Have you ever heard of Achziv? Nestled along Israel’s picturesque coastline, this not-at-all hidden gem boasts not only one of the most beautiful beaches in the country but also holds a rich history as the site of an ancient city. For years, Achziv had been all over my social media feed and it was the number one place on my bucket list to visit.
Last fall we went on a journey to uncover the wonders of Achziv and see what all the hype was about.
Explore Achziv’s Historical Significance and Achzivland
Achziv Beach is known for its proximity to Achzivland, a fascinating micronation situated between Nahariya and the Lebanese border. This strange little place has become a bit of an icon- you’ll have to visit for yourself to really understand this funky little nation. There’s a museum onsite that holds the history of the community as well as how Eli Avivi came to declare this land a state and himself its president.
Escape to Achziv: A Weekend Getaway to Remember
Planning a weekend escape? Achziv, an Israeli national park, offers the perfect destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. My then fiance visited for a shabbat last fall along with two two friends and had simply the best time. We are avid campers and were seeking a unique experience..
Achziv National Park: Camp or Stay in a Beach Bungalow
Achziv National Park has two enticing options: camping amidst the serenity in your own tent for a small fee or opting for a cozy beach bungalow for about 450 NIS per night. (We paid extra to stay until the end of Shabbat) We decided to treat ourselves to a beach bungalow, offering a private, lockable space where we could relax, enjoy meals, and unwind in comfort. With benches, a table, a fan, and a mini-fridge, our bungalow became our haven from the heat. Nearby there were great bathrooms with shower facilities and hot water!
You do typically need to book at least 2 nights in the Bungalow but if you’re spontaneous and there’s open rooms for the weekend, they often open them up midweek for single night rentals.
Idyllic Beaches and Ancient Ruins: Swim Through History
Achziv Beach has some of the most stunning shores in Israel, with one area offering tranquility and seclusion (near the bungalows), while another livelier section caters to the campers and families. For us, the highlight of Achziv Beach lies in the opportunity to swim among the captivating ruins of the ancient city, a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Prepare for Adventure: Food, Fun, and Ocean Exploration
To make our Shabbat more Shabbat-like, we brought along a hot plate and grill for cooking mouthwatering meals. Stocking up on fruits and snacks, we were always ready to satisfy our hunger. We barbecued on Friday afternoon and ate the remains throughout the weekend.
Unforgettable Memories Await at Achziv Beach
A stay at Achziv Beach is an experience not to be missed. Whether for a night, a weekend, or even just a day trip, you’ll be captivated by the beauty, spaciousness, and sheer wonder of this remarkable destination. Achziv Beach has even earned a spot on my comprehensive guide to 75 must-visit locations in Israel, featured on Jewish Unpacked in celebrations of Israel’s 75th birthday.
