too narrow for men to walk abreast. This pathway was named "the Snake" for the way it twists and zig-zags to the summit.Masada was named as the place where David rested after fleeing from his father-in-law, King Saul. Flavius Josephus, a Jew born and raised in Jerusalem, is the only historian to provide a detailed account of the First Jewish–Roman War and the only person who recorded what happened on Masada. After being captured during the Siege of Yodfat and then freed by Vespasian, Josephus chronicled the Roman campaign. Josephus presumably based his narration on the field commentaries of the Roman commanders. According to Josephus, Masada was first constructed by the Hasmoneans. Between 37 and 31 BC Herod the Great fortified it as a refuge for himself in the event of a revolt. In 66 AD, at the beginning of the First Jewish–Roman War, a group of Jewish extremists called the Sicarii overcame the Roman garrison of Masada and settled there. The Sicarii were commanded by Eleazar ben Ya'ir, and in 70 AD they were joined by additional Sicarii and their families expelled from Jerusalem by the Jewish population with whom the Sicarii were in conflict. Shortly thereafter, following the Roman siege of Jerusalem and subsequent destruction of the Second Temple, additional members of the Sicarii and many Jewish families fled Jerusalem and settled on the mountaintop, with the Sicarii using it as a refuge and base for raiding the surrounding countryside.[9] According to Josephus, on Passover, the Sicarii raided Ein Gedi, a nearby Jewish settlement, and killed 700 of its inhabitants. Archaeology indicates that the Sicarii modified some of the structures they found at Masada. These include a building that was modified to function as a synagogue. It may in fact have been a synagogue to begin with, although it did not contain a mikvah or the benches found in other early synagogues.[13] It is one of the oldest synagogues in Israel.
Visiting Masada National Park was an awe-inspiring experience that left me deeply moved by the rich history and breathtaking views. One of the highlights was witnessing the awe-inspiring sunrise from the fortress walls. The vibrant colors dancing across the Dead Sea, coupled with the peaceful silence of the desert, created a truly magical atmosphere. It was a moment that will forever be etched in my memory. Exploring the site, we marveled at the well-preserved structures, including the ancient synagogue, bathhouses, and the imposing palaces. The views from the summit were simply breathtaking, offering a breathtaking panorama of the desert landscape and the Dead Sea in the distance. Masada National Park’s commitment to preservation and conservation is evident throughout. The efforts to protect and restore this historical gem are commendable, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the remarkable heritage that unfolds within these ancient walls. I highly recommend visiting Masada National Park to anyone with an interest in history, nature, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience. The combination of historical significance, stunning landscapes, and a well-organized visitor experience make it a must-see destination. A trip to Masada National Park is an unforgettable journey that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit and the natural beauty of the Israeli desert. Don’t miss this gem on your travels!
Wonderful place full of history. It's worth getting an audio guide to enhance the visit and understand what you are looking at. Incredible views. Could not take the footpath to go up because it was closed due to heavy rain fall, but that didn't spoil the visit.
How is it possible that in a UNESCO World Heritage site, there is not even a leaflet or a minimal map in English (in the ticket price + cable car ticket)? Only in Hebrew, obviously for a fee, or some brochures in English at an extra cost... Total disappointment and shame!
One of my favorite National Park in Israel. No trip to Israel is complete without visiting this place. It is filled with so much history with a breathtaking view of the Dead Sea. The best time to visit is sunrise. This is a place that is usually very busy on weekends so it is advisable to schedule your arrival during the week. There are a few ways to get up: 1. Snake path - This is the long path up to the mountain. •Length: The route climbs to a height of 350 meters, and is 2.7 Km long. •Opens for ascent every day one hour before Sunrise and closes for descent one hour before closing time. •On very hot days the Snake Path ascent closes at 09:00AM and the descent closes at 10:00AM. When heat is extreme, the Snake Path ascent closes at 08:00 and the decent closes at 09:00. The descent via the Roman Ramp is open as usual. 2. The Roman ramp path - This is the short path. Starting point: West entrance. •Length: 0.7 Kilometers 3. Cable car - A round trip by cable car will cost 23$. • You need to make a reservation! •Starts working at 8AM!
Great national park to learn about the history of Masada! You can either hike up or take the cable car to the top from the visitor center. Signed placards around the area tell you about the history. There’s also a museum on the premises to learn even more. Also a gift shop and food in the visitor center. Very cool visit!
A visit to the Masada National Park is a must for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a deeper understanding of Jewish history. The combination of its historical significance, archaeological wonders, and stunning natural beauty make it a truly unique destination. Just make sure to plan your visit well, wear comfortable shoes, and bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
Ein Avdat National Park
12. Ein Avdat National Park
4.6
(7551)
National reserve
Nature & Parks
Protected park in a deep ravine with riverside trails to a waterfall, plus caves in the cliffside.
Slide 1 of 8
Amazing view and amazing view and again amazing view. This place is all about view. Love the natural formation of the rocky crater. Narrow stream is flowing naturally through the rocks. Beautiful big caves. There are multiple pools in the area, but swimming is not recommended. The upper pool view from the edge of the crater is stunning. It took us about 1 to 1.5 hour with multiple stopping and careful walking from lower parking lot to upper parking lot. It's one way trail. So, if you up for an adventure, try walking back from upper parking lot to lower parking lot by the road which will take around 3 hours with moderate pace.
Ein Avdat is a cool, refreshing haven in the middle of the hot desert. The scenery is stunning, with rugged landscapes that leave a strong impression. The small lake and waterfall add unexpected beauty, and you might even spot Nubian ibexes and eagles along the cliffs. It’s definitely a place worth visiting.
Great treks along the wadi. We took the short and it was very easy, with water, which is super amazing in June in Negev desert. It’s not crowded. We saw eagles, vultures and mountains goats along the route.
An amazing experience for all travelers. Highly recommended. The road is a bit rough but the views are incredible. If you want to go up the canyon and overlook the entire place you need to have another car waiting for you in the upper parking lot. It's the same ticket.
The Nabataeans built and inhabited Avdat from the 1st century, until an earthquake deconstructed the structures early in the 7th century. Truly magnificent Nabatean fortress with layers of ancient history. Fantastic stop for history buffs, with sweeping views over the desert mountains. It is indeed quite incredible to find water channels in the middle of the desert, but just the same as around the dead sea, there are plenty of springs in the the Negev. The best to go there autumn to winter when the weather is just fine. The hike to the top is definitely challenging, so be sure to take it slow and steady. The views of the canyon at the top are just spectacular, making the trek well worth it. Very interesting archeological site. Those anchient Naabatiens were crazy dudes, making wine in the middle of the desert. The site is well maintained and very interesting. It can get very hot/cold so try to visit during transitional seasons.
Amazing natural valley and cliff that are all peculiar in this region. It is indeed quite incredible to find water channels in the middle of the desert, but just the same as around the dead sea, there are plenty of springs in the the Negev. The best to go there autumn to winter when the weather is just fine. Even in summer it's still that bad because you will reach the cliff almost by car, from the parking place you will walk less than a km (800m).
Very beautiful place, a real oasis in the desert. Things to note : Eating is forbidden at all time in the park area , and at one point you can not go back the way you came. Look up there website for info.
So much to see in such a small area. Much history and eras featured here. Signage in the park is very limited as are the explanations so make sure you bring a tour guide and/or watch the video at the entrance. We saw some kids doing a scavenger hunt. Wish we would have some that too.
Princess Beach
13. Princess Beach
4.4
(543)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Iron walkways lead directly into clear waters popular for snorkeling & diving to spot coral & fish.
Slide 1 of 8
A good place in Eilat for snorkeling. Easy access to the water through 2 bridges that leads to the snorkeling area. Be aware it is a bit outside of the city and there's no where to buy food or drinks, so bring your own.
Free, yes but not at the same level than the close Nature Reserve. If you like snorkeling and you prefer to save the 10 bucks of the entrance fee at the Coral Beach Nature reserve, so this is the place to be. There are showers, toilets, but not that many parking spaces. Still the landscape is incredible, especially at sunset. And swimming in the red sea is simply the thing.
Princess Beach is an unofficial beach, which means no lifeguards, no supervision, and very limited facilities. The place isn’t well maintained – there’s a lot of rust, the pier is closed to entry, and there are no proper showers or restrooms. Shade is provided only by simple white fabric covers. Parking can also be difficult, especially on hot days, and there’s just one small kiosk that accepts cash only (no apps or credit cards). On the positive side, the underwater world is stunning. The beach offers free access to some of the most beautiful corals and a wide variety of marine life in Eilat – truly a snorkeler’s dream. * Pros: Free, amazing marine life and corals, great snorkeling. * Cons: No lifeguards, poor maintenance, cash-only kiosk, hard parking, no showers/restrooms. In short: if you’re looking for comfort and services, this isn’t the place. But if you want a free natural spot with breathtaking underwater sights, Princess Beach is highly recommended.
There were closed toilets, no showers. Beach was little. The piers were closed. We didn’t swim there, so i cant’t rate the undersea life. I do not recommend for tourists. Go to another beach.
One of the best beaches to scuba dive in Eilat, we are coming here every year in the last week of August. Sitting on the beach, relaxing with a cold beer during sunset is amazing !!!
The beach itself is a great place to swim and snorkel. The water is really clean and clear. It is also located right on the boarder of Egypt so technically your swimming on the line between 2 counties. For anyone who was wondering; The reason they call this beach the Princess Beach and not The Taba Boarder Beach is because of the abandoned hotel next to it. It used to be an amazing hotel with a private beach front until it closed down.
From Eilat City center, just take 5 minutes by car and 10 in bus. one of the best sites.
Great place for snorkeling. There are large shades placed by the municipality. On the down side there are no functional showers.
Ashkelon Marina
14. Ashkelon Marina
4.5
(2011)
Marina
Nature & Parks
Slide 1 of 8
Wonderful stretch of walkaway. Active marina, cafes, eateries, play areas along fantastic beach, often great for surfing.
Great place, plenty of resturants, there are kids attractions on the left of the marina
A beautiful place! I recommend visiting at least once. Many different restaurants.
Beautiful, clean, always a pleasure to visit. Nice cafes, great view, u always discover something new here.
The best marina in israel!!! Water and electricity are available for the moored boats. Clean and arranged. Variety of restaurants. Cinema. And swiming beachs on both sides of the marina.
Beautiful Beautiful both beach and marina with several kosher restaurants. Theres a Chabad in mall also.
I love the variety of unique eateries and stores along the boardwalk. I really enjoyed my time here and cannot wait to return.
Excellent port from where to send humanitarian aid to people in Gaza who desperately need it.
The Botanical Garden
15. The Botanical Garden
4.4
(842)
Ecological park
Coffee shop
Tranquil botanical garden with a peaceful stream, waterfalls, walking paths & a rainforest.
Slide 1 of 8
Definitely worth visiting. Very nice place a lot of shadow. Most of the wooden staff is made of reused wood. I would add in my personal opinion it's one of the best places to visit in Eilat.
I don't know one tree or plant from another but the attraction of this place is just comprehending that they were able to build this beautiful tropical oasis in the middle of a desert. It looks like it's been there forever. I can't even imagine the effort that went in to developing this lovely oasis from scratch. We had lovely weather on a ;day in mid-March and spent 2 hours walking the trails and relaxing in the shade, a morning of tranquility. (If you have mobility issues then it would be difficult to climb some of the steep inclines and stairs. We had no problem but be forewarned).
Its a nice little botanic garden with varied species, especially for an arid desert. Many flies around so bring some anti-mosquito cream, also obviously it's outside - so if you come when it's very hot you will have a hard time walking around.
I was truly impressed by how many plants are thriving here in the middle of the desert. You can really feel how much love, care, and hard work have been put into creating and maintaining this beautiful garden. It’s an oasis of green and peace in Eilat! The café is also a lovely surprise - great coffee, a vegan-friendly menu, and delicious homemade sweets. A perfect place to relax and enjoy nature!
This place was really a suprice. I tought this was quite basic , but this place is very nice. It has many view points to take pictures. There is alot walking routes and places to sit. If you visit eilat this is a good place to go.
It's a lovely place to visit Especially because it's one men's dream to fight the dessert.. And boy did it work .. Don't expect to much but it is growing.. I'd recommend it heartily
Lovely visit and well worth visiting. Warm welcome on arrival. Great views. You'll also find out about an army look out post among the botanical gardens and rain forest.
Beautiful and uniqe tropical island in the desert. Plenty of adorable sitting spots and lots of shaded areas. Don't miss out the rain forest water sprinklers on hot days! The place is way above expectations for a private initiative like that.
Ice Space
16. Ice Space
4.0
(425)
Permanently Closed
Water & Amusement Parks
Theme Parks
Slide 1 of 8
Very interesting place, which presents dummy winter conditions. There is an igloo with a cristal ball, bar and slide there and all this made from ice. However, the place is rather small.
Cool icy experience, good for kids, -15 degrees but you get suitable clothing A Bit small
54 nis for 5 min of creation film , and 70meter half of bar / child's play area, you get oldest not cleaned clothes gloves an heat. Nothing to see , you can leave after 3 minutes.
A fun attraction and worth it if you can get discount tickets. Worth going once.
Not well maintained, not alot to see for high price. Still, a very unique experience.
Very nice shopping mall with an ice skating area in the middle.
The place too small too expensive. Maximum 20 min to spend.
Nice ice skating Not a variety of shops
Planning a trip to Southern District?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
  • Itinerary + map in one view
  • Live collaboration
  • Auto-import hotels and reservations
  • Optimize your route
  • Offline access on mobile
  • Optimize your route
  • See time and distance between all your places
Learn more
Get the iOS app from the App Store
Get the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to Southern District