Hotels in Eilat - My Top Recommendations

I can still remember searching for hotels in Eilat when we first visited in the summer of 2005. Actually, the choices were so overwhelming, that I asked my cousin Idit (a native Israeli who travels to Eilat every year) to handle it for me.

Since then I have visited many times and can share with you my top tips and recommendations to make your trip unforgettable. I also consulted with my good friend Uriya who worked as head of security at the Hilton Queen of Sheba and lived there for quite a while. He contributed to this page as well.

Eilat beach front

First and foremost, most all of the Eilat hotels are relatively new and updated. It actually was not until the mid 1990’s that Eilat became a popular mainstream resort for both Israelis and foreigners. Today, the 1.2 Mile North Beach area is lined with gleaming modernized hotels that are easily accessible on foot via the Tayelet. The Tayelet or promenade extends the entire length of the beachfront and has many restaurants, cafes, and fashionable shops. During the day, you can spend lazy hours strolling along the promenade with excellent views of Eilat bay (I can never get enough). But at night, this area really comes to life with street entertainers, outdoor shops, music, and a genuine feeling of electricity in the air.

Top Tip #1: If you are interested in shopping, Eilat is a free trade zone and there is no VAT (value added tax or Ma’ am in Hebrew).

Hotels in Eilat Do’s and Dont’s:

Dos:

• Do read this page and follow my recommendations before booking. I am confident it will be very helpful to you.
• Do plan to stay a minimum of 4 days/3nights. This will get you the best deals.
• Do stay at a hotel on the Tayelet (promendade) if you can afford it. It is much more convenient and well worth the few more Shekels it will cost. I stayed once at a hotel off the main promenade and it was very inconvenient.
• Do bring your appetite. The hotel restaurants server buffet style and the food is delicious and plentiful.
• Do book excursions through the hotel.Their concierge usually knows the most reputable local guides and destinations. I bought a hand held model about the size of a cell phone and found it invaluable.
• Do book your last night on Erev Shabbat (Friday night). You will get the benefit of staying until Saturday evening for no extra charge.

Don’ts:

• Don’t go in the middle of Summer unless you like it hot and crowded (Most Israelis will vacation during July and August).
• Don’t base your decision on the photos you will see online for the hotels. They can be misleading (I will give you the inside scoop coming next).
• Don’t take the three meal option with your room. Two meals a day is more than enough. I usually get the breakfast and dinner and eat something light outside the hotel.

Now I would like to share with you my top picks for Hotels in Eilat. I have categorized these according to expense since everyone has their own budget. For each category, I give you what I have found to the the best overall value for the money based upon my personal experiences or from Uriya.

Five Star Hotels in Eilat
Mostly located on North beach, these can cost up to $200 per night. You can get package deals that will reduce the price significantly.

Top Tip #2: I recommend spending the extra money on a five star hotel. I did it and am glad that I did. After all, you don’t visit Eilat every day or every year for that matter.


Dan Hotel Eilat

The Dan Hotel is truly a vacation paradise blending luxury and style with fun and round-the-clock activities. All suites feature a view of the Red Sea. Suites range from a basic 400 square foot (40 sq. meters) to luxury suites over 2000 square feet (200 sq. meters). Featuring fine cuisine and international restaurants noted for their exciting variety and gourmet menus.

Hilton Queen of Sheba

The Hilton Queen of Sheba is a site to see. Not the typical megahotel, the Queen of Sheba is designed as an imaginary biblical palace of the Queen, of course; the architecture, paintings, mosaics, and domes are all consistent with the palace theme. It is situated directly on the sea front with amazing views. It is luxurious, yet child friendly with energetic activities and a children’s club. Also there is an indoor Queen of Sheba shopping mall situated directly beneath the hotel and the lower level.

Leonardo Plaza Hotel Eilat

From personal experience, I can tell you this is one of my favorites (I stayed there in 2009). The room was quite spacious and comfortable with an incredible view of the Red Sea. The food was very good and diverse with many tasty offerings. One of the best features was the location in the center of the Tayelet with easy access to everything.

Club Hotel Eilat

The Club Hotel Eilat is the largest suite only hotel in the Middle East designed and built under the inspiration of the sea. Perfect for families as each suite accommodates up to five. Close to the action. Features a tropical garden, water park, and seven swimming pools.

Prima Music Hotel

This is a lively hotel with large pool and tennis courts: The Prima Music Hotel is situated in the outskirts of Eilat. Just about a minute walk to the sea shore, the hotel is located within minutes of everything.





Inexpensive Hotels in Eilat

Eilat Youth Hostel

This one is very nice and clean. Appropriate for families as well. The cafeteria serves a very good breakfast. One negative is there is no pool, but the IMAX theatre and Blue beach are within walking distance. Prices are about $ 60-70/night.

Hotels in Eilat Final Top Tip - Shop around for the best deals online.

Bikur Na’im! Have a great visit
Bruce