Five Essential Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea
Five Essential Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea
I’ll never forget my first experience floating in the Dead Sea. One moment I was wading into the water, the next I was effortlessly lying on its silvery, mineral-rich surface, staring up at the desert sky and feeling like I was weightless. Actually, that’s not what happened, as soon as I lowered by body into the water I started to flail, very ungracefully and then fall head first into the water. I cant help you not have that experience, but I can give you some help with staying safe and comfortable to maximise your time there. Here are my five essential tips for enjoying the Dead Sea.
1. Bring a Book or Newspaper
Floating in the Dead Sea is surprisingly relaxing. Bring a waterproof book or newspaper to read while you drift—it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, soak in the moment, and capture that iconic Instagram shot. Many beaches offer reading materials for a tip, but bringing your own ensures you won’t be caught off guard. Trust me, nothing enhances the experience like a little quiet, weightless downtime.
2. Wear Water Shoes or Flip-Flops
The shore is lined with sharp salt crystals, which can make walking painful if you’re barefoot. Protect your feet with water shoes or flip-flops while entering and exiting the water. Once you’re floating, you can kick them off and enjoy the full Dead Sea experience—feet free, body weightless, mind relaxed.
3. Protect Your Eyes
The water here is extremely salty, which is what makes floating so easy—but it also means it can sting if it gets in your eyes. Never rub your eyes if you get saltwater in them. Rinse thoroughly with freshwater immediately. Sunglasses or water goggles are also a smart idea if you plan to stay in the water for longer periods. As a rule of thumb, 15 minutes is the recommended maximum for full submersion.
4. Enjoy the Mud—but Prepare for Mess
Applying Dead Sea mud to your skin is a signature part of the experience. It leaves your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated, but it is messy and hard to wash off. Bring a towel and a change of clothes, and embrace the fun! If you fall in love with it, consider taking a jar home—it’s a small souvenir that brings a piece of the Dead Sea’s magic back with you.
5. Don’t Shave Before Visiting
The minerals and salt in the water can sting freshly shaved skin, which can turn an amazing experience into a painful one. To enjoy your float and mud treatments fully, skip shaving for at least a day or two before your visit. Your skin will thank you.
Final Thoughts
Floating in the Dead Sea is a bucket-list experience that blends natural beauty, wellness, and pure relaxation. My advice would be to book an organised tour to one of the many resorts by using Get Your Guide, not only do they have the best prices but all of their tours are backed up by incredible customer service. Find your perfect tour here . By following these simple tips—bringing reading material, protecting your feet, shielding your eyes, enjoying the skin—you can make the most of your visit without any surprises.
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the Dead Sea has a way of making you feel weightless, rejuvenated, and completely in the moment. So pack your towel, grab a book, and get ready to float—this is one experience you won’t forget.
@permissionnotrequired I thought floating in the Dead Sea would be relaxing… turns out there’s a lot nobody tells you 😅💦 Here’s what I wish I’d known before I went 👇 Would you still take the plunge?#permissionnotrequired #womenover50 #deadsea #solofemaletraveler #traveltips ♬ nhạc nền - Old Songs Old Memories