Water temperature and wave height on the beaches of Tiberias

Beach and sea characteristics in the Tiberias area

📍 Location:

• Tiberias (טבריה) sits on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, in northern Israel.

• The lake is about 21 km long and 13 km wide, offering freshwater beaches, unlike the Mediterranean or Red Sea.

🌊 Sea (Lake) Characteristics in Tiberias:

• 💧 Water type: Freshwater – not salty like the sea, gentle on skin and eyes.

• 🌊 Wave activity:

  • Usually calm in the morning and late afternoon.

  • Can get windy and choppy around midday or during storms, especially in winter.

• 🌿 Water quality: Usually good, though clarity varies by season and local currents.

• 🐚 Seafloor: Mostly pebbles, sand, and some muddy areas. Water entry can be slippery in some parts.

• 💡 Elevation: The Sea of Galilee is ~200 meters below sea level – the lowest freshwater lake on Earth!

🏖️ Main Beaches in the Tiberias Area:

1. Gai Beach (חוף גיא) 🏖️

• Popular and organized beach resort with a water park, pools, and shaded areas.

• Entry fee required; includes full services and grassy areas.

• Great for families.

2. Berko Beach (חוף ברקו) 🌅

• Quiet and free-entry beach near the southern part of the city.

• Has showers, benches, and some shaded spots.

• Less crowded, good for peaceful swims.

3. Tzemach Beach (חוף צמח) ⛺

• Located just south of Tiberias.

• Organized, spacious beach with lots of parking and picnic areas.

• Suitable for camping and water sports.

☀️ Seasonal Conditions:

• Summer (June–September)
  ☀️ Hot & dry | 🌊 Water temp: 28–31°C
  Best for swimming, kayaking, SUP, and family outings.

• Spring & Fall (April–May, October–November)
  🌤 Mild & pleasant | 🌊 Water temp: 22–26°C
  Excellent for relaxed beach days.

• Winter (December–March)
  🌧️ Cooler, chance of rain | 🌊 Water temp: 18–21°C
  Water is cooler but swimmable for some; fewer beachgoers.

🎯 Activities at Beaches in Tiberias:

• 🏊‍♂️ Swimming in calm freshwater

• 🛶 Kayaking, paddleboarding, and pedal boats

• 🎣 Fishing (with a license)

• ⛺ Camping at nearby beaches

• 🧘 Meditation and sunrise yoga

• 🛥️ Boat cruises and banana boats

✅ Why Visit Tiberias Beaches:

• 💧 Freshwater experience – unique in Israel

• 🧘‍♀️ Peaceful and spiritual atmosphere

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for families – warm water and gentle waves

• ⛺ Many beaches allow camping

• 🚗 Easily accessible and close to the city center, restaurants, and historic sites

Water temperature in Tiberias by month

✅ What to Expect:

• June–September: Ideal swimming season – very warm water (28–31°C)

• April–May & October: Warm and pleasant (22–27°C)

• November–March: Cooler but swimmable (17.5–23°C); wetsuit optional for longer swims