Introduction
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sound of Mediterranean waves. After living in tlv for nearly a decade, I’ve hosted countless friends in beach apartments and seen firsthand how a seaside stay transforms the whole experience. In 2025, the vacation rental scene here is better than ever, with options for every budget and style. This guide shares everything I wish someone had told me before I moved here.
Why You Should Choose a Beachfront Apartment
I still remember my first morning waking up in my friend’s apartment off Gordon Beach—coffee on the balcony watching surfers catch waves as the city slowly woke up. Hotels just can’t replicate that feeling.
Staying in a beach apartments means:
Rolling out of bed and into the sea within minutes
Having your own kitchen for those mornings when you just want breakfast with a view
Living like a local rather than a tourist
A home base where sandy feet and wet swimsuits aren’t a problem
Where to Stay: The Best Beach Neighborhoods
Neve Tzedek
The city’s oldest neighborhood is now its most charming. You’ll pay a premium here, but these narrow streets with their boutiques and cafés are worth it. It’s a 10-minute walk to the beach, but the architectural charm makes up for those extra steps.
HaYarkon / Gordon Beach Area
This is prime territory if beach time is your priority. The apartments here tend to be in classic Bauhaus buildings with renovated interiors. You’re right in the center of the action—volleyball courts, outdoor gyms, and the best people-watching in the city.
Old North
Where I lived for three years. Quieter than downtown but still a short walk to the beach. The apartments tend to be larger, making it perfect for families or longer stays. Lots of local cafés where the baristas will know your order by the third day.
Jaffa (Yafo)
My personal favorite. The ancient port city offers a mix of renovated Arab houses and modern buildings. The beaches here are less crowded, and there’s something magical about staying in a place with 4,000 years of history. The flea market area has amazing food options.
Frishman and Bograshov Streets
These two streets lead straight to their namesake beaches. They’re bustling with shops, cafés, and energy. Great for younger travelers who want to be in the center of everything.
What’s Available: Apartment Types
Studio Apartments
Perfect for solo travelers or couples. Most have been recently renovated to maximize space, with pull-out sofas and clever storage solutions. Expect around 30-40 square meters.
1–2 Bedroom Apartments
The sweet spot for most travelers. You’ll get a separate bedroom, living area, and often a balcony where you can dry your swimsuits. The kitchens are typically small but functional.
Luxury Penthouses
If you’re celebrating something special, Tel Aviv’s penthouse apartments are incredible. Many feature roof terraces with private hot tubs or plunge pools. The views from the top floors of beachfront buildings will make your Instagram followers jealous.
Family-Friendly Rentals
I’m always impressed by how well-equipped the family rentals are here. Many owners have kids themselves and provide everything from cribs to toys to child-proofed balconies.
What You’ll Pay in 2025
The pandemic rental boom has finally calmed down, but Tel Aviv isn’t cheap:
– Studio: $100–150 per night (higher in summer)
– 1 Bedroom: $150–250 per night
– 2 Bedrooms: $200–350 per night
– Luxury Units: $400+ per night (the sky’s the limit really)
Pro tip: Book at least 3-4 months in advance for summer stays, or look for last-minute cancellations if you’re flexible.
Where to Book
I’ve used all these platforms and here’s the real scoop:
- H148 apartments building – A mere five-minute stroll from both the beach and the Bauhaus Center Tel Aviv Art Gallery, H 148 Boutique Beach Apartments in Tel Aviv offers captivating city vistas. Guests can also enjoy seamless Wi-Fi connectivity for both work and leisure.
- Airbnb: Still has the widest selection, but prices include their hefty service fees
- Booking.com: Often has the same apartments at slightly better rates, especially last-minute
- Vrbo: Not as popular here, but sometimes has hidden gems
- Local Agencies: Companies like TLV2GO and Sea N’ Rent often have exclusive properties and can arrange extras like airport pickup
What to Expect: Amenities
Most Tel Aviv apartments offer:
- Air conditioning (absolute necessity from June to October)
- Fast Wi-Fi (Israel has excellent internet)
- Smart TVs with Netflix access
- Fully equipped kitchens (though typically compact)
- Balconies or roof access in many buildings
- Washing machines (dryers are less common)
Before You Book: The Fine Print
I learned some of these lessons the hard way:
- Read between the lines on “sea view” claims—sometimes it means “if you lean out from the balcony”
- Check if the building has an elevator if you’re above the second floor
- Ask about construction nearby—there’s always something being built in Tel Aviv
- Confirm exactly how far the walk to the beach is (in minutes, not vague terms)
First-Timer Tips
Download the Moovit app for public transit navigation
Get a Rav-Kav card from any convenience store for buses and trains
Remember that public transport stops from Friday evening to Saturday evening
Bring beach shoes—the sand gets scorching in summer
The Legal Stuff (2025 Edition)
Recent regulations have changed the scene:
– Short-term rentals now require registration in many buildings
– You’ll pay a tourist tax (around 17% on top of your rental)
– Hosts should provide a formal receipt—if they don’t, be wary
– Ask for emergency contact information for both the host and building
When to Visit
I’ve lived through all the seasons here, and my recommendations:
– April–June: Perfect beach weather without the extreme heat or crowds
– July–August: Hot and packed, but the nightlife is at its peak
– September–October: My favorite time—still warm enough to swim but quieter
– November–March: Unpredictable weather, but amazing deals on beachfront places
The Beach Life Experience
Nothing beats:
- Morning swims before the crowds arrive
- Sunset drinks on your own balcony
- Joining the locals for beach volleyball
- Having a home base steps from the water for midday breaks from the sun
Packing Essentials
Beyond the obvious swimwear:
– Beach towels (surprisingly not always provided)
– Power adapters (Israel uses type H plugs)
– Light layers for evening sea breezes
– Comfortable walking sandals
Need-to-Know Safety and Etiquette
– Tel Aviv is remarkably safe, even late at night
– Tipping is expected (10-12% in restaurants)
– The beach has designated areas for religious visitors
– Water conservation is important—short showers are appreciated
In Closing
There’s something magical about living by the beach in Tel Aviv, even temporarily. The rhythm of the city changes as you move toward the sea—more relaxed, more connected to the natural beauty that makes this place special. A vacation apartment gives you the space to breathe it all in properly, to create your own routines, and to feel, just for a while, like you belong here.
By Paulo Verde
Common Questions
Absolutely. Many apartments come with cribs, high chairs, and are close to the calmer beach sections
Stick to listings with at least 15-20 reviews, and you’ll be fine. I’ve never had a serious issue with well-reviewed properties.
Tel Aviv is incredibly dog-friendly. Many apartments welcome pets, but always confirm specifically with your host.
Be warned: parking is the city’s nightmare. Some newer buildings have parking spots, but they’re rare and usually cost extra. Consider skipping the rental car.
I worked remotely here for years—it’s excellent. Most apartments have fiber connections of 300Mbps or better.