Vacation at Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea

Ein Bokek, a relaxing Dead Sea oasis more than 400 meters below sea level. This sunny desert retreat features a trendy hotel strip packed with spas, healing mud and salt‑based treatments, green river‑gorge trails, and a fascinating Roman‑era perfume legacy—where nature, wellness, and history meet in style.

Written by Zvika Gasner 12-December-2024 (Originally 25-January-2019, Edited 14-June-2020) Photos By Angela R. Hechtfisch.

Ein Bokek – A Splash of History

Tucked away in the southern Judean Desert, right on the western shore of the Dead Sea, Ein Bokek is where nature and comfort meet. Today, it’s a relaxing hotel strip filled with pampering spas, skin-healing treatments, and an easygoing vibe. Bonus fact – at more than 400 meters below sea level, Ein Bokek proudly holds the title of the lowest place on Earth!

Getting here is a breeze: take a 30 km drive east from Arad along Road 31 straight to the southern basin of the Dead Sea, or cruise from Jerusalem down Road 1 and then Road 90, with stunning views along the northern shore.

Back in Roman times, Ein Bokek was the place to be for top-notch medicines and luxury cosmetics. Its fertile fields grew plants for healing and beauty, with the superstar product being the legendary persimmon perfume (not the fruit you know!). This fragrance was so exclusive, it was basically the “Chanel No. 5” of the Roman Empire. Some historians even claim that the Roman siege of Masada – just a 10-minute drive from here – was partly sparked by Jewish rebels raiding these prized crops, cutting off the perfume supply to Rome’s elite ladies.

Crown Plaza now the Vert beach at Ein Bokek Dead Sea

Ein Bokek National Park

Just 200 meters above the Dead Sea’s David Hotel, you’ll find the entrance to Ein Bokek (River) National Park – open every day of the year, weather permitting. On rare rainy days (about 15 a year), entry is closed due to dangerous desert floods (…like the one that struck Ein Gedi in May 2025). In summer, be ready for desert heat that can climb from 40° to 50° in the shade!

The park has two main trails: the Black and the Red.
The Black Trail is a family favorite – an easy, “wet” route where the water never gets higher than 20 cm. Even a 6-year-old can handle it, and the round trip takes about 1–1.5 hours. Expect lush greenery, little waterfalls, and the magic of a wild desert oasis. It’s refreshing on hot days and perfect for a light adventure.

The Red Trail is the tougher sibling – totally dry, mostly uphill, and rated “Medium” difficulty. If you’re up for more of a challenge, it’s a great choice. The best part? Both trails meet, so you can switch between them or head back the way you came.

Ein Bokek mini waterfall black track with kids

Dead Sea Ein Bokek Hotels strip

Welcome to Ein Bokek – the lowest tourist spot on earth, sitting over 400 meters below sea level! Since the first hotel opened in 1994, this Ein Bokek beach seaside oasis has grown into a vibrant strip with 12 hotels, including the Vert (formerly Crowne Plaza), the Milos and Daniel Dead Sea, plus a shiny new mall, shops, and restaurants.

Many hotels here double as wellness retreats, offering medical spa treatments and health centers. The Vert Dead Sea is famous for its luxurious spa, with massages from Shiatsu to Swedish and warm stone therapy. They use Dead Sea products packed with 26 minerals—10 times more concentrated than regular seawater—bringing real relief for skin, joint, and muscle issues.

And here’s the magic: the Dead Sea sun has almost no UVA damage, making it perfect for healing. Ein Bokek is the world’s top destination for psoriasis treatments, often giving relief for months—or even years. For the ultimate experience, head to the Vert’s rooftop solarium (men’s and women’s sections) for safe, rejuvenating sunbathing.

Dead Sea David Hotel a view to swiming pool

Ein Bokek salt mushrooms

Right across from the Dead Sea hotel strip, a brand-new natural wonder is stealing the show—salt mushrooms! Just off the Ein Bokek beach shoreline, you’ll spot 15 massive salt formations lined up for about 400 meters, each shaped like a giant mushroom rising from the sea floor. Their size alone makes them an unforgettable sight.

You’ll find them opposite the Isrotel Hotel, about 20 meters from the beach. Reaching them means a short 5-minute wade through waist-deep water, but walking barefoot here isn’t a great idea—the salt can be sharp.

And here’s the important part: since March 2021, entering this area is officially forbidden. So, enjoy their beauty from the shore and keep the magic (and your feet) safe.

Milos Dead Sea

Looking for pure luxury and total privacy? Milos Dead Sea is your dream escape. Sitting right on the stunning Ein Bokek beach, this hotel offers private suites with your very own pool. Add to that top-chef cuisine made from the finest ingredients, and you’ve got paradise by the Dead Sea.

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Ein Bokek – A Splash of History

Ein Bokek National Park

Dead Sea Ein Bokek Hotels strip

Ein Bokek salt mushrooms

Milos Dead Sea

Let’s work together

Wanna join our crazy team?

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Vacation at Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea

Ein Bokek – A Splash of History

Ein Bokek National Park

Dead Sea Ein Bokek Hotels strip

Ein Bokek salt mushrooms

Milos Dead Sea