Eilat on a Budget: Cheap Activities and Affordable EatsEilat, Israel’s southernmost resort city on the Red Sea, is known for its coral reefs, year-round sunshine, and lively tourist scene. You don’t need a big budget to enjoy Eilat — with a little planning, you can experience beaches, nature, food, and culture affordably. This guide covers low-cost activities, budget-friendly places to eat, money-saving tips, and sample itineraries so you can make the most of Eilat without overspending.
Why Eilat is a good budget destination
- Free or low-cost outdoor attractions: Beaches, promenades, and many natural sites are free to visit.
- Compact city: Many attractions are within walking distance or a short local bus ride.
- Off-season deals: Prices for accommodation and tours drop outside peak holiday periods.
- Local markets and simple eateries: Plenty of inexpensive food options like falafel, shawarma, and bakeries.
Cheap activities
Beaches and snorkeling
Eilat’s public beaches are free or have a small entrance fee; they offer sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
- Coral Beach Nature Reserve — snorkeling here is exceptional. Entrance has a fee, but bringing your own mask/snorkel and visiting during off-peak hours saves money.
- Mosh Beach and Migdalor Beach — good for families and free or low-cost.
Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear and reusable water bottle to avoid rental and purchase costs.
Walking and hiking
- The Red Canyon and nearby desert trails are reachable by local bus or inexpensive shared taxis (sherut). These hikes offer dramatic scenery without tour prices.
- Eilat Promenade (Tayelet) is perfect for a free evening stroll with sea views, street performers, and budget-friendly vendors.
Nature viewpoints and free attractions
- Watch the sunrise or sunset from the Eilat Mountains viewpoint — panoramic views are free.
- Visit the botanical gardens near the Bird Sanctuary for low-cost entrance and relaxing green space.
- The Coral World Underwater Observatory has an entrance fee but is often cheaper than a full diving/snorkeling excursion and provides great underwater views.
Budget-friendly marine experiences
- Instead of paid glass-bottom boat tours, look for community-run or discounted short rides from the marina.
- Join group snorkeling trips or look for last-minute tour deals at the marina for reduced prices.
Cultural and local experiences
- Explore the Eilat Market (Shuk HaPishpeshim and the Bedouin Market) — window shopping and soaking up local life is free, and small purchases like spices or snacks are inexpensive.
- Attend local events, open-air concerts, or festivals during off-peak times; many are free or low-cost.
Affordable eats
Street food and fast-casual staples
- Falafel and shawarma stands: Falafel or shawarma meals often cost less than a sit-down restaurant and are filling.
- Pita and hummus shops: Great for inexpensive vegetarian options.
- Bakeries (burekas, rugelach): Cheap snacks for breakfast or on-the-go.
Markets and groceries
- Buy fresh fruit, salads, and prepared foods at the local market for picnic-style meals.
- Supermarkets and convenience stores (e.g., Shufersal, Rami Levy) sell ready-made meals, water, and snacks at local prices — useful for saving on multiple meals.
Budget restaurants and cafés
- Small family-run restaurants often have fixed-price lunch specials (meat, rice, salad) that are cheaper than tourist restaurants.
- Look for coffee shops and cafés that offer combo deals (sandwich + coffee).
Tips to save on food
- Eat where locals eat — follow where small groups of residents are dining.
- Share large dishes or order mezzes to try more for less.
- Drink tap water after confirming it’s safe in your accommodation; otherwise buy larger bottles from supermarkets to reduce per-bottle cost.
Accommodation on a budget
- Hostels and guesthouses: Shared dorms and private rooms can be significantly cheaper than hotels.
- Airbnb and short-term rentals: Look for places a bit outside the main promenade for lower rates.
- Camping: If you have gear, camping in permitted areas near Eilat or organized campgrounds can be very economical.
- Off-season travel reduces nightly rates dramatically.
Money-saving transport tips
- Walk the central areas — many sights are close together.
- Use the local public bus network and sheruts (shared minibuses) instead of taxis.
- Consider renting a bike or e-bike for cheap short-distance travel along the promenade.
- For day trips (e.g., Timna Park or Petra if crossing border), book group tours or shared transfers rather than private transfers.
Sample 3-day budget itinerary
Day 1 — Beach & Promenade
- Morning: Free beach time at Mosh Beach (bring packed snacks).
- Afternoon: Snorkel with your own mask at a public reef.
- Evening: Walk the Eilat Promenade, eat falafel or shawarma from a local stand.
Day 2 — Nature & Market
- Morning: Bus to the Red Canyon for a hike (low transport cost).
- Afternoon: Visit the Botanical Gardens and the Bird Sanctuary (low entrance fee).
- Evening: Dinner at the market — fresh salad, hummus, and pita.
Day 3 — Marine views & local culture
- Morning: Coral World Underwater Observatory (compare prices for discounts).
- Afternoon: Explore the Eilat Market; buy snacks for a beach picnic.
- Evening: Sunset at the Eilat Mountains viewpoint, cheap takeaway dinner.
Practical tips and safety
- Sunscreen, hat, and reusable water bottle are must-haves to avoid buying overpriced items.
- Keep small change and an Israeli bank card or widely accepted payment method; many small vendors are cash-only.
- Check opening hours and seasonal closures, especially for nature reserves and markets.
- Respect local customs and the environment (don’t touch corals, avoid littering).
Quick checklist before you go
- Pack snorkel gear, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Download local bus maps and a translation app if you don’t speak Hebrew.
- Look up hostel or guesthouse reviews and book in advance for the best deals.
Eilat can be enjoyed on a modest budget by focusing on free outdoor attractions, eating where locals do, and choosing low-cost accommodations and transport. With beaches, desert hikes, markets, and affordable food, you can have a rich Red Sea experience without overspending.
Leave a Reply