Haifa and the Northern Coast: Places to Explore

Nahariya

This crowded, vibrant seaside town was built along the banks of a river lined with eucalyptus trees. (The town's name comes from nahar, the Hebrew word for "river.") The town is popular with vacationing Israelis who throng the small shops along the main street. European visitors too appreciate the lively atmosphere and the white-sand beaches. One of the region's most beautiful stretches of sand is just at the end of the main street. Two others sit just north of town.

Although German was once the most common language here, you're now just as likely to hear Russian or Amharic (spoken by Ethiopians). In July and August, there's dancing in the amphitheater at the mouth of the river, and Israeli stars perform on the beach and in the town square.

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