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Photo: Mboesch, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The world's lowest oasis, with pools, trees, wildlife, and archaeological remains just northwest of the Dead Sea. You can swim in the pools (season dependent).
Ein Feshkha or Einot Tzukim is a 2,500-hectare (6,200-acre) nature reserve and archaeological site on the north-western shore of the Dead Sea, about 3 km (1.9 mi) south of Qumran in the West Bank. It is located just north of the headland Râs Feshkhah, the "headland of Feshkhah". Within the reserve is a group of springs of brackish water. The nature reserve consists of an open section with pools of mineral water for bathing surrounded by high foliage and a section that is closed to visitors to protect the native flora and fauna.
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Qumran was home to a monastic Jewish sect 2000 years ago. They stored many of their documents in nearby caves, which when found in the 20th century became known as the Dead Sea Scrolls. While the scrolls themselves are now displayed in Jerusalem's Israel Museum, the cave complex and ruins are open to visitors.
Also has a water park with hot water pools and slides. There are three beaches near Kalia, all of which are closed off and charge a fee to get in.
Ein Gedi is a Kibbutz and nearby oasis (and official Nature Reserve) set in stunning desert canyons, which are great for hiking and experiencing nature. Also features the remains of a synagogue in the Old City Eye - Capricorn, from the Byzantine period, including a mosaic floor well preserved. The close-by public beach at the Dead Sea is closed now due to sink holes, but there is another one a few kilometres south.
The signature element of the Dead Sea - black mud - has both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits known to cleanse and stimulate the skin, relieve muscle and emotional tension, improve blood circulation and ease rheumatic pain.
Masada is a mountaintop fortress which King Herod transformed in 35 BC into a 3-tiered winter home. Easily accessible via a quick cable car ride or by hiking up the serpentine path. Located only 18 km north of the Ein Bokek hotel area. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, a spectacular light show in the evening recounts the dramatic history of Masada with special pyrotechnic effects. Spectators sit in a natural amphitheater on the west side of the mountain, reachable only via Arad, 20 km away.