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Top 10 Must-See Sights by Israel's Dead Sea

Discover the Dead Sea: A Unique Travel Experience

The Dead Sea, a natural wonder, is a top destination for tourists seeking a unique swimming experience due to its extreme buoyancy caused by high salt levels. Situated over 400 meters below sea level, the only water loss is through evaporation, which contributes to the saltiness.

Swimming in the Dead Sea is a must-do, but the area also offers excellent hiking trails and historical sites. Combining a visit to the Dead Sea with a trip to the nearby Masada is recommended. The towns of Ein Bokek and Arad serve as convenient bases for overnight stays.

Explore the top attractions in Israel's Dead Sea region below.

1. Qumran

Qumran

Qumran is famous for the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient biblical manuscripts hidden by the Essene community. Visitors can see the ruins of the Essene settlement and an informative audiovisual presentation.

2. Kalia Beach

Floating in the Dead Sea

Kalia Beach offers a paid-entry beach experience with amenities like sun loungers, showers, and shops selling Dead Sea products.

3. Wadi David

Wadi David

Wadi David, part of En Gedi Nature Park, is a lush oasis perfect for hiking and exploring ancient ruins.

4. Wadi Arugot

Wadi Arugot

Wadi Arugot offers trails with pools and waterfalls, and nearby ancient synagogue ruins.

5. Ein Kedim Hot Springs

Dead Sea coast around Ein Kedim

Ein Kedim beach is a free-access area with natural hot springs along the Dead Sea shore.

6. Ein Bokek

Ein Bokek Beach

Ein Bokek is a resort area with spa hotels and Ein Bokek Beach, offering free facilities and nearby dining options.

7. Wadi Bokek

Wadi Bokek

Wadi Bokek is an accessible hiking area with scenic beauty, located near Ein Bokek.

8. Neve Zohar

Neve Zohar

Neve Zohar offers a spa and hot springs, with a scenic hike to the ancient Mezad Zohar fortress.

9. Mount Sodom

Mount Sodom

Mount Sodom provides adventurous hiking and biking trails, with a unique low-altitude summit.

10. Arad

Arad

Arad is known for the Tel Arad archaeological site, featuring ancient Canaanite and Israelite ruins.

History & Information

The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, is a hypersaline lake with no life due to its high salt content. The main water source is the Jordan River, but reduced inflow has led to environmental concerns about the sea's future.