Family Friendly Activities in Israel

Kid-Friendly Beaches and Parks

Israel’s beaches and amusement parks offer activities for children of all ages. Some of the top beaches for families include Tel Aviv beach along the Mediterranean coast, perfect for building sandcastles. Eilat’s beaches on the Red Sea are also excellent for swimming and water sports. Be sure to bring swim toys, buckets, and toys to keep the little ones entertained. Luna Park in Tel Aviv and Ramat Gan Park in Ramat Gan are two of Israel’s largest amusement parks, loaded with rides like carousels, bumper cars, and miniature roller coasters perfect for younger kids. Older kids will enjoy more adventurous rides at amusement parks across Israel. Most parks have height restrictions, so check individual ride requirements. Picnic areas let families enjoy meals together between activities.

Exploring Caves and Nature Sites

Some of Israel’s most fascinating natural landmarks appeal to curious minds of all ages. The magnificent sea-grottoes at Rosh Hanikra on the Mediterranean coast feature awe-inspiring limestone caves and grottos formed by the surf. Kids can clamber over footbridges and along pathways as waves crash below. Nearby in Latrun are underground caves and stalagmites providing families active exploration for kids along illuminated pathways. Further south, peek inside the limestone caves near the town of Bet Shemesh to discover towering cave formations. Bring sturdy shoes for these natural areas.

Hands-On Museums and Factories

Israel’s variety of museums bring history and science alive through interactive exhibits perfect for engaging young minds. The Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv features a children’s activity center where kids can dress in costumes or help archaeologists dig in a sandbox. Haifa’s Technion Science Museum offers hundreds of hands-on exhibits related to topics like mechanics and electricity sure to spark curiosity. Families also enjoy guided tours of working factories like the Tnuva Dairy visitor center in Petakh Tikva or Elite chocolate factory in Bnei Brak where children see how their favorite snacks are made.

Outdoor Adventures in Nature Reserves

Israel boasts beautiful nature reserves ideal for families seeking fresh air and activities in nature. Banias Nature Reserve in the Golan Heights features waterfalls and hiking trails along the basalt cliffs above the Banias River gorge. At Ein Gedi Nature Reserve near the Dead Sea, short walks lead past oases and waterfalls where families might spot ibex or see colorful fish in the streams. Near Eilat, the Coral Beach Nature Reserve offers ideal conditions for snorkeling and viewing coral and tropical fish through a glass-bottom boat. Reserve entry tickets are inexpensive for families and include informative exhibits.

Historical Sites and Museums

Israel’s rich history comes alive through engaging museums and archaeological sites. At the Beit She’an National Park, Roman-era ruins include an amphitheater and excavation projects where families watch archaeologists at work. Nearby are the Hisham Palace gardens with fountains and mosaic floors. The Masada fortress offers cable cars and paths running the span of the mountain for memorable views of the Dead Sea. Jerusalem and its surrounding areas showcase history through the Tower of David Museum, the Model of Herod’s Temple, and climbing via the Kidmat Zion children’s museum inside the walls of the Old City. Most sites reduce ticket costs for children.

Wonderful Ways to Wrap Up the Day

After a full day of exploration and activity, Israel’s restaurants, attractions, and events provide fun evening experiences for tired little feet. Picnic dinners under strings of lights at parks or beaches let families extend their time outdoors. Summer festivals at kibbutzim, moshavs, and towns feature live performances, games, and kid-friendly activities into the evening hours. End the day with ice cream at old-fashioned parlors or shushes like Abu Hassan in Jaffa, a kid-pleasing tradition. Outdoor movie nights or magic shows round out itineraries to keep all travelers entertained through sunset.