(Ministry of Tourism News Bulletin)
In a recent posting by the
National Geographic website, Tel Aviv was ranked as one of the top ten oceanfront cities of the world, joining San Diego, Tallinn, St John’s, Marseille, Perth, Brisbane, Durban, Vladivostok and Portland. National Geographic groups these cities together, saying that the “glittering seascapes provide both the backdrop and the beat of these waterfront urban meccas.”
Almost a national passtime - playing "matkot" on the beach
There’s always plenty of action along Tel Aviv’s shoreline. Tel Aviv-Yafo boasts nearly 9 miles and 13 beaches along its shores, equipped with lounge chairs, restaurants, bars, outdoor gyms, children’s playgrounds and a promenade along the shore line with continual movement from walkers, joggers or those just enjoying the view and taking a stroll.
Often referred to as “the city that doesn’t sleep,” the shoreline of Tel Aviv boasts dozens of restaurants, cafes, and ice cream parlors busy all day long, while pubs, discos and jazz clubs blossom after dark. Regardless of the hour, there is always something happening on the sea front, from clowns and caricaturists to tattoo artists, hair-braiders and magicians, as well as the popular and iconic paddle-ball game called matkot and even Israeli folk-dancing.
The Tel Aviv shoreline
Four beaches are accessible to people with disabilities: Tzuk, Northern Tzuk, Metzizim and Hilton (all in the northern part of the city). Lifeguard and tourist police services are available during the official bathing season of May through October. The city’s beaches are well-equipped with changing rooms, showers and toilets.