Eilat in Israel and Aqaba in Jordan are neighboring cities located at the northern tip of the Red Sea. They are both popular tourist destinations known for their beautiful beaches, water activities, and other recreational opportunities. Here’s a brief overview of what you can do in these two cities for recreation and tourism:
Eilat, Israel:
- Coral Beach Nature Reserve: Eilat is known for its stunning coral reefs, and the Coral Beach Nature Reserve is an excellent place for snorkeling and diving. You can explore the colorful underwater world with its diverse marine life.
- Eilat’s Beaches: Eilat has several beautiful beaches, including North Beach and Princess Beach. They are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports.
- Eilat Mountains: The Eilat Mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the desert landscape. The Red Canyon and Timna Park are popular destinations for hiking and rock formations.
- Dolphin Reef: Interact with dolphins at the Dolphin Reef, where you can swim and snorkel with these intelligent marine creatures.
- Underwater Observatory Marine Park: Explore the marine life without getting wet at the Underwater Observatory Marine Park, which offers a unique perspective on the Red Sea’s ecosystems.
- Nightlife: Eilat has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Aqaba, Jordan:
- Aqaba Marine Park: Aqaba is renowned for its marine life, and the Aqaba Marine Park is a fantastic place for snorkeling and diving. The park is home to numerous coral reefs and colorful fish species.
- Beaches: Aqaba has several beaches, such as South Beach and Berenice Beach, where you can relax, swim, and enjoy various water sports.
- Aqaba Fort: Explore the historic Aqaba Fort, which dates back to the Mamluk period and provides a glimpse into the city’s history.
- Wadi Rum: While not in Aqaba itself, the nearby Wadi Rum desert offers unique experiences like jeep safaris, rock climbing, and camping under the stars. It’s a popular day trip from Aqaba.
- Ayla Oasis: Ayla Oasis is a mixed-use development with a golf course, shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Aqaba City Center: Stroll through Aqaba’s city center, visit local markets, and enjoy Jordanian cuisine in the city’s restaurants.
- Historical Sites: Aqaba is home to various historical sites, such as the ancient city of Ayla and the Aqaba Archaeological Museum.
When visiting these destinations, it’s essential to check the current political and safety conditions, as they can change over time. Additionally, make sure to have the necessary visas and travel documents when crossing the border between Israel and Jordan, and be aware of the respective entry requirements for each country.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.