Search
Close this search box.

Apollonia National Park

Destinations in Israel

Apollonia National Park is the site of an ancient town that dates back to the 6th century BCE; when the Phoenicians settled the area. The people of this city were known for their production and export of purple dye. Originally called Arsuf, after the god Reshef, the city would trade hands and names many times over the coming centuries. The name of Apollonia comes from the Greeks, who identified Reshef with the god Apollo.



During the time of the Romans, Apollonia grew and developed; however, it wasn’t until the Byzantine period that Apollonia, whose name had changed to “Sozousa,” reached its peak prosperity and became an urban center. The following years would lead to the decline of the city under the Muslims and Crusaders. Then, in 1265, the city was captured and razed to the ground by the Mamaluke Sultan Baibars. It wasn’t until 1942, when the British police established a station, that the area became occupied again. 

Apollonia National Park – on the Edge of the Med Sea

Apollonia National Park is perched on the Mediterranean Sea, just north of Tel Aviv. The crumbling ruins of this ancient city give way to stunning views over the rugged cliffs leading to the Mediterranean’s glistening waters. The park is more than just ruins; it is home to a complex and gorgeous ecosystem. Every plant and animal here has to be able to withstand the rugged sea and its salty spray.


In This Photo: A Samaritan Wine Press Found at the Site

You will find shrubby saltbush, Mediterranean lavender, and woodlands planted by man. Hiding amongst the flora, you will find a vast array of fauna, including red foxes, gazelles, porcupines, and star lizards. Relaxing on the sands below, you may be lucky enough to see a Greek tortoise. Make sure to look up; you might just spot Eurasian stone curlews, hoopoes, and the Syrian woodpeckers.



Apollonia National Park is a place where history meets nature. Here you can explore the ancient archaeological sites from the city moat to the glass furnace to learn about the people that once called this site home. Beyond the ruins, there is a natural landscape to explore. You can go hiking along the trails, some of which take you along the breathtaking cliffs. Of course, you must stop at the lookout points for pictures!



If you visit the Apollonia National Park in the summer, the park hosts Friday sunset concerts. The magnificent views combined with the show will provide memories that last forever. If you want to experience the best Apollonia National Park has to offer, join me on a private tour!

Opening Hours:

Entrance to the park closes one hour before cited closing time


Summer hours:


Sunday–Thursday and Saturday: 8 am – 5 pm

Friday and holiday eves: 8 am – 4 pm


Winter hours:


Sunday–Thursday and Saturday: 8 am – 4 pm

Friday and holiday eves: 8 am – 3 pm

Holiday eves: 8 am – 1 pm Yom Kippur eve: 8 am – 1 pm


arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Ashkelon National Park

RELATED POSTS

Ein Hemed National Park

Ein Hemed National Park is a beautiful reserve in the hills just west of Jerusalem. Also known as Aqua Bella, as named by the Crusaders.

Museum of the Underground Prisoners

The Museum of the Underground Prisoners in Acre commemorates the Jewish underground prisoners who fought for the independence of Israel.

Ilan Ramon Memorial and Museum

The Ilan Ramon Memorial and Museum is dedicated to the memory of Ilan Ramon, Israel's first astronaut, who died in the Space Shuttle Columbia

Gates of the Old City of Jerusalem

Gates of the Old City of Jerusalem are dating back to the early 16th century, Jerusalem’s Old City walls are one of the city’s features!

Jerusalem Botanical Gardens

The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens is a pristine arboretum. The Gardens is the place if you want to learn about the Flora of Israel!

The Temple at Ein Gedi

The Chalcolithic Temple at Ein Gedi is one of the three sanctuaries dated to the Chalcolithic period that can be found in the area.

Jewish Quarter Defenders Monument

The Jewish Quarter Defenders Monument in Jerusalem stands as a powerful testament to the bravery and resilience of the Jewish people!

Foundation Stone

The foundation stone in Jerusalem is believed to be where God created the world and the first human, Adam, was formed from the earth.

Church of Saint Anne

The Church of Saint Anne in Jerusalem marks, according to Christian tradition, is the birthplace of Mary the Mother of Jesus.

Castel National Park

Castel National Park in Israel is a beautiful and historic site located in the Judean Hills, near Jerusalem telling the story of the 1948 war

Need help?