Coral Beach Nature Reserve

Eilat · Southern District · Israel

The Coral Beach Nature Reserve in Eilat is a marine treasure of global significance. Located at the extreme northern reach of the Gulf of Aqaba, approximately 7 kilometres south of Eilat's city centre on the road to the Taba border crossing, it protects the northernmost shallow-water coral reef on the planet. Established in 1966, it is one of the oldest marine reserves in the Middle East and has served as a model for coral reef conservation worldwide. The reserve stretches along 1.2 kilometres of shoreline, and beneath the surface, a remarkably dense and healthy coral reef slopes from the shore into the deep blue waters of the gulf. Over 100 species of stony coral build the reef framework, creating a complex three-dimensional habitat that supports approximately 650 species of fish. The density and diversity of life here, compressed into a relatively compact area, makes every dive and snorkel a discovery. The reef begins just metres from shore, with Moses Rock at 6 metres and Joshua Rock at 8 metres serving as familiar landmarks on the marked underwater trail. Beyond these formations, the reef slope continues to around 30 metres, with hard coral cover becoming denser and more varied with depth. Table corals, brain corals, fire corals, and branching corals create a mosaic of textures and forms, with territorial damselfish, colourful parrotfish, and elegant butterflyfish darting among them. Larger residents include moray eels, lionfish, stonefish (well camouflaged and best avoided), groupers, and occasionally humphead wrasses. Octopuses are frequently spotted by sharp-eyed divers, and the anemone colonies host clownfish that have delighted generations of visitors. At night, the reef comes alive with hunting crustaceans, sleeping parrotfish wrapped in mucus cocoons, and foraging basket stars. The reserve is managed with strict conservation regulations. Touching or standing on coral is prohibited, dive groups are limited in size, and a marked underwater trail helps distribute visitor impact across the reef. These decades of careful management have paid off -- the reef remains in remarkably good health despite being adjacent to a busy tourist city. Shore entry is straightforward, and the calm, current-free conditions make this an ideal site for divers of all levels and an outstanding snorkelling destination.