Dolphin Reef, Eilat Travel Guide

Experience the magic of Dolphin Reef in Eilat - where serene beaches, lush gardens, and friendly dolphins create an unforgettable marine adventure.

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Dolphin Reef

Nestled along the stunning Red Sea coast, Dolphin Reef in Eilat is a unique and magical destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and marine adventure. This serene spot offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, especially with the playful and friendly dolphins that call this place home. Dolphin Reef is not just about dolphins; it is an all-encompassing experience. The lush, tropical gardens provide a tranquil escape, perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation. The private beach invites you to bask in the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. For those looking to dive deeper, the onsite diving and snorkeling activities offer an intimate glimpse into the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea. One of the highlights of Dolphin Reef is the chance to swim and interact with the dolphins in their natural habitat. These encounters are conducted with the utmost respect for the animals, ensuring a memorable and ethical experience. Additionally, the site features a unique relaxation area with heated pools, waterfalls, and floating beds, providing a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and wonder.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dolphin Reef.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Don't miss the relaxation pools; they are a perfect way to unwind after your dolphin encounter.
Bring an underwater camera to capture the vibrant marine life during your snorkeling or diving experience.
Book your dolphin swim in advance, as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Explore Dolphin Reef: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Dolphin Reef

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Dolphin Reef

Explore Dolphin Reef in Eilat, where unforgettable encounters with dolphins and stunning marine life await in a breathtaking Red Sea setting.

4.6

Dekel Beach

Experience the beauty of Dekel Beach in Eilat, a stunning public beach offering relaxation, adventure, and vibrant nightlife activities.

4.5

Hananya Beach - חוף חנניה ספורט ימי ושייט

Discover the beauty and adventure of Hananya Beach in Eilat, Israel, where relaxation meets thrilling water sports and stunning natural scenery.

4.3

Camel Ranch- Eilat

Experience the magic of Eilat's desert at Camel Ranch, where camel rides and Bedouin culture come together for an unforgettable adventure.

4.4

Best landmarks in Dolphin Reef

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Underwater Observatory Park

Discover the mesmerizing marine life at Eilat's Underwater Observatory Park, a unique aquarium experience showcasing the wonders of the Red Sea.

4.5

Eilat Coral Beach Nature Reserve

Discover the enchanting Eilat Coral Beach Nature Reserve, Israel's only coral reef, ideal for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying stunning coastal views.

4.6

Dolphin Reef

Experience the magic of swimming with dolphins and explore the beauty of the Red Sea at Dolphin Reef in Eilat, a serene marine sanctuary.

4.6

Eilat Light

Discover Eilat Light: A vibrant beachfront grill restaurant offering fresh seafood and grilled delights with stunning views of the Red Sea.

4.5

Best restaurants in Dolphin Reef

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Dolphin Reef Restaurant

Experience exquisite seafood and stunning sea views at Dolphin Reef Restaurant in Eilat – a true culinary delight!

4.4

Best bars in Dolphin Reef

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Three Monkeys

Discover Eilat's lively nightlife at Three Monkeys Pub, where great drinks and unforgettable experiences await every visitor.

4.3

Paddy's

Paddy's: Experience authentic Irish hospitality and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Eilat.

4.2

Mike's Place Eilat

Experience the lively spirit of Mike's Place Eilat – a premier destination for American cuisine, live music, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

4.3

Bar Beach - ברביץ'

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Bar Beach, Eilat's premier beachside restaurant, where culinary delight meets coastal beauty.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Dolphin Reef

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U Coral Beach Club

Discover beachfront luxury and vibrant activities at U Coral Beach Club in Eilat, a perfect getaway for families and adventurers alike.

4.3

Leonardo Club Eilat

Discover the ultimate all-inclusive experience at Leonardo Club Eilat, where luxury meets adventure and relaxation by the Red Sea.

4.6

Three Monkeys

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Three Monkeys Pub in Eilat, where great drinks, lively music, and unforgettable moments await you.

4.3

קלאב אין אילת

Experience luxury and adventure at Club Inn Eilat, your gateway to stunning beaches and vibrant attractions in Israel's premier resort city.

4.1

Best shops in Dolphin Reef

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Azrieli Mall Hayam

Explore Azrieli Mall Hayam in Eilat, the ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, perfect for every traveler.

4.2

Big Eilat

Experience the excitement of shopping in Eilat at Big Eilat, the ultimate shopping mall with tax-free deals and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Dolphin Reef

Discover the wonders of Dolphin Reef in Eilat, where unforgettable dolphin encounters and stunning coral reefs await every visitor.

4.6

Royal Garden

Experience unparalleled luxury and comfort at the Royal Garden, Eilat's premier hotel destination for relaxation and adventure.

4.5

Explore Dolphin Reef on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Dolphin Reef, mapped for you.

Dolphin Reef Essentials

Dolphin Reef is located at the southernmost tip of Eilat, easily accessible from other parts of the city. From Eilat's main bus station, you can take a taxi or use local buses that run along the coastal road. The journey should take approximately 10-15 minutes by car or bus. If you are coming from Eilat Airport, taxis are available and will take around 5-10 minutes to reach Dolphin Reef.
Dolphin Reef is a relatively small area, making it easy to explore on foot. There are also local taxis available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. Bicycles can be rented from various shops in Eilat, providing a fun way to explore the coastal area. Public transportation is limited, but buses do connect Dolphin Reef to other neighborhoods in Eilat.
Dolphin Reef is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. While Eilat is known for its low crime rate, petty theft can occur, particularly in tourist-heavy spots. It's advisable to stay vigilant around markets and beaches.
In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police, 101 for ambulance, and 102 for fire services. Eilat has a local hospital, and several clinics are available for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies can be found throughout the city for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable beach attire, but avoid nudity on public beaches. Don’t wear overly revealing clothing outside of the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in any religious contexts. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile; a simple 'Shalom' works well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t waste food or refuse hospitality, as it can be considered rude.
To experience Dolphin Reef like a local, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are thinner. Engage with the staff at Dolphin Reef for insights about marine life and conservation efforts. Don't miss the opportunity to snorkel or dive with dolphins, as this is a unique experience. For dining, seek out local eateries away from the main tourist spots for more authentic cuisine at better prices.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Dolphin Reef

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Dolphin Reef. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [Shalom]
- Goodbyeלהתראות
  [Lehitraot]
- Yesכֵּן
  [Ken]
- Noלֹא
  [Lo]
- Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [Bevakasha]
- Thank youתודה
  [Toda]
- Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [Slicha]
- How are you?אֵיך אתה?
  [Eich Ata?]
- Fine. And you?טוב. ואתה?
  [Tov. Veata?]
- Do you speak English?האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [Ha'Im Ata Medaber Anglit?]
- I don't understandאני לא מבין
  [Ani Lo Mevin]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseאשמח לראות את התפריט, בבקשה
  [Eshmech Lir'ot Et Hataprit, Bevakasha]
- I don't eat meatאני לא אוכל בשר
  [Ani Lo Ochel Basar]
- Cheers!לחיים!
  [Lachayim!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseאשמח לשלם, בבקשה
  [Eshmech Leshalem, Bevakasha]
- Help!עזרה!
  [Ezra!]
- Go away!לך לעבור!
  [Lech Le'avor!]
- Call the Police!קרא למשטרה!
  [Kara Lemishtara!]
- Call a doctor!קרא לרופא!
  [Kara Larofe!]
- I'm lostאני אבוד
  [Ani Avud]
- I'm illאני חולה
  [Ani Choleh]
- I'd like to buy...אשמח לקנות...
  [Eshmech Liknot...]
- I'm just lookingרק סתם מסתכל
  [Rak Satam Mestakel]
- How much is it?כמה עולה זה?
  [Kama Ole Ze?]
- That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Ze Yakar Me'od]
- Can you lower the price?אפשר להוריד את המחיר?
  [Efshar Lehored Et Hamachir?]
- What time is it?מה השעה?
  [Ma Hasha'a?]
- It's one o'clockהשעה אחת
  [Hasha'a Echat]
- Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (Eser)]
- Morningבוקר
  [Boker]
- Afternoonצהריים
  [Tzohorayim]
- Eveningערב
  [Erev]
- Yesterdayאתמול
  [Etmol]
- Todayהיום
  [Hayom]
- Tomorrowמחר
  [Mahar]
- 1אחד
  [Echad]
- 2שניים
  [Shnayim]
- 3שלוש
  [Shalosh]
- 4ארבע
  [Arba]
- 5חמש
  [Chamesh]
- 6שש
  [Shesh]
- 7שבע
  [Sheva]
- 8שמונה
  [Shmone]
- 9תשע
  [Tisha]
- 10עשר
  [Eser]
- Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא...
  [Eifo Nimtza...]
- What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [Ma Haktovet?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?אפשר להראות לי (על המפה)?
  [Efshar Lehare'ot Li (Al Hamapa)?]
- When's the next (bus)?מתי האוטובוס הבא?
  [Matay Ha'otobus Haba?]
- A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל...)
  [Kartis (Le...)]

History of Dolphin Reef

Dolphin Reef, located on the southern shores of Eilat, was established in the 1990s as a marine sanctuary aimed at protecting the local dolphin population. This area has become known for its unique interaction between humans and dolphins, providing a natural habitat for the bottlenose dolphins that have frequented the Gulf of Aqaba for centuries.
The Red Sea, where Dolphin Reef is situated, has been an important trade route since ancient times. The nearby city of Eilat, known as Elath in biblical times, served as a port for trade and commerce, connecting the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean world. This rich maritime history continues to influence the cultural fabric of Eilat today.
In response to the increasing awareness of marine conservation, Dolphin Reef became a pioneering model for eco-tourism in Israel. The facility emphasizes the importance of preserving marine life, providing educational programs that highlight the ecological significance of the Gulf of Aqaba and the delicate balance of its ecosystems.
Dolphin Reef has significantly contributed to the local economy of Eilat, transforming the area into a popular tourist destination. This influx of visitors supports various local businesses, from hotels to restaurants, and promotes a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility among tourists and residents alike.
The establishment of Dolphin Reef has fostered marine research initiatives, drawing scientists and researchers interested in studying marine biology and the behavior of dolphins in their natural habitat. This research has not only enhanced our understanding of marine life but also contributed to global conservation efforts.