Tel Aviv Leisure

Even though Tel Aviv’s beaches bask in the splendour of the Mediterranean sun, the city also claims title to some world-class sports accomplishments. Tel Aviv holds some of the top sports teams in Israel, and in one case, even in the world. Tel Aviv is the only city that has three clubs in the Israeli football premier league.

Sports clubs

Maccabi Tel Aviv Sports Club has facilities for over 10 sports including basketball, football, judo and kayaking. Tel Aviv is also the home of many other sports, and two rowing clubs operate in Tel Aviv. The Tel Aviv Rowing Club, which was established as early as 1935 on the banks of the Yarkon River, is the biggest rowing club in Israel.

Beach and water fun

Tel Aviv beaches are generally free to use in the city centre, with the exception of the beaches at Hatzuk and Herzliya, which charge entrance fees. The landmark Gordon Health Club (phone: +972 3 527 1555) has an Olympic-sized saltwater pool, with admission for the pool being separate from the club entry charge. Hayarkon Park (phone: +972 3 642 0541) has boat rentals, as does the Sea Centre at the Tel Aviv Marina (phone: +972 3 522 4079). Park Darom (phone:+972 3 739 1168) has boat-free water ski fun, with cables attached to a crane for pulling skiers around an artificial lake.

Hatayelet promenade

Tel Aviv's promenade, the Tayelet, is usually packed with people enjoying beach fun or evening street performances in the summer. Joggers and skaters can enjoy the paved boardwalk, with its sea view and well-situated benches. If biking is your thing, you will quickly find that taking the promenade route saves you plenty of time and unwanted car fumes. In fact, the promenade offers one of the most pleasant options for making your way from one side of the city to the other.