Visiting the Dead Sea region and getting to float in the famous salty water have been some of my favorite travel memories. I went when I was younger and was fascinated by it ever since! So if you’re planning a trip or just happen to be curious, here is everything you need to know about visiting the Dead Sea.
What Is The Dead Sea?
The Dead Sea is known as one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet with 34.2% salinity. And is 1412 feet below sea level – making it one of the lowest points on Earth as well. But the Dead Sea isn’t actually a sea, it’s a lake! The salinity comes from high temperatures that evaporate the water, leaving behind the minerals at concentrated levels. For the Dead Sea, salt is the most common.
The Dead Sea gets its name because aside from some microscopic organisms, nothing else can really live there. The salinity of the Dead Sea is too salty for complex organisms so rest assured that there are no sea monsters lurking in the water here!
Tips for Visiting and Floating in the Dead Sea
1. Bring Flip Flops or Water Shoes
Unlike traditional beaches, the Dead Sea is really just mud and salt built up – there isn’t a soft sandy beach for you to walk in. We recommend wearing water shoes or flip-flops that can get wet so that you don’t hurt your feet when getting into the water.
2. Don’t Shave!
The Dead Sea is literally one of the saltiest places on the planet. And if you have any scrapes it will BURN! When I went to the Dead Sea as a kid, I remember that you instantly feel any cuts start to sting when you go in the water. You do not want to shave the day you go! Actually, if you plan on going, I recommend you don’t shave in the days leading up to your visit either – especially if you get razor burn easily. Trust me, it stings more than you can even imagine!
3. Don’t Splash or Go Under the Water
The Dead Sea gets its name because the water is so salty that literally, nothing can survive in the water. You’ll want to avoid getting any water in your eyes so make sure you don’t splash around. And to avoid the insanely salty water getting into your eyes, don’t submerge yourself – just float. If the water drips from your hair into your eyes, it’s miserable! Again, take it from me. Flushing your eyes on the beach with bottled water is exactly as much fun as a root canal.
4. Go to a Designated Swim Spot
Going to a designated swim spot for the day is the best way to experience floating in the Dead Sea. You have to pay a fee but it is most certainly worth it! You’ll get access to amenities like showers, pools, and bathrooms. And trust me, you’ll want to rinse off after you get out. If you don’t all the salt sits on your skin and dries, leaving you cakey and salt covered which is really uncomfortable.
5. Wear a Bathing Suit You Don’t Mind Getting Ruined
When we went to the Dead Sea, we didn’t have any of our suits get ruined. But I have heard of others not being so lucky. Make sure you wear a dark-colored swimsuit and maybe leave your favorite one at home, just in case! It is better to be safe than ruin that gorgeous white bathing suit you love, right?
6. Limit Your Time in the Water
The water is really salty, so salty in fact that you don’t want to spend too much time in the Dead Sea. If you do stay in the water too long, you can get dehydrated! Make sure when you get out to rise off and drink plenty of fresh water to avoid getting dehydrated.
7. Buy Dead Sea Mud and have a DIY Spa
There are two things the Dead Sea is known for – floating and mud. The mud is full of healing minerals that are said to be great for your skin! Buy some Dead Sea mud and mud yourself up. It is a key part of any Dead Sea visit and I promise you, your skin will be so incredibly soft.
8. Go Around Sunset
Going around sunset is the coolest time of the day and you’ll get those golden hour photos that are perfect for the gram! Don’t forget that you’re still in the middle of the desert so you’ll be a bit more comfortable once the sun has started to set a bit.
9. Be Safe
The myth that you can’t drown because you float isn’t exactly true. Floating on the water does make it harder to drown in a traditional sense but that same buoyancy is what makes it dangerous if you flip on your stomach, that same buoyancy is what makes it so hard to flip back over! Not to mention even a few gulps of Dead Sea water can be toxic – so be careful!
Other Helpful Tips
- Make sure to bring a towel so you can dry off and be comfortable after you visit the Dead Sea.
- Don’t forget to pack shampoo & conditioner, and body wash to shower when you’re done. You’ll want to get all the salt out of your hair and off of your skin when you’re done floating in the Dead Sea.
- Bring fresh water with you so you can stay hydrated! Not only are you in the middle of the desert you’re also swimming in one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water – dehydration can happen really quickly if you’re not prepared.
- If you have sensitive skin, be mindful of how much time you spend in the water or how much mud you put on your body as it can irritate your skin.
- Wear sunscreen and don’t forget to re-apply regularly.
- If you get any water in your eyes, flush them immediately with fresh water.
Benefits Of Swimming In The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is said to be great for your skin. The high salt content in the water and the mineral-rich mud are known worldwide. People who have gone to the Dead Sea say it relieves pain caused by their psoriasis and eczema. The mud is also said to improve your skin, reducing aging and wrinkles too. You can even take home products that have Dead Sea mud from any of the shops around the area.
The Dead Sea is without a doubt an intriguing place. And if you’re planning on visiting the Dead Sea, you’ll have a great time floating in the salty waters. With our tips, you’ll make the most of your visit, and be sure to make some amazing memories!