Sea of Galilee Swimming Season Ends Amid Visitor Decline
Translated & summarized from Kipa by baba
The Sea of Galilee's swimming season is ending on October 10, with lifeguard services ceasing. Visitor numbers dropped to 2.5 million this year from 3.3 million last year, due to military operations and health concerns. The water level continues to fall, necessitating adjustments like relocating lifeguard stations. Despite challenges, beaches received environmental awards and safety hotlines managed numerous incidents.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- The Sea of Galilee swimming season ends October 10, with lifeguard services to be suspended.
- Visitor numbers to Sea of Galilee beaches fell to 2.5 million this year, down from 3.3 million in 2025.
- The decline in visitors was attributed to military operations and a health alert about amoeba.
- The Sea of Galilee's water level continues to drop, reaching 213.635 meters below sea level.
- Environmental and safety initiatives were conducted, including protecting clams and managing incidents.
- Tzemach Beach received the "Blue Flag 2025" environmental award for the third consecutive year.
The swimming season at the Sea of Galilee will conclude on October 10, according to the Kinneret Cities Association. Following the season's end, lifeguard services will be suspended across all beaches managed by the association. This year, the association reported approximately 2.5 million visitors to its 16 beaches, a decrease from the 3.3 million recorded last year.
The decline in visitors is attributed to several factors. The association explained that the closure of beaches during the 'Shag'at Ha'ari' (Lion's Roar) operation, which coincided with the Passover and Eid al-Fitr holidays, contributed to the drop. Additionally, a significant decrease in visitors was observed during the High Holidays following a September 6 report by the Ministry of Health about a child contracting an amoeba infection.
The association reminded the public that swimming without a lifeguard is dangerous and prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to explore the "Around the Kinneret Trail" and enjoy the beaches without entering the water. The water level of the Sea of Galilee continued to drop, reaching 213.635 meters below sea level on October 6, according to the Water Authority. This marks a continued decline from a low point of 213.445 meters measured in December 2025, attributed to two consecutive years of low rainfall.
Adjustments were made on the ground due to the receding waterline, including relocating lifeguard stations. Efforts were also undertaken to protect endangered clams and remove invasive plant species, in collaboration with the Water Authority and the Kinneret Research Institute. During the summer, a free shuttle service called "Kinneret Around" operated for 35 peak days, transporting visitors to beaches. The "Kinneret Safe" hotline handled 211 incidents, primarily related to noise disturbances, but also traffic, boating safety, violence, vandalism, and medical issues. The information hotline "Kokhvit Kinneret" received over 3,000 public inquiries. At Tzemach Beach, the international environmental standard "Blue Flag 2025" was awarded for the third consecutive year, recognizing excellence in environmental, safety, and accessibility criteria.
Mentioned
