Eilat's Coral Beach, National park and marine reserve in Eilat, Israel.
Eilat's Coral Beach is a marine reserve at the northern tip of the Red Sea that protects coral formations and diverse fish populations in shallow waters. The site spans several designated swimming zones connected by wooden walkways that allow visitors to observe the reef without disturbing it.
The site received protection status as a marine reserve in 1964, making it one of the earliest reef conservation efforts in the Middle East. This early designation reflected growing awareness of the need to safeguard such ecosystems from human impact.
Local divers and snorkelers come here regularly to observe fish behavior in their natural habitat, making it a living classroom for marine observation. The reef serves as a meeting point where visitors connect with the underwater world in a way few other places allow.
Visitors can rent snorkeling gear at the entrance and choose from marked areas with easy access points. Water conditions and visibility vary throughout the day, so early morning visits often offer better viewing.
The reef thrives in waters with higher salinity than typical ocean environments, showing remarkable resilience in challenging conditions. These unusual circumstances make it a natural laboratory for understanding how coral adapts to stress.
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