Underwater Observatory Park Eilat: A Magical Marine Experience
Ever dreamed of walking on the ocean floor without getting wet? At Eilat’s Underwater Observatory, you can do just that! This incredible marine park, located at the southernmost point of Israel, lets you come face-to-face with the Red Sea’s most fascinating creatures while keeping your hair perfectly dry. The observatory has been welcoming international visitors for over three decades, offering a unique glimpse into one of the most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet.
Where the Magic Happens
📍 Coral Beach, Eilat, Israel Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Eilat, you’ll find this underwater wonderland nestled in the heart of a stunning coral reef. The observatory is easily accessible by taxi from any hotel in the city, or you can use the convenient local shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes from the hotel district. Many visitors combine their observatory visit with a stop at the nearby Coral Beach, making it a perfect full-day destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
What’s the Investment?
- Adults: $28 / €25 / £22
- Children (3-18): $22 / €20 / £17
- Students (with valid ID): $25 / €22 / £19
- Under 3: Free
- Family Package (2 adults + 2 children): $89 / €80 / £70
Pro tip: Book your tickets online through their official website to save 10% and skip the often lengthy entrance lines. All major international credit cards are accepted, and digital tickets can be displayed on your phone – no printing necessary. During peak season (July-August and major holidays), advance booking is highly recommended.
Why It’s Not Your Average Aquarium
The Tower of Fish-Power
Picture this: you’re standing in an engineering marvel that plunges 11 meters deep into the Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters. Through massive windows, you’re suddenly part of the underwater neighborhood, with visibility often extending beyond 20 meters in every direction. Schools of technicolor fish swim by like they’re on their daily commute, while moray eels peek out from their coral apartments. The observatory’s unique design allows you to observe marine life in their natural habitat, completely undisturbed by human presence. The two observation levels offer different perspectives, with the lower level providing an up-close view of the reef’s foundation.
Meet the Local Celebrities
The Red Sea is home to some of the world’s most spectacular marine life, and the observatory’s location puts you right in the middle of the action. You’ll spot the photogenic parrotfish munching on coral with their powerful beaks, creating the fine white sand that makes Eilat’s beaches famous. The resident leopard sharks often lounge around the observatory’s base, providing endless photo opportunities. Families of clownfish dart in and out of their anemone homes, while graceful sea turtles occasionally glide by, seemingly unbothered by their audience. Each visit offers a different experience, as the marine life follows natural patterns and behaviors.
Cool Stuff You Shouldn’t Miss
Shark Hall: Where Jaws Meets Safety Glass
The newly renovated shark hall features a 25-meter transparent tunnel that lets you walk through the heart of a shark habitat. Watch as various species, including blacktip reef sharks and zebra sharks, glide smoothly overhead. The hall also includes interactive displays explaining shark behavior and conservation efforts, helping visitors understand these often-misunderstood creatures. Regular feeding sessions (scheduled twice daily) offer particularly exciting viewing opportunities, and the multilingual staff provides fascinating commentary during these shows.
The Oceanarium: Mother Nature’s Movie Theater
Step into the state-of-the-art oceanarium, where high-definition screens and surround sound create an immersive deep-sea experience. The rotating selection of marine documentaries and live feeds from the observatory’s underwater cameras provides a deeper understanding of the Red Sea ecosystem. The comfortable, air-conditioned theater offers a perfect respite from the Eilat heat, while educational presentations run throughout the day in multiple languages. The spectacular “Deep Sea Adventures” show runs every hour on the hour, with subtitles available in various languages.
When to Visit for the Best Experience
Timing Your Visit
The marine life is most active between 10 AM and 2 PM, when natural sunlight penetrates the water at optimal angles, creating perfect visibility conditions. During summer months (June-September), we recommend arriving right when doors open at 8:30 AM to beat both the crowds and the intense afternoon heat. Winter visitors (October-May) might prefer mid-morning visits, as the water visibility tends to be exceptionally clear during these months, and the temperatures are more moderate.
Making the Most of Your Time
Plan for a 3-4 hour visit to fully experience everything the observatory has to offer. This allows time for watching both scheduled feeding shows, joining a guided tour (included in your ticket price), and exploring all exhibits at your own pace. The feeding demonstrations occur at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM daily, featuring different marine species at each show. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the morning light, which provides optimal conditions for underwater photography through the observatory windows.
Practical Information for Visitors
Facilities and Amenities
The observatory complex features modern amenities designed for international visitors’ comfort. The recently renovated café offers a diverse menu of international cuisine, with vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options available. All areas are wheelchair and stroller accessible, with elevators connecting different levels. Clean restrooms, including family-friendly facilities, are available throughout the complex. The gift shop stocks unique marine-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and high-quality underwater photography equipment.
What to Bring
We recommend bringing a light jacket even in summer, as the observation areas are air-conditioned. Don’t forget your camera – the observatory’s lighting is specifically designed to accommodate photography, though flash photography is prohibited in certain areas. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll be on your feet exploring the various exhibits. While water and snacks are available for purchase, you’re welcome to bring your own refreshments to enjoy in the designated picnic areas outside.
Special Programs and Seasonal Activities
Throughout the year, the observatory offers special programs and guided tours in multiple languages. These include behind-the-scenes tours and marine biology workshops for children and adults alike. Special activities require advance booking and often include unique opportunities like watching coral feeding or participating in marine conservation projects. For those interested in more in-depth experiences, the observatory partners with local diving centers to offer combination packages that include both observatory visits and guided snorkeling tours of the surrounding reef.