Yod Alef
South District, Israel
Yod Alef is a Blue Flag beach located 2.26 km from Ashdod. The beach maintains Blue Flag certification, which requires meeting strict standards for water quality, cleanliness, safety, and coastal management. The beach operates seasonally, and swimmers should follow posted water safety guidelines. Fresh drinking…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Yod Alef
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Yod Alef?
Yod Alef is a Blue Flag beach located 2.26 km from Ashdod. The beach maintains Blue Flag certification, which requires meeting strict standards for water quality, cleanliness, safety, and coastal management. The beach operates seasonally, and swimmers should follow posted water safety guidelines. Fresh drinking water is available on-site. April through June are the best months to visit. Blue Flag status is reviewed annually.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in South District, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Israel certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Yod Alef faces E toward Red Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, 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 | Med |
| May | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Jun | 25°C | 22°C | Med |
| Jul | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 26°C | 23°C | Med |
| Oct | 24°C | 21°C | Low |
| Nov | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Dec | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
The best time to visit Yod Alef is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 26.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.8°C in July.
How crowded does Yod Alef get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Israel, Yod Alef sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Yod Alef open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Yod Alef
Is Yod Alef safe to swim?Yod Alef is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Yod Alef?Peak water temperature at Yod Alef reaches around <span class="inline-stat">23.8°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 13°C.
What is the beach like at Yod Alef?Yod Alef on the South District coast of Israel. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Yod Alef have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Yod Alef meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Transport
Getting to Yod Alef
How do I get to Yod Alef by car?Yod Alef is approximately 2.26 km from Ashdod. 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 Yod Alef?The nearest airport is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) (TLV), approximately 34.9 km away.
Can I get to Yod Alef by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Ashdod.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 31.7893°N, 34.6262°E |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Israel |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yod Alef FAQ
Is Yod Alef suitable for children?
Yod Alef is a Blue Flag certified beach in South District, Israel. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Yod Alef free to access?
Yes, access to Yod Alef is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Yod Alef?
The best time to visit Yod Alef is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 23.8°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 26.8°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Yod Alef?
Yod Alef is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Yod Alef?
Yod Alef is located in South District, Israel. It is approximately 2.26 km from Ashdod. The nearest airport is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) (TLV), 34.9 km away. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
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