Metzizim
Tel-Aviv District, Israel
Metzizim is a 150-meter sandy beach in central Tel Aviv, just south of the old port, which now operates as a leisure hub with restaurants, bars, and clubs. The beach was renovated in 2002 and remains one of the city's liveliest swimming spots.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Metzizim
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Metzizim?
Metzizim is a 150-meter sandy beach in central Tel Aviv, positioned just south of the city's renovated old port area. Since its renovation in 2002, it has become one of Tel Aviv's most active beach destinations, drawing both locals and visitors year-round. The beach holds Blue Flag status since 2013, reflecting its maintained safety and facility standards. What makes Metzizim distinct is its location within the urban fabric—you're steps away from restaurants, bars, and leisure venues, yet on genuine Mediterranean sand. The beach operates a full lifeguard service during the swimming season and provides practical amenities including beach chairs, parasols, and volleyball courts. It's the kind of beach where you can move easily between water time and the surrounding social scene.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Tel-Aviv District, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Israel certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Metzizim faces E toward Red Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Mar | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Apr | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| May | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Jun | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Jul | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 28°C | 25°C | High |
| Sep | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Oct | 24°C | 21°C | Med |
| Nov | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Dec | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
The best time to visit Metzizim is May, June. Air temperatures peak around 27.1°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 24.1°C in July.
How crowded does Metzizim get?Metzizim attracts a consistent flow of people, particularly during the peak summer months of July and August when water temperatures reach their annual maximum around 24–25°C. The beach's location in central Tel Aviv and its social infrastructure—volleyball courts, fitness areas, proximity to restaurants and bars—draws a mixed demographic: families in summer, fitness-focused groups using the facilities, and adults seeking an integrated beach-and-leisure experience. The 150-meter length means the beach fills noticeably during mid-summer weekends. Early mornings (before 9 AM) and late afternoons (after 4 PM) tend to be quieter. Winter months see far fewer swimmers, though the beach doesn't empty entirely—locals and visitors still use it for walking and the facilities remain operational. The lifeguard presence creates a sense of safety that encourages regular use. The beach's designation as a 'lively' venue suggests it carries steady social energy rather than being a retreat for solitude.
Is Metzizim open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (05-05 – 22-10). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Metzizim
Is Metzizim safe to swim?Metzizim is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Metzizim?Peak water temperature at Metzizim reaches around <span class="inline-stat">24.1°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.9°C.
What is the beach like at Metzizim?Metzizim's 150 meters of sand sit in an east-facing position along Tel Aviv's coastline, meaning morning light hits the beach directly and afternoon shade builds as the day progresses. The sand itself is typical Mediterranean—medium grain, comfortable underfoot, and reasonably well-maintained. What distinguishes this beach from quieter alternatives is its purposeful design as a social hub. You'll find dedicated areas for beach volleyball, fitness facilities on-site, and a professional setup for equipment rental including chairs and parasols. The water temperature follows a clear seasonal pattern: winter months (January–February) see temperatures around 9.9–10.9°C, making swimming uncomfortable without a wetsuit. The shoulder seasons—March through May and October through November—bring gradual warming, with April reaching 15.6°C and November dropping to 16.5°C. Peak swimming conditions run June through September, when temperatures climb from 21.9°C in June to a maximum of 24.6°C in August, then ease back to 23.5°C by September. The lifeguard presence is consistent during the official bathing season, operating from 7:15 AM to either 5:45 PM or 6:45 PM depending on the season. Emergency equipment includes lifebuoys, torpedo buoys, throw bags, and an emergency phone. A manned first aid station operates alongside the lifeguard post. For visitors with mobility needs, the beach provides accessible toilet facilities and ultra-light beach wheelchairs designed to function in seawater, removing a common barrier to beach access. The beach's proximity to the old port area means you're never far from facilities, but the beach itself is compact—this is urban beach infrastructure rather than sprawling seaside space.
Does Metzizim have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Metzizim meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Showers are available. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
While You're Here
Beyond Metzizim
The area immediately surrounding Metzizim is the Tel Aviv old port (Namal), which underwent major renovation and now functions as a leisure and dining destination. The old port contains restaurants, bars, and clubs within walking distance—typically a 5–10 minute walk from the beach. The port area is also a cultural venue, hosting events and markets. Beyond the immediate surroundings, central Tel Aviv offers museums, galleries, markets (including the famous Carmel Market), and the wider urban beach scene along the coast. The beach's position means you can combine a swimming session with exploring the port's commercial and social offerings, making it practical for a mixed-activity day. Tel Aviv itself is compact enough for walking to many attractions, though public buses provide transit to further destinations.
The area immediately surrounding Metzizim is the Tel Aviv old port (Namal), which underwent major renovation and now functions as a leisure and dining destination. The old port contains restaurants, bars, and clubs within walking distance—typically a 5–10 minute walk from the beach. The port area is also a cultural venue, hosting events and markets. Beyond the immediate surroundings, central Tel Aviv offers museums, galleries, markets (including the famous Carmel Market), and the wider urban beach scene along the coast. The beach's position means you can combine a swimming session with exploring the port's commercial and social offerings, making it practical for a mixed-activity day. Tel Aviv itself is compact enough for walking to many attractions, though public buses provide transit to further destinations.
Transport
Getting to Metzizim
How do I get to Metzizim by car?Metzizim is approximately 1.32 km from Tel-Aviv. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Metzizim?The nearest airport is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) (TLV), approximately 14.2 km away. Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) is 14.2 kilometers from Metzizim beach. From the airport, the most direct route is a taxi or ride-share service, typically taking 20–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Public transport is available via the airport train, which runs to Tel Aviv's central stations, from which you can take local bus services to reach the beach. A rental car provides flexibility, though parking near central Tel Aviv beaches requires navigating urban streets and finding paid parking. Most visitors arriving by air use either airport taxis or pre-arranged transfers for convenience.
Can I get to Metzizim by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Tel-Aviv.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 05-05 – 22-10 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 32.0936°N, 34.7718°E |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Israel |
Frequently Asked Questions
Metzizim FAQ
Is Metzizim worth visiting?
Metzizim works well if you want an urban beach experience with reliable facilities and direct access to dining and leisure options. The Blue Flag status since 2013 confirms maintained safety standards, and the lifeguard presence is consistent during the swimming season. It's worth visiting if you value convenience and social infrastructure over seclusion. However, at 150 meters, it's a compact beach—if you prefer space and fewer crowds, quieter alternatives exist along the coast. The beach suits visitors who want to combine swimming with exploring the nearby old port area.
How do I get to Metzizim?
Metzizim is located in central Tel Aviv, roughly 14.2 kilometers from Ben Gurion Airport. By taxi or ride-share from the airport, the journey takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport involves the airport train to central Tel Aviv stations, then local buses to the beach. By car, you'll need to navigate Tel Aviv's urban streets and arrange paid parking. The beach is accessible via local bus routes once you're in Tel Aviv. Walking is practical if you're staying in central Tel Aviv, as the beach sits south of the old port.
What's the best time of year to visit?
June through September offers peak conditions, with water temperatures climbing from 21.9°C in June to 24.6°C in August. Air temperatures during these months range from 26.5–27.6°C, making swimming and beach time genuinely comfortable. Outside this window, water temperatures drop significantly—reaching only 9.9°C in January and 10.9°C in February, requiring wetsuits for swimming. Shoulder months (April–May, October) provide moderate temperatures around 15–20°C in the water. If you're visiting specifically for swimming, June to September is essential. For general beach use without swimming, spring and early autumn offer pleasant air temperatures with fewer crowds.
What facilities are there?
Metzizim provides chair and parasol rentals, beach volleyball courts, and fitness facilities. A manned lifeguard station operates daily during the bathing season (7:15 AM to 5:45 PM or 6:45 PM), equipped with lifebuoys, torpedo buoys, throw bags, and emergency phones. A first aid station is staffed alongside lifeguards. For visitors with disabilities, the beach offers accessible toilets and ultra-light beach wheelchairs designed to function in seawater. The nearby old port area contains restaurants, bars, and additional amenities. The beach itself is compact, but adjacent facilities mean you're not far from services.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes—the lifeguard presence, first aid station, and safety equipment make Metzizim reasonably safe for family swimming during the peak season. Beach volleyball and fitness facilities add recreational options. Accessible facilities including wheelchairs and disabled toilets support families with additional needs. The nearby old port restaurants and bars allow mixed-age outings. The main limitation is beach size: at 150 meters, space for multiple family groups is limited during summer weekends. Early morning visits or shoulder-season trips reduce crowding. The urban setting and consistent facilities make it practical for families, though those seeking spacious, quieter beaches may prefer alternatives.
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