An Underwater Adventure in Israel at the Coral Beach Underwater Observatory
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If you're planning a trip to Israel, chances are you already have a list of sites to see as long as your arm. Historic marvels like Masada, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the Wailing Wall are naturally going to be must-see locations.
But what if you're looking for something a little bit different? Well, what would you say to an underwater adventure in a country mostly known for its deserts?
The Coral Beach Underwater Observatory in Eilat offers a rare glimpse of the world beneath the surface of the water. Built in 1974 near the Eilat's Coral Beach nature reserve, the aquarium/observatory is designed to give curious visitors a deeper appreciation for Israel's rich biodiversity, the spectacular intricacy and detail of God's design. 100 meters from the shoreline, the observatory includes both an above ground aquarium and educational exhibition area as well as an unbelievable underwater viewing experience below the waves.
12m below the surface with giant reinforced windows on all sides, the observatory offers a 360 degree view of life in the Red Sea. With no cages, walls, or barriers, this is a purely natural way to explore the depths of the Red Sea and its many treasures as it was meant to be seen. This up close and personal look gives viewers an intimate diver-like experience, but without the need to strap on any gear or get their feet wet! From the viewing windows, spectators can enjoy a living reef teaming with activity, cast in rich, bold colours you would never expect to be hiding just beneath the surface. With breathtaking corals and species unique to the Red Sea, it is a sight that will stay with you long after you're gone.
Aside from the underwater observation deck, the observatory includes many other attractions. One of its most impressive is a specialized darkroom used to fully demonstrate the majesty of some of the deep's most usual creatures. In this darkened exhibition, viewers can observe bioluminescent species of fish, aquatic wonders that create their own natural light sources with their bodies. These marvels cast their own strange lighting, creating dizzying displays and magical patterns as they weave their way in and out of the Red Sea corals. This natural light show looks more like something out of a sci-fi movie than what you'd expect to find in a desert nation!
Looking for something a little more intense? Than the Shark World exhibit is the place for you. A 7m deep tank that features some of the more dangerous dwellers of the local deeps. With over 18 different sharks, walruses, and sea bats calling the tank their home yet somehow living in harmony, it's an interesting and up-close view of the balance of nature. A transparent tunnel allows visitors to see these creatures close up, so you can fully appreciate just how scary it would be to inhabit the same waters as them! Come at the right time, and you can watch expert divers feed and manage these fearsome aquatic predators. Not for the faint of heart!
All told, the Coral Beach Underwater Observatory is home to over 800 species of fish, coral, sharks, mollusks, stingrays, and turtles. It is a massive sampling of the richness and natural splendor the Gulf of Eilat has to offer and an absolute treat if you can make time during a visit.
While there is no shortage of things to see while visiting the Holy Land, see if you can't make the time to stop by if you're in the area. If nothing else, you're guaranteed to get some amazing photos to carry home with you!
