The Dead Sea is famous for floating in its salty, mineral-rich water, but the region around it is one of the most spectacular in Israel. Desert oases with waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, ancient fortresses and archaeological treasures all lie within a short drive of the shore. Here are the most beautiful places at the Dead Sea, grouped by the kind of day you are after.
Nature reserves and desert hikes
Ein Gedi: a desert oasis
Ein Gedi is one of the loveliest spots in the country – a nature reserve with waterfalls, freshwater springs and natural pools in the middle of the desert. The most popular trail follows Nahal David up to the famous David Waterfall. Keep an eye out for ibex and rock hyraxes along the way.
Nahal Arugot
Ein Gedi’s second great stream hike, with flowing water, pools and small waterfalls. It is slightly quieter than Nahal David and a favourite with families and nature lovers.
Ein Feshkha (Einot Tzukim)
A reserve of natural springs, pools and reed beds at the northern end of the Dead Sea, with pleasant walking paths. It is a great spot for birdwatching and seeing desert wildlife.
Metzoke Dragot
These high cliffs offer some of the most impressive views over the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert. It is a popular spot for off-road trips, picnics, landscape photography and, for the brave, rappelling.
History above the water
Masada
King Herod’s clifftop fortress is one of Israel’s most important historic sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the Snake Path on foot – ideally before dawn to watch the sunrise – or take the cable car. At the top are Herod’s palaces, storerooms, bathhouses and an ancient synagogue, with spectacular views over the Dead Sea.
Qumran
At the north-western end of the Dead Sea, Qumran is where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. The site includes a short film, a small museum and the excavated remains of the settlement where a Jewish sect lived some 2,000 years ago.
Beaches and mud
Ein Bokek
The main hotel area on the southern shore has free public beaches with showers, shade and lifeguards – the easiest place for a classic Dead Sea float. See our guide to Dead Sea hotels if you want to stay overnight.
Kalia Beach
At the northern tip of the Dead Sea, Kalia offers bathing facilities, showers, a restaurant and mineral mud to smear on.
A note on closed beaches
As the water level drops, sinkholes have forced several well-known sites along the western shore to close, including Mineral Beach and the Ein Gedi spa. Always check that a beach is open and safe before you set out – our round-up of the best Dead Sea beaches is a good place to start.
Tips for visiting the Dead Sea region
- Start early: it gets extremely hot, especially from May to October. Hike in the morning and swim later.
- Carry plenty of water: at least three litres per person for a day of hiking.
- Check opening hours: nature reserves close in the afternoon, and last entry to some trails is earlier.
- Combine sites: Ein Gedi, Masada and a swim at Ein Bokek fit comfortably into one full day.
Each of these places offers something different, and together they show off the natural and historical richness of the region. For more background, read our guide to the Dead Sea, and if you are combining it with a city stop, our Jerusalem travel guide.
