Can tourists swim in the Dead Sea?

No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Dead Sea, it's important to remember that swimming in its waters can be dangerous due to its high salt content and strong currents. Visitors must take safety precautions, such as wearing a life jacket or using a floatation device when swimming in these waters.



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Visiting the Dead Sea There are a number of public beaches open along the shores of the sea. Popular beaches include the Ein Gedi Beach and the beach at the Ein Bokek resort (where many hotels offer private beaches – see below). Some beaches charge an entry fee.

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The water is rich in salt and minerals, so it has a silky, thick consistency that will keep you afloat if you're swimming. But the buoyancy is not enough to walk on. You can, however, walk on large slabs of solid salt that form in the water, and along the shore.

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If you stay in the Dead Sea for too long, the high salt concentration may dry out and irritate your skin, and if ingested, can cause discomfort.

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Fact: You can – and you should. Pads might not be the best option, since they'll absorb water till they're soaked, and could get weighed down or fall out. Plus, they might be visible through your bathing suit. On the other hand, tampons are convenient and safe to use in water.

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Don't Splash or Dive The water is so salty that literally nothing can survive in it. That's why it's called the Dead Sea. So you want to be sure to avoid the water getting in your eyes or nose at all costs.

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If you think that water's high salt and mineral content will not let you drown, making it safe to swim in the Dead Sea, then you are wrong. The water will keep you afloat, but if you try to swim in it, then it is almost impossible. Also, the salinity of water will lead to eye irritation way worse than in ocean water.

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After swimming in the Dead Sea, my advice would be to rinse off your body immediately! Trust me; you don't want to stay with that salt on your body until you get to shower later in the day. Otherwise, you will be scratching all day long!

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Only float in the Dead Sea 10-15 minutes Don't stay in the Dead Sea longer than 10-15 minutes. The salt water irritates your skin, and after 15 minutes it can start to sting. Remember that the Dead Sea is about 10 times saltier than typical oceans and seas. On that note – Don't splash!

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Flip flops and/or water shoes — while you can wear flip flops to a Dead Sea beach, as you get closer to the edge of the water, you'll find that there's lots of sharp rocks. You will also start to see some salt crystals as you get closer to the water, so make sure to change into water shoes once you get in.

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Don't Shave Before You Go and Be Extra Careful with Scrapes or Cuts. The Dead Sea is one of the saltiest places on earth. It's even saltier than you can probably imagine and as a result, it burns. Be prepared for any scrapes or cuts on your body to start stinging as soon as you touch the water.

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Additionally, at the Dead Sea, you will need an extra pair of shoes that can get wet (and stay on your feet). Water shoes or adventure sandals such as Chacos, Keens, or Tevas that have supportive straps are perfect.

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Dead Sea Beaches Entry to beaches is free or low-cost, and you can often lather yourself with the famous mineral-rich mud right there, too. The public beaches have public bathrooms and changing rooms, and showers on the beach. You won't stay in the Dead Sea for long – it's not for swimming since you float upon entry.

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Unlike ducking your head in a pool or even the ocean, the saline waters of the Dead Sea can cause a really painful burning in your eyes. It's also not advised as the density of the water can drag your head down. Save the Dead Sea for floating and when it's time to rinse your face, head for the showers.

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