Three northern beaches at the Dead Sea

There are three beaches at the northern end of the Dead Sea. We have not spent time at any of these beaches and the following comparisons were made by AI. Do let us know if there are inaccuracies in these descriptions. Call also to be sure that their facilities are operating. If you are looking for somewhere quiet, check also whether there is piped music.

Kalia Beach (חוף קליה)

Telephone: 076-5752116

Opening hours:

Summer: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Winter: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Open seven days a week.

Admission (2026):

Adults: 45 NIS
Children aged 3–12: 35 NIS
Senior citizens: 35 NIS

These prices include parking, beach chairs, umbrellas, and shuttle transportation to the water.

Facilities and attractions:

Kalia is the northernmost of the three beaches and is operated by Kibbutz Kalia.

Its principal attractions include:

Natural Dead Sea mud available without an additional charge.
The famous Lowest Bar in the World, overlooking the Dead Sea.
A shuttle service transporting visitors between the entrance and the water.
Hot showers, changing rooms, lockers, and shaded seating.
A cosmetics shop selling Dead Sea products.
Camel rides and massage treatments.
Designated barbecue areas.
A restaurant operating on selected days.

Kalia emphasizes a relaxed beach atmosphere rather than extensive resort facilities. Kalia is probably the best choice for visitors primarily interested in experiencing the Dead Sea itself. The shuttle is particularly useful because the receding shoreline has increased the distance between the entrance and the water.

2. Biankini Beach (חוף ביאנקיני)

Official website:

Telephone: 02-9400266

Opening hours: Generally 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., although some pages advertise later closing times.

Facilities and attractions: Biankini is quite different from Kalia. It is part of a substantial holiday resort with a distinctive Moroccan theme.

Its facilities include:

A supervised private Dead Sea beach.
Natural mineral mud.
A large swimming pool and children's pool.
Approximately 100 guest rooms and suites.
Moroccan-style architecture and decorations.
A restaurant specializing in Moroccan cuisine.
Landscaped gardens and lawns.
A synagogue.
Camping facilities.
Event and conference facilities.
Parking and Wi-Fi.

Biankini is more of a holiday village than simply a beach. Its Moroccan atmosphere is particularly distinctive, and its accommodation facilities make it suitable for visitors planning to stay overnight. For families, the swimming pools and other facilities provide alternatives to spending the entire visit in the Dead Sea. However, visitors should confirm which resort facilities are included in the daily beach admission price.

3. Neve Midbar Beach (חוף נווה מדבר)

Official website:

Telephone: 02-9942781

Opening hours: Generally 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Admission (2026):

95 NIS per person

Facilities and attractions: Neve Midbar is another developed beach complex, particularly popular with families, organized groups, and tourists.

Its facilities include:

A supervised Dead Sea bathing beach.
Abundant natural mineral mud.
Freshwater swimming pool.
Children's swimming pool.
Large grassy areas.
An air-conditioned kosher meat restaurant overlooking the Dead Sea.
A bar serving drinks and snacks.
Showers, toilets, and changing rooms.
Glamping accommodation.
Facilities for organized groups and special events.

One of Neve Midbar's most important advantages is its combination of a natural Dead Sea beach with freshwater swimming pools and spacious lawns. Its kosher restaurant is another significant feature, particularly for observant Jewish visitors and organized groups. The beach actively caters to tour guides and incoming tourism groups, offering meal arrangements and facilities for group visits.

Overlooking the beach at Neve Midbar

Relaxing some distance from the beach at Neve Midbar

Comparisons: The northern basin is continually shrinking, and its shoreline has retreated substantially. Consequently, access to the water can involve a considerable walk, although Kalia provides a shuttle. For older visitors or people with walking difficulties, this is an important consideration. There is no overwhelming difference between the three beaches in terms of the actual experience of floating in the Dead Sea and applying natural mud. The significant differences are in the additional facilities:

Kalia: Best for a straightforward Dead Sea experience.
Biankini: Best for a resort-style holiday.
Neve Midbar: Best for families, groups, and visitors wanting swimming pools and kosher dining.

Swimming in the Dead Sea

Swimming in the Dead Sea can be a painful and unpleasant experience if you are not prepared. Do not swim if you have any cuts or sores, including anal sores. Do not shave with an open razor on the day you are swimming. You will need footwear to get to the beach and perhaps to swim also to protect against salt crystals and rocks. Keep your head above water at all times.