Eliat’s Underwater Observatory Marine Park is one of the biggest public aquariums in Israel and it has an unusual presentation. Visit Eilat in the southern part of the country to be amazed by over 800 species of marine life in large aquarium tanks. Gaze outside the underwater tower to appreciate the biodiversity in a coral reef on the other side of floor-to-ceiling plate glass windows.
The tower structure is impressive from land or water. You might initially mistake it as a modern lighthouse. Walk over a bridge to reach its position in the Gulf of Eilat. Stay dry and go 20 feet (6 meters) under the sea’s surface to walk beside a coral reef, which is a natural habitat open to the sea. Look for the diverse marine life in the area.
The aquariums on land hold rare fish and marine species indigenous to the Red Sea. Check the schedule for specific times throughout the day when divers feed the creatures and speak to the audience with underwater microphones. Divers can also hear and answer questions.
Observe sharks in their pool, as well as turtles and stingrays in viewing areas, as staff members provide information. Witness the technique of opening oysters to discover pearls at one of the observatory’s shows.
For those who want to explore more of the coral reef, ride on the observatory’s deep glass-bottomed boat Coral 2000. Sit and watch the underwater world traveling past your window and under your feet. Be amazed with a 3-D projection of being underwater with all types of marine animals in the observatory’s 140-seat Oceanarium simulator.
End your visit at the observatory’s self-service restaurant and shop for unique jewelry and other items. The Underwater Observatory Marine Park is open daily. Drive south from Eliat for about 10 minutes to reach the site. Come early to this popular family attraction if you’d like to have some personal time with the fish.
