Summer is the ideal time to embark on a pilgrimage to Israel. As temperatures rise, immersing ourselves in both holy and regular waters can provide a profound and meaningful experience.

Israel boasts numerous stunning baptismal sites, a picturesque coastline, and the renowned lake where Jesus walked. This unique blend of serene waters and the summer climate presents a chance to deepen our spiritual connection with Christ by undergoing baptism in the very locations where He was baptized.

Furthermore, taking advantage of the Israeli summer allows pilgrims to unwind and enjoy beautiful weather and pristine white sandy beaches alongside their spiritual journey.

Whether you are seeking to renew your baptismal vows, participate in a baptismal ceremony, find solace and inspiration, or just relax – we’ve compiled a list of some of the best sites to submerge yourselves in the water of the Holy Land as you experience the Israeli summer heat.

These are all experiences best felt as a community, a congregation.

Baptismal Sites

The Sea of Galilee is another popular place for baptisms, as it is the largest freshwater lake in Israel, and where Jesus walked on water and performed miracles.

If you would like to get baptized in Jerusalem, the holy city offers a unique baptismal experience in the picturesque historical village of Ein Kerem. The stone houses and cobbled stones of Ein Kerem are nestled in the Judean mountains, and all around it are springs and flowing streams, olive groves, fruit orchards, and terraced gardens.

Ein Kerem means “the spring of vineyards” or “groves” and is the birthplace of John the Baptist and where Christ’s mother, Mary, visited her cousin Elizabeth. This event is commemorated in Ein Kerem’s Church of the Visitation. The Church of St. John the Baptist is also in the area, where you can see historical and religious artifacts related to John the Baptist’s life and ministry.

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Gorgeous Beaches

As Israel stretches along the Mediterranean Sea it offers are many fabulous beaches to visit. You can’t go wrong wherever you go, but here are three of our favorites:

The vibrant city of Tel Aviv is known for its lively atmosphere and its beautiful beaches. And the best part about the beaches of Tel Aviv is that they are a short walk away from nearly any part of town. You can relax, eat, and watch the locals play beach volleyball, or the Israel beach version of pickleball called “Matkot”.

If you head to the north of Israel, you’ll pass by Dor Beach and its gorgeous stretch of sandy shoreline backed by lush vegetation. It is a tranquil and picturesque spot, perfect for respite and scenic views.

And then a little further up north, near the city of Nahariya, is the pristine Achziv Beach, with its soft sand, clear waters, and stunning rock formations. This beach carries historical significance, with the nearby Achziv National Park showcasing ancient ruins and archaeological sites.

It’s not only Israel’s north that boasts amazing lakes and seas, that’s also true for the south. The Dead Sea is a world-famous, one-of-a-kind lake, located at the lowest point on earth. This region was where several dramatic scenes detailed in the book of Genesis come to be.

And if you head to Israel’s southernmost point, the city of Eilat, you will be able to bathe in the Red Sea, the one God had Moses part to allow the Hebrews safe passage from Egypt. With loads of colorful reefs, many diving options and even the occasional dolphin sighting, it’s been a tourist favorite for both local and international visitors.