Shavuot 2026 falls on May 22nd — and already, 4 weeks before, the best properties in Eilat are filling up. If you're planning to go, now is the time to act.
Dates and Holiday Structure
Shavuot 5786: Friday, May 22nd, 2026 (Erev Chag: Thursday, May 21st). The holiday is adjacent to Shabbat.
Options:
- 2 nights: Travel on the 21st (Thursday, Erev Chag) → Return on the 23rd (Saturday night)
- 3 nights: Travel on the 20th (Wednesday) with a day off → Return on the 23rd — the most popular combo
- 1 night: Friday-Saturday only — possible but tight for a 7-8 hour drive
Recommendation: 3 nights (May 20-23) — you gain an extra beach day and the travel cost is spread over more nights.
Weather for Shavuot in Eilat
May is a golden month in Eilat:
- Air temperature: Around 36°C during the day on average — hot, but less than July-August (around 40°C)
- Sea temperature: 24-25°C — perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Humidity: Low — easier than the Mediterranean coast
- Sun: 12+ hours a day
Prices — Shavuot 2026
| Property Type | Price per Night |
|---|---|
| Studio / Room | From 600 ₪ |
| 2-room apartment (for 4) | From 900 ₪ |
| Small villa with pool (for 6) | From 1,400 ₪ |
| Large villa (for 8-10) | From 2,000 ₪ |
Comparison: Shavuot is 30-50% more expensive than March, but 10-20% cheaper than Passover and mid-August.
What to Do for Shavuot in Eilat?
Sea and Snorkeling
May = one of the best times for snorkeling — 25-30 meters visibility, warm water, few algae.
- Coral Beach Nature Reserve (40 ₪ adult, 25 ₪ child) — open as usual, arrive at opening (9:00) before it gets crowded
- Dolphin Reef (From 74 ₪) — book tickets in advance for Shavuot
Attractions
- Underwater Observatory (129/From 119 ₪) — indoors, ideal for hot afternoons
- Sunset Cruise — most beautiful during Shavuot, book 2-3 days in advance
- Timna Park (From 49 ₪) — especially beautiful in May, not too hot
Evening Entertainment
Shavuot = nights with a full atmosphere. Restaurants are busy — book a table a week in advance.
Recommended restaurants for Shavuot (verified):
- Pago Pago (99 Mish'ol HaMayim) — on the water, Mediterranean cuisine, ideal for sunset
- La Sardine (Laguna Hotel Promenade, Marina) — fish and seafood, open all week
- Pedro (38 Sderot Ya'elim) — meats and seafood, garden atmosphere
- Cafe Optimy (Pinat Eilat, Promenade) — Italian, open on Shabbat and holidays
6 Tips for Shavuot in Eilat
- Book accommodation now — every day that passes reduces your options
- Arrive on Wednesday afternoon — avoid Thursday evening rush
- Coral Beach Nature Reserve — Friday at opening (9:00) — very crowded during Shavuot
- Car recommended — for trips to Timna and other attractions
- Buy beach gear at the supermarket upon arrival — before the shelves empty
- Plan evenings in advance — Shavuot = you won't find a table spontaneously
Check availability for Shavuot at Livo — there are still excellent properties available.
FAQ
When is Shavuot 2026?
Shavuot 2026 falls on Friday, May 22nd (6th of Sivan 5786), with Erev Chag on Thursday, May 21st. The holiday is adjacent to Shabbat, and many also take Wednesday the 20th off, creating a long 4-day weekend: May 20-23.
How much does accommodation in Eilat cost for Shavuot 2026?
Shavuot is peak season — prices are 30-50% higher than usual. A villa for 6 people: From 1,500 ₪/night. An apartment for 4: From 800 ₪/night. Book now — the best properties sell out 3-4 weeks in advance.
What's special about Shavuot in Eilat?
Shavuot in Eilat = perfect weather (around 36°C on average during the day — hot, but less than July-August), ideal sea temperature (24°C), and a peak-season atmosphere. Book restaurant tables in advance.
Is it worth traveling to Eilat for Shavuot?
Absolutely — Shavuot is one of the best times. The weather is excellent, the sea is warm, and the long weekend allows for 4 full days.
When should I book accommodation for Shavuot 2026?
Now — quality properties for Shavuot are taken 4-6 weeks in advance. Livo still has availability, but it's decreasing.
עודכן לאחרונה: October 1, 2026