EAPC - Pipeline open Beach

On the southern edge of the sunny resort of Eilat lies one of the most remarkable leisure spots — Pipeline Beach (also known as Katzaa). This stretch of coastline in Israel was hidden from the public eye for a long time, which allowed it to preserve its special charm and natural purity.

This beach is classified as a natural attraction and is famous for the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. It got its name from its proximity to the oil terminal infrastructure; however, today this place is a true paradise for lovers of peaceful relaxation and the underwater world.

Pipeline Beach. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main feature of the location is its proximity to coral reefs and the famous "Dolphin Reef." Thanks to restricted access in the past, the marine flora and fauna here have remained virtually untouched, making the site a must-visit for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

For planning your visit to Pipeline Beach, it is useful to have the latest information at hand. Below are the main contact details and links to official resources.

The first reason people come here is for snorkeling. Just a few meters from the shore, an amazing world of corals and colorful tropical fish unfolds. The water here is so clear that you can watch marine life for hours simply by putting on a mask.

For those who prefer a deeper immersion, this location is perfect for diving. The absence of strong currents and the rich underwater landscape make it attractive for both beginners and experienced divers. Don't forget to bring an underwater camera to capture the inhabitants of the Red Sea.

If active recreation is not for you, Pipeline Beach offers excellent conditions for relaxation. It is much quieter here than on the central city beaches, allowing you to enjoy the sound of the surf and the gentle sun. Sometimes, from the side of the neighboring dolphinarium, you can see dolphins swimming quite close to the beach boundary.

Reaching this southern corner of the coast is quite simple. Pipeline Beach is located in the southern part of the city, heading toward the Egyptian border. If you are coming from the city center, the most convenient way is to take a taxi — the ride will take no more than 10–15 minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses (such as routes #15 and #16) run regularly from the city center and the hotel area. You should get off at the stop near the "Dolphin Reef" or directly at the sign for Katzaa Beach.

If you have rented a car, follow the southern highway (Highway 90). There are parking spaces available near the beach, making the visit very convenient for independent travelers.

An interesting feature of this place is its name and origin. For a long time, the territory where Pipeline Beach is now located was closed to the general public. It belonged to the oil terminal of the Eilat-Ashkelon Pipeline Company (hence the name — Pipeline or Katzaa in Hebrew).

For decades, this zone remained virtually untouched by human activity, which allowed a unique marine ecosystem to be preserved here. Israel decided to open this stretch of coast to the public only in 2017, making it one of the "youngest" official beaches of the resort.

Thanks to its "closed" past, the beach has maintained an atmosphere of seclusion and pristine beauty. There are no dense developments or noisy attractions here, making it a historically significant example of how an industrial zone can be transformed into an eco-friendly recreation area.

To enjoy the atmosphere of this place, travelers should set aside at least 2–3 hours. This is quite enough for a leisurely swim and observing the marine life for which the Red Sea is famous in this part of the coast.

If you plan to have a full picnic or engage in serious snorkeling, you can spend half a day at the beach. Given the calm atmosphere, many tourists prefer to stay here until sunset to admire the mountains turning shades of crimson.

Pipeline Beach is accessible to visitors at any time of the day or night. According to official data, it is Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You can come here early in the morning to catch the sunrise or enjoy the evening cool under the starry sky. However, it's worth remembering that lifeguard services and related facilities usually operate during daylight hours.

Visiting the southern coast provides an excellent opportunity to combine beach relaxation with exploring other interesting sites. Exploring the surroundings can significantly enrich your experience of the trip to this region.

Nearby, you will find both nature parks and modern entertainment centers for the whole family. Below is a list of attractions located in the immediate vicinity of the beach: