In the middle of Israel’s busy central region, just north of Herzliya, lies a stretch of coast that has stayed wild. Sharon Beach National Park, known in Hebrew as Hof HaSharon, protects sandstone cliffs, rolling dunes and a quiet beach – a green escape only minutes from the city. Here is what you need to know before you visit.
Nature and scenery
The reserve stretches along the central coastline between Herzliya and the Shefayim area. Its landscape is varied: golden sand, high kurkar (sandstone) cliffs dropping to the sea, dunes and rich Mediterranean coastal vegetation. In late winter and spring, the area is covered with wildflowers.
The reserve is home to a wide range of plants and animals, including rare and endangered species that are found only on Israel’s coastal sands and receive special protection here. Look out for foxes, lizards and many species of birds.
What to do at Hof HaSharon
- Walk the cliff-top trails: marked paths run along the top of the cliffs, with wide views over the Mediterranean.
- Birdwatching: the coast is on a major migration route, especially in spring and autumn.
- Sunset: the cliffs are one of the best places in the centre of the country to watch the sun go down.
- Combine with Apollonia: the nearby Apollonia National Park, with its crusader fortress overlooking the sea, makes a great addition to your visit.
Conservation and visiting rules
Hof HaSharon is an example of how important it is to protect open spaces in Israel’s crowded centre, in the face of rapid development. To keep the ecological balance, visitors are asked to:
- Stay on the marked trails, and keep away from the edge of the cliffs, which can collapse.
- Avoid picking plants or disturbing animals.
- Take all rubbish home with them.
- Check where swimming is permitted – only swim at beaches with a lifeguard.
Tips for visiting
- Best time: spring, for the wildflowers, and late afternoon year-round for the sunset.
- Bring water and a hat: there is little shade along the cliffs.
- Wear good shoes: some paths are sandy and uneven.
For anyone who wants a break from routine and a taste of unspoilt nature close to the city, Hof HaSharon delivers. Looking for more ideas nearby? See our guides to Herzliya’s beaches, hotels in Caesarea and day trips in Israel.
