Metzitzim Beach sits on Tel Aviv's northern coast, a short walk from Tel Aviv Port. A breakwater shelters the cove, so the water stays calm and shallow, which suits young children and beginner swimmers. The fine sand is pale, and the beach has showers, changing rooms, a free beach library and a children's play area. Umbrellas and chairs can be rented. The beach restaurant serves food right down to the water, and the beach bar is a good place to watch the sunset.
Where the name comes from
Metzitzim is the Hebrew word for a peeping Tom. The name comes from the 1970s Israeli film of the same title, made by Uri Zohar and Arik Einstein, which was shot on this stretch of sand.
The film made the beach a local icon, and it is still counted among the oldest and most loved beaches in the city. Visitors who know the film often look for the spots that appear in it.
The sea and the breakwater
The bay is cove-shaped and sheltered by a breakwater that reduces the impact of waves. Because of this, the sea is calm and the water is shallow near the shore.
A small lagoon inside the bay gives children a separate area to play and swim. Families often choose this beach for that reason, and the sand is golden and fine.
Facilities on the sand
Showers, changing rooms and toilets are on the beach. Free showers are part of the basic setup, and a free beach library lets visitors leave a book and take another one. A box of children's toys is also available at no cost.
The beach has three volleyball courts, a children's playground and an outdoor workout area. Accessibility features for visitors with disabilities are in place. The beach holds Blue Flag status, which is a mark of water quality and beach management.
Umbrellas and chairs can be rented at low prices. The restaurant on the sand serves food down to the water's edge, and it is a good place to order a cold drink and watch the horizon.
Walks and nearby sights
A wooden deck runs along the coast. Walking north from the beach, the deck passes the docking basin and continues to the Yarkon River estuary. From there, paths follow both banks of the river southeast to Park HaYarkon, a large grassy park in the city.
Tel Aviv Port is about three minutes away on foot. Its wooden deck is popular with cyclists and skaters, and it has several coffee options for a morning stop. Nordau Boulevard and Independence Park are also close.
To the south, the coastline continues to Hilton Beach and then Gordon Beach, which has a municipal pool on the waterfront.
Getting there and parking
The beach is easy to reach by public transport. Parking is available at the harbor lot and a nearby parking lot. Fees are high on Saturdays, and one recent source gave a parking price of 15 NIS.
The beach entrance itself is free of charge.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Metzitzim Beach?
The beach entrance is free of charge. Parking is paid, and one recent source gave a price of 15 NIS.
Is the water suitable for young children?
A breakwater keeps the waves low, and the sea is calm and shallow. A small lagoon gives children a separate place to play and swim.
Are there showers and toilets on the beach?
Yes. The beach has showers, changing rooms and toilets, and the showers are free.
How do I get to Metzitzim Beach?
The beach is easy to reach by public transport. Tel Aviv Port is about three minutes away on foot.
