The hottest season in Israel is a perfect time to freshen up on a wide variety of attractions awaiting you. From north to south, here’s a list of the top activities to check out.
The warm weather is perfect for travelling across the country, and charming, open-air rest areas can be found throughout your travels for comfortable breaks along the way.
Northern Israel: Water, Nature & Adventure
Northern Israel is a paradise for families during the summer months, offering both breathtaking nature and high-energy activities. For place to cool off or have an adventure, consider:
- Kayaking in the Jordan River & Hatzbani – Navigate gentle rapids and lush greenery. The Jordan River & Hatzbani are perfect for kids and adults.
- Hiking Along Streams Like Banias, Snir & Ayun – Enjoy well-marked trails with shaded paths and natural wading pools to cool down in along the way.
- Sea of Galilee (Kinneret) – Israel’s beloved freshwater lake offers public beaches, water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, and family picnic areas. For more information about Sea of Galilee, click here.
- Bahá’í Gardens in Haifa – A stunning, serene site with symmetrical terraces and breathtaking views, great for a quiet morning stroll.
- Gan Hashlosha (Sakhne) – A natural spring pool with warm water year-round, surrounded by grassy lawns and shaded sitting areas.
- Valley of the Springs (Emek Hamaayanot) – This valley features multiple accessible water springs and quiet scenic areas perfect for a relaxing break.
- Etgar BaHar & Monfort Lake Rope Parks – Two adventure parks featuring zip lines, climbing walls and rope courses .
Travel Tip: While northern Israel is rich in water-based fun, it can still get very hot in July and August, especially away from the coast. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen and plan hikes for the morning or late afternoon.
Rope Park in Galilee. Photo by Ozrot Hagalil
Central Israel: Beaches, Markets & Cool Escapes
Central Israel offers a great mix of coast, culture, shopping and shade, making it ideal for summer exploration, even during the hottest days:
- Tel Aviv Beaches – From Gordon Beach to Banana and Hilton, enjoy soft sand, shaded areas, beachfront cafés and summer vibes all day long.
- Carmel Market & Sarona Market (Tel Aviv) – Bustling markets full of colors, flavors and sounds. Discover fresh produce, gourmet street food, boutique shops and a uniquely Israeli atmosphere.
- Air-Conditioned Malls – Take refuge from the heat in Tel Aviv’s top malls like TLV Fashion Mall and Azrieli Center. They host summer sales, pop-up exhibits and family workshops.
- Masada – Though technically on the edge of the Judean Desert, it’s accessible from the central Israel. Hike at sunrise or ride the cable car to this ancient fortress with panoramic views and rich history.
Tip: Plan beach time for early morning or late afternoon and take advantage of indoor attractions during peak heat hours.
Jerusalem & Its Surroundings: History with a Twist
Jerusalem in the summer offers a unique mix of ancient history, vibrant markets and interactive museums – all within a city that comes alive during the evenings:
- The Western Wall – Visit one of the most sacred and historic places in the world. The atmosphere is especially captivating during the late afternoon and evening hours.
- Mahane Yehuda Market – During the day explore fresh produce, spices and local flavors. At night, the market transforms into a lively hub filled with bars, live music and street food.
- Bible Lands Museum – Young Wizards School – A summer-only program where children create potions, learn folklore, and experience the magic of ancient cultures in a fun and theatrical way.
- City of David & Tower of David Night Tours – Discover ancient tunnels, archaeological findings, and light shows that bring Jerusalem’s history to life.
- Jerusalem Zoo – Extended summer hours feature guided evening tours, animal encounters and outdoor activities perfect for families escaping the midday sun.
Tip: Combine a visit to these sites with shaded city parks or indoor cafés to balance the heat with some downtime.
Southern Israel: Desert, Dead Sea & Cool Camping
Southern Israel offers a mix of natural wonders, desert serenity and family entertainment. Despite the desert sun, there’s plenty of ways to stay cool:
- Dead Sea – The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, offers a one of a kind experience. Float effortlessly on salty waters, coat yourself in therapeutic mud, and enjoy relaxing day spas nearby. The Dead Sea is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Timna Park – Located near Eilat, Timna Park combines beautiful desert scenery with family-friendly activities like torch-lit hikes, copper mine explorations, ancient rock formations, and even paddleboats on an artificial lake.
- Waterland Eilat – A colorful water park designed for all ages, offering slides, splash zones and shaded rest areas. Waterland Eilat is perfect for a hot summer day.
- Eilat Malls (Ice Mall, BIG Eilat) – Beat the heat in air-conditioned shopping centers featuring indoor skating rinks, arcades, interactive play zones and tax-free shopping.
- Camping in Hamalachim Forest – Near Kiryat Gat, this peaceful forest offers camping under the stars for free. Enjoy scenic lookout towers, picnic spots and proximity to Beit Guvrin National Park. Hamalachim Forest is a great option for families looking for an affordable, nature-based experience.
Tip: Desert areas get extremely hot during the summer. Always carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities in the early morning or near sunset.
Are you ready for picking Lychee? Lichi Festival
Seasonal Events & Unique Attractions
Israel’s summer season also brings with it one-of-a-kind experiences that only happen once a year. These special events and attractions combine nature, culture and hands-on fun for all ages:
- Lychee Festival in the Western Galilee
One of the sweetest fruits of the season, lychee is the star of this agricultural event. Families can enjoy self-picking at the “Falling in Love with Nature” farm, which also features a petting zoo, shaded picnic areas, herbal tea and Turkish coffee. Visitors receive a bag to fill with hand-picked fruit, and additional fruits (grapes, passion fruit, carob, and more) can be purchased separately.
- Night Grape Harvest at Yiftah’el Winery (Galilee)
A magical evening experience of grape picking and winemaking, designed for kids and adults alike. Children use special, kid-friendly machinery, and each participant gets a bottle with their name on the label. The experience includes fresh pita from a traditional taboon oven and a short film about the winery’s history.
- El Mona Gardens in Julis (Western Galilee)
A peaceful sculpture and water garden nestled in the Druze village of Julis. Stroll past canals, waterfalls, exotic flora and traditional installations like a flour mill and a symbolic boxcar. A great cultural and sensory experience.
- Etgar BaHar & Monfort Lake Extreme Parks
Adrenaline-packed rope parks in northern Israel featuring climbing routes, zip lines and obstacle courses designed for all ages. High safety standards and lush settings make these perfect spots for active families.
