The Best Boutique Hotels in Eilat, Israel

Days lounging by the pool, evenings sipping cocktails at the trendy bar – when it comes to a relaxed, couple-friendly holiday, this hotel near Moriya Beach nails it. The lobby has plenty of comfy seating, so you can enjoy your morning coffee lazily over a book. Meanwhile, rooms have a bright and contemporary feel, with white walls and metallic pendant lights. Front-desk staff can sort pretty much anything you need, from tours to beauty treatments and car hire.

The clue is in the name; this hotel in Eilat is close to Coral Beach Nature Reserve, a world-class diving spot famed for its colourful reef. But, even if you’re not a diver, you’ll find reasons to like this stay, including the large, sun-drenched pool, bountiful buffets and freshly styled rooms with crisp linens and polished floors. Water sports are on tap for active types, while free bikes can be hired to explore the area.

You really can’t get closer to Coral Beach Nature Reserve than at the Royal Shangrila, set right off the dive sight. And, with a sun-drenched deck area featuring a pool and bar, it lets you appreciate the view above the sparkling waters just as much as the one beneath. The larger bedrooms, which often come with more brilliant vistas, can sleep a family of four across a loft-style space. Really want to splurge? Hire one of the two elegant villas, complete with a private pool.

On the slopes of Edom Mountains, on the shore of the popular dive site Coral Beach, Orchid Eilat comes with a Thai twist. Villas, and whole wings of the hotel, come with Southeast Asian-style wood ceilings, spinning ceiling fans and blooming orchids galore. It’s a romantic pick for holidaying couples – honeymooners in particular – who will also enjoy the elegant restaurant overlooking the shimmering Red Sea.

This hotel in Eilat is right on the coast at HaDayagim Beach, but you don’t need the Red Sea to enjoy the waterside life at Aria. The spectacular central pool – lined with towering palms, thatched umbrellas and comfy loungers – is a draw in itself. Guests visit for other reasons, too, though, such as the Prana Spa, which comes with shoulder-unclenching massages, and the “dance bar”, which lets you socialise with a drink or two late into the evening.

Primely placed near the promenade, beaches and downtown Eilat, Astral Maris lets you take advantage of everything that this Israeli beach resort has to offer. Families are welcome here. While children spend the afternoon in the Astraland club – catching up on video games or playing on swings and slides – parents can get some R&R by snoozing by the sun-drenched pool. The Sea Bell restaurant dishes up three meals a day if you can’t be bothered to head out to feast.

With multiple pools and rambling gardens, it’s almost easy to get lost in the spacious outdoor areas of Isrotel Yam Suf, set right on the coast on the west side of Eilat. But, in terms of all the attractions, from the spa to the coral-themed bedrooms, there is one distinct highlight: the on-site Manta Isrotel Diving Center. Join some courses here, and you’ll be ready to take the plunge at Coral Beach Nature Reserve.