Things to Do in Dead Sea

Dead Sea sits at the lowest point on Earth, about 430 meters below sea level, straddling the border between Israel and Jordan. The salt concentration here is so intense that you literally can't sink - you'll bob around like a cork whether you want to or not. It's one of those places that feels almost otherworldly, with its mineral-rich black mud, crystalline salt formations along the shore, and the kind of buoyancy that makes for awkward but memorable photos. The therapeutic properties of the water and mud have drawn visitors for thousands of years, from Cleopatra to modern spa-goers seeking relief from skin conditions and joint pain. The landscape around here is stark and beautiful in its own way - desert hills, date palm oases, and that famous turquoise water that's actually more like a thick, oily brine.

Dining options around Dead Sea are somewhat limited, with most restaurants located in the resort hotels along Ein Bokek. The hotel restaurants tend to focus on international cuisine with some Middle Eastern touches, though prices can be steep given the captive audience. For more authentic and affordable options, you might want to pack a picnic or eat before arriving. That said, some of the higher-end resort restaurants do offer decent food with spectacular views over the water, which can be worth the splurge for a special meal.

The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months from October through April, when daytime temperatures are pleasant and the sun isn't quite so punishing. Summer here can be brutally hot - we're talking 40°C+ (104°F+) regularly - though the low humidity makes it more bearable than you might expect. Winter days are usually perfect for floating and mud treatments, with temperatures in the 20s°C (70s°F). Spring brings the added bonus of desert wildflowers blooming after winter rains, though this is hit-or-miss depending on rainfall.