Explore North Mediterranean Coast
Diving along the North Mediterranean Coast of Israel offers a unique blend of vibrant marine life and varied underwater landscapes. Here, divers can explore shallow sandy bottoms interspersed with rising rocks, creating a captivating geographic tapestry. The best seasons for diving are autumn and spring, when the waters are calm for extended periods. This tranquility allows for an uninterrupted exploration of the region's treasures, including historical shipwrecks and sites of underwater archaeology. With temperatures ranging from 16°C/61°F in winter to 28°C/82°F in the summer, the area provides a comfortable diving experience year-round.
Marine enthusiasts will delight in encountering an abundance of reef fish, dolphins, and even sharks, particularly in winter when shark diving becomes a top attraction. Additionally, high visibility, often reaching depths of up to 40 meters/131 feet, makes it an excellent spot for underwater photography. Most dive sites are conveniently accessible from the shore, though some may require a short boat ride. For those looking to dive, plenty of local dive centers offer equipment rentals and guided tours, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience.
Dive Activity
Diving in North Mediterranean Coast
Along Israel's North Mediterranean Coast, divers can explore some of the most exciting underwater sites. The "Satil" wreck, a former missile boat in Eilat, offers a thrilling wreck dive with its diverse marine life and vibrant coral growth. Popular shore dives include the "Coral Beach Nature Reserve," where colorful coral reefs and schools of fish provide an unforgettable experience. For those interested in night dives, "Gordon Reef" reveals nocturnal marine behaviors, including the captivating dance of phosphorescent plankton.
Divers can enjoy a balance between shore and liveaboard diving options. Shore diving is easily accessible, with many entry points along the coastline, allowing for spontaneous dives. Liveaboard trips offer more extensive exploration, taking divers to less frequented spots and providing the opportunity to dive multiple sites in one trip. This region is ideal for both novice and experienced divers seeking diverse underwater landscapes and marine encounters.
Top Wildlife Sightings in North Mediterranean Coast
The North Mediterranean Coast of Israel offers a diverse array of marine life, attracting divers with its vibrant ecosystem. Common reef fish include the colorful Mediterranean damselfish and the ornate wrasse, both frequently observed around rocky reefs and seagrass beds. The region's warm months bring an increase in visibility, making it prime time for observing these species in their natural habitat.
Seasonal highlights include visits from loggerhead and green sea turtles, especially from late spring to early fall. Divers may also encounter the elusive common stingray, often seen gliding over sandy bottoms. Although sighting sharks is rare, the occasional sandbar shark may be spotted during summer, particularly near deeper waters. Overall, the likelihood of encountering these creatures varies with the seasons and diving locations along the coast.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
55 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
Moray Eel
48 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
Octopus
33 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
Wrasse
16 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 25
iStock/Juliosanjuan
Eagle Ray
7 Sightings
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AdobeStock-Marc Henauer
Grey Reef Shark
111 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 250
Shutterstock-Henry_and_Laura_Whittaker
Grouper/Basslets
101 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 80
iStock/Extreme-Photographer
Stingrays
76 Sightings
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iStock_strmko
Silky Shark
74 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 12
iStock/cinoby
Lionfish
54 Sightings
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The best Months to dive in North Mediterranean Coast
The North Mediterranean Coast of Israel offers favorable diving conditions throughout the year, with water temperatures ranging from 16°C–28°C/61°F–82°F. During the winter months, temperatures are cooler, with averages around 16°C/61°F, while summer sees them rise to 28°C/82°F. Visibility is generally excellent, often exceeding 20 meters/66 feet, especially from late spring to early autumn when the sea is calmer.
Diving is possible year-round, although winter can bring stronger winds and currents, reducing visibility and making sea conditions rougher. These factors might deter some divers. However, the rest of the year provides optimal conditions, with mild weather and minimal current interference, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced divers planning their trips.
