Imagine golden sands stretching all the way to meet the shimmering blue sea. That’s the paradise that awaits you at Nitzanim Beach, the one and only regulated bathing beach between Ashdod and Ashkelon. Let’s dive into all the fun and excitement this fantastic destination has to offer!
Getting to Nitzanim Beach
First things first, how to get here? Nitzanim Beach is just 50 km south of Tel Aviv. You can access it from the Ashkelon North interchange on Route 4, approximately 16 km south of the Ashdod interchange.
At the interchange turn west and north towards Nitzan and Nitzanim Beach (turn right for those coming from Gush Dan and Ashdod, left for those coming from Ashkelon).
After 3.4 km, at the Nitzan border, turn left towards the bathing beach, pass a military base, and reach the cash registers. The cash registers themselves are about a kilometer from the beach. The driving distance from the main road to the beach is about 7.1 km.
About Nitzanim Beach
Once you arrive, you’ll discover two sections: the bathing beach, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea without lighting fires or setting up tents, and to the north of it, a camping area designated for tent enthusiasts. Wooden arbors offer a delightful shade, making it perfect for lounging with your family and friends.
For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, the Nitzanim nature reserve offers a walking trail, that takes you through the largest sand reserve on the coastal plain. Keep an eye out for Nitzanim Pools, stunning ponds formed by old quarries, now home to mesmerizing bank vegetation and a variety of birds and animals.
But Nitsanim Beach is not just about relaxation and beauty; it’s also a place of historical significance. On March 12, 1947, when the immigration ship “Shabatai Luzinsky” docked here, one of the last immigration ships that managed to reach the shores of the country after the British blockade that prevented the docking of many ships in the late 1940s. British soldiers harassed the immigrants, who mingled with the residents of the area. When the people were asked about their identity they replied “I am a Jew from the Land of Israel”. The British arrested 900 people who were taken to Haifa, and most of them were deported the next day to camps in Cyprus (including Israelis who were mistakenly identified as applicants). Haim Hafer wrote his poem “Shoshana” about this affair, at least allegedly, as the original name of the ship was “Suzana” and the people of the Mossad Laaliya B” named the ship “Shoshana”.
The second incident happened at the beach on May 30, 1990, when an attack by terrorists who left by ship from Libya and arrived on The Holiday of Shavuot at Nitzanim beach, a little south of the bathing beach, was foiled here. In an exchange of fire with IDF forces, four terrorists were killed and twelve others were captured, without any casualties to our forces.
Beach Facilities and Timing
Now, when it comes to practicalities, Nitzanim Beach has got you covered. There are facilities for every beachgoer, including paid parking, wet toilets, changing rooms, a lifeguard station, and even a restaurant to satisfy those beach cravings. Just be aware that accessibility for disabled individuals is limited, so it’s worth checking ahead.
Mark your calendars because Nitzanim Beach is known for hosting fantastic events and parties that add an extra splash of fun to your visit. If you plan to camp overnight, make sure to inquire about any upcoming events to join in on the festivities!
And let’s not forget about the breathtaking blooms! If you visit in March-April, you’ll witness the coastal plants in full bloom, with Sabion Jaffa and Du-park Khofi showcasing their vibrant colors. But if you come around August-September, the beach lilies will be the stars, gracing the sandy landscape with their delicate beauty.
So, whether you’re a sunbather, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Nitsanim Beach has something extraordinary for everyone. Pack your beach towels, shades, and picnic baskets because an unforgettable adventure awaits you at Nitsanim Beach!
Nitzanim Sand Dunes Nature Reserve
Nestled on the coastal plain, the Nitzanim Sands Dunes Reserve boasts an expanse of sandy landscapes like no other. Let’s explore the diverse and captivating elements that make this reserve a true natural wonder!
As you step into the reserve, you’ll encounter mesmerizing stabilized budding sands adorned with a lush cover of vegetation. Venturing further, you’ll reach the edge of the sands, where a unique “park forest” of sycamores and ash trees greets you. Unfortunately, this enchanting woodland has faced challenges due to development, but its beauty remains.
Nahal Ataf, a flowing stream within the reserve, enhances the landscape with its high groundwater. Along its course, you’ll find a captivating concentration of Euphrates poplar trees, adding to the area’s natural allure.
The reserve’s seasonal pools are also a sight to behold! Roberts Pool and Nitzanim Pool, situated on the reserve’s border, offer a haven for various amphibians in the winter.
As you explore the 589 dunams of coastal waters within the reserve, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. The reserve is home to a diverse array of creatures: Keep an eye out for herds of deer, playful foxes, and curious rodents. Among the reptiles, the magnificent gray power lizard stands out, being the largest of its kind in our country.
Adding an extra touch of historical intrigue, the area also holds remnants of ancient agriculture, including sycamore trees, dates, and vines. Unnamed archaeological sites scattered throughout the reserve give a glimpse into the area’s past.
So, if you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking an awe-inspiring adventure, make sure to put Nitzanim Sands Dunes Reserve at the top of your must-visit list! This magical reserve promises a journey through enchanting landscapes and an unforgettable encounter with Israel’s natural wonders. Let’s get exploring!
