Where to Stay in Eilat
From luxury Red Sea resorts to backpacker hostels — 13 handpicked properties for every budget and travel style.
Eilat's hotel scene is concentrated along two main areas: North Beach (the main hotel strip with the promenade, nightlife, and marina) and the South Coast (closer to the Coral Beach Nature Reserve, quieter, better for diving). Most tourists stay at North Beach for convenience, but divers and snorkelers should seriously consider the south coast for walkable reef access.
A key advantage: Eilat's VAT-free status means hotel prices are already 17% cheaper than in other Israeli cities. What you see is what you pay -- no additional tax at checkout. This also applies when booking through international platforms like Booking.com. On a 5-night luxury stay, that 17% savings adds up to hundreds of shekels.
Price context: Eilat hotel pricing is seasonal. The prices listed below are typical for the shoulder season (March-May, October-November). Expect prices to double during Jewish holidays (Sukkot, Passover, Hanukkah) and Israeli school vacations. Winter weekdays (January-February, excluding holidays) are the cheapest time to visit.
North Beach Area
- * Main hotel zone with 20+ hotels
- * Walking distance to promenade & nightlife
- * Sandy beach, water sports, marina
- * Best for: families, couples, nightlife, shopping
- * Hotels: Royal Beach, Dan, Herods, Leonardo, Prima Music
South Coast (Coral Beach)
- * Quieter, near the reef and dive sites
- * Orchid Reef Hotel and SPNI Field School
- * Walking distance to Coral Beach Reserve
- * Best for: divers, snorkelers, nature lovers
- * 10-15 min drive or bus to North Beach
Quick Price Guide (Shoulder Season)
Luxury Hotels (₪700+/night)
Eilat's finest resorts. Beachfront locations, full-service spas, multiple pools and restaurants. All 5-star properties with world-class amenities.
Royal Beach Eilat (Isrotel)
Eilat's flagship luxury hotel and the crown jewel of the Isrotel chain. Prime beachfront on North Beach with a massive pool complex featuring multiple pools, waterfalls, and a lazy river. Three on-site restaurants ranging from gourmet Mediterranean to poolside grill. Full-service spa, kids club, and recently renovated rooms with floor-to-ceiling Red Sea views. All-inclusive option available.
Dan Eilat
The iconic red building on North Beach, instantly recognizable from any vantage point in the city. A family-friendly 5-star resort with a large lagoon-style pool, on-site water park with slides for kids, private beach section, and multiple dining options. Known for exceptional service, spacious rooms, and the best breakfast buffet in Eilat. The pool area transforms into an entertainment zone in the evenings.
Herods Palace
A grand Roman-themed luxury resort with lavish decor inspired by the ancient king. Multiple pool areas including a stunning infinity pool, full-service spa with Dead Sea treatments, and casino-style evening entertainment. Located directly on the North Beach promenade, steps from restaurants and nightlife. Popular with families for its excellent kids' facilities and spacious family suites.
Isrotel Agamim
An adults-only luxury retreat for those seeking a quieter, more refined Eilat experience. Removed from the bustle of the main strip, Agamim offers a serene atmosphere, beautifully designed suites, an outstanding spa with hydrotherapy circuit, and an elegant pool area. The restaurant focuses on quality over quantity, serving creative Mediterranean-Asian fusion. Perfect for couples and adult groups who want pampering without the noise.
Orchid Reef Hotel
A unique boutique Thai-style resort near the Coral Beach Nature Reserve on the quieter south coast. Designed with tropical gardens, wooden walkways, and Thai-inspired architecture, the Orchid Reef is the only hotel within walking distance of the best snorkeling and diving. Intimate atmosphere, eco-friendly ethos, and a loyal following among divers who return year after year. The on-site Thai restaurant is considered one of Eilat's hidden gems.
Mid-Range Hotels (₪350-500/night)
Solid comfort without the luxury price tag. Good pools, decent locations, and reliable service. The sweet spot for most travelers.
Leonardo Royal Resort Eilat
The best all-inclusive value in Eilat. A large resort with multiple pools, daytime entertainment programs, buffet dining with themed nights, and a kids club that runs morning through evening. Located on the North Beach strip with direct beach access. Rooms are comfortable if not luxurious. The all-inclusive package includes all meals, snacks, local drinks, and select activities, making it excellent value for families who want a hassle-free holiday.
Prima Music Hotel
A uniquely themed hotel where every floor is dedicated to a different music genre -- from jazz to rock to classical. Family-friendly with a fun atmosphere, good-sized pool, poolside bar, and regular live music events in the lobby. The location near the promenade is convenient for nightlife and restaurants. Rooms are well-maintained with musical artwork and a playful design sensibility. Great for families who want personality without breaking the bank.
U Magic Palace
One of Eilat's most modern mid-range hotels with sleek, contemporary design. Well-appointed rooms with quality bedding, a refreshing pool area, and an impressive breakfast spread. Central location makes it easy to explore on foot. Popular with couples and solo travelers who appreciate style and substance without the luxury price tag. The rooftop terrace offers mountain and partial sea views.
Leonardo Plaza Eilat
A reliable, well-managed hotel in the city center from the trusted Leonardo chain. Recently refreshed rooms, solid breakfast buffet, pleasant pool area, and consistent service. The central location puts you within walking distance of both North Beach and the main shopping areas. A safe choice that delivers exactly what you expect: clean, comfortable, and well-located accommodation without surprises.
Astral Nirvana Suites Hotel
An all-suites hotel that excels for families and longer stays. Every unit includes a kitchenette with a microwave, mini-fridge, and basic cookware, letting you save on dining out. The suites are spacious enough that you don't feel cramped after a few days. Pool, small gym, and a helpful front desk that arranges tours and rentals. Located slightly inland but a short walk from the beach. The best value-for-space ratio in Eilat.
Budget Accommodation (₪80-200/night)
Hostels and budget options for backpackers and value-conscious travelers. Basic but functional, with great social scenes and helpful staff.
Arava Hostel
The backpacker favorite in Eilat with a well-deserved reputation as the social hub for budget travelers. Dorm beds with personal lockers and reading lights, plus private rooms for those wanting more space. Communal kitchen, rooftop terrace with Red Sea views, organized pub crawls, and a notice board buzzing with ride-shares, dive buddy requests, and Petra trip companions. The vibe is young, international, and lively.
Eilat Hostel
A central, no-frills hostel that delivers the essentials: clean dorm beds and private rooms, air conditioning (critical in Eilat), hot showers, a communal kitchen, and a rooftop terrace. Walking distance to North Beach and the nightlife strip. The staff are genuinely helpful with trip planning, and the atmosphere is social without being a party hostel. Good option for budget travelers who need rest between adventures.
SPNI Field School Eilat
Run by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, this field school offers basic but clean rooms near the Coral Beach area. The real draw is the knowledgeable staff who can arrange birding excursions (Eilat is on a major migration route), nature hikes, and guided snorkeling trips. Air-conditioned rooms, communal areas, and a lecture hall with regular nature talks. A unique option for nature-focused travelers who want substance over style.
Choosing Your Area
Families with Kids
North Beach is your best bet. Dan Eilat (water park), Leonardo Royal Resort (all-inclusive kids club), or Astral Nirvana (kitchenettes for snacks and baby food). All within walking distance of the promenade, Ice Mall, and water sports.
Couples & Honeymooners
Isrotel Agamim (adults-only, superb spa) for quiet luxury, or Royal Beach for the full resort experience. If you value atmosphere over amenities, the Orchid Reef Hotel on the south coast offers an intimate, boutique feel unlike anywhere else in Eilat.
Divers & Snorkelers
Orchid Reef Hotel is the clear winner -- it's the only hotel walking distance from the Coral Beach Nature Reserve and major dive sites. The SPNI Field School is the budget alternative on the south coast. If staying at North Beach, the dive sites are a 10-minute drive or bus ride south.
Backpackers & Solo Travelers
Arava Hostel for the social scene (rooftop parties, dive buddy boards), Eilat Hostel for a quieter budget option. Both are central and walking distance from everything. Budget tip: the communal kitchens save you a fortune on meals.
Booking Tips & Insider Advice
When to Book
Book 2-3 months ahead for Jewish holidays (Sukkot, Passover, Hanukkah) and summer (July-August). These are peak periods when Eilat fills up completely and prices double or triple. For shoulder season, 2-4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.
Best Rates
November through February (excluding Hanukkah week) offers the lowest hotel prices. Weekdays are cheaper than weekends (Thursday-Saturday is the Israeli weekend). Check Booking.com for "Secret Deals" and "Genius" member discounts on Eilat hotels.
All-Inclusive Worth It?
Often yes, especially with kids. Leonardo Royal Resort and Isrotel properties have the best all-inclusive packages. Calculate what you'd spend on meals and activities separately -- all-inclusive typically saves 15-25% for families of four. For couples who prefer dining out, skip it.
No VAT Reminder
Hotel prices in Eilat already exclude VAT. If booking through international sites, the displayed price reflects this. The 17% savings is significant on multi-night stays -- on a 5-night luxury booking, you're saving ₪600-1,000 compared to the equivalent in Tel Aviv.
Free Cancellation Strategy
Most Booking.com properties offer free cancellation. Book early at the flexible rate to lock in your dates, then keep checking for price drops. If the price falls, rebook and cancel the original. Many hotels also drop rates 1-2 weeks before arrival if not fully booked.
Half-Board Hack
Several mid-range hotels offer a "half-board" upgrade (breakfast + dinner) for ₪100-150 per person per day. Given that a restaurant dinner in Eilat averages ₪80-120, this is often a good deal, especially for the convenience factor after a long day of activities.
Search All Eilat Hotels
Compare prices and availability across all Eilat properties. Remember: all prices are already VAT-free (17% savings).
Search Eilat Hotels on Booking.comFree cancellation on most properties. No prepayment needed. Best price guarantee.
Hotel FAQ
Is it better to stay at North Beach or the South Coast?
Are Eilat hotels cheaper than the rest of Israel?
Should I book all-inclusive?
What are the peak seasons to avoid for cheaper rates?
Do I need a car if staying at North Beach?
Explore more Eilat guides: Diving & Snorkeling | Things to Do | Petra Day Trip