SHARON PLAIN & CAESAREA
The Sharon Plain is Israel’s green, fertile heartland, stretching along the Mediterranean coast. It is a harmonious blend of modern suburban life, vast citrus groves, and rich agricultural lands, connecting Tel Aviv to Haifa.
This region is a coastal tapestry of history, from the ancient port city of Caesarea, where Roman emperors once walked, to the dynamic, modern growth of its cities. It offers both serene beaches and millennia-old archaeological sites.
Most Popular Attractions
Coastal History & Archaeology:
Caesarea National Park: A magnificent archaeological site featuring a massive Roman aqueduct, a restored Roman theatre, the remains of Herod the Great’s harbor, and a Crusader fortress.
Caesarea Port: The modern recreational port area, adjacent to the ruins, with shops, restaurants, and a contemporary feel.
Apollonia-Arsuf National Park: Ruins of a Roman town, a Byzantine city, and a Crusader fortress spectacularly situated on a high kurkar cliff overlooking the Mediterranean.
Tel Michal: An archaeological mound near Herzliya, revealing layers of habitation from the Persian to the Roman periods.
Beit Yanai Beach & Cliff: A pristine stretch of beach backed by dramatic, eroding kurkar cliffs, popular for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Nature & Parks:
Alexander River National Park: A peaceful river park known for its population of soft-shelled turtles (Trionyx triunguis) and scenic walking paths.
Park HaSharon: A large nature area with forest trails, spring wildflowers, and the historic Khirbet Samara (a Roman-Byzantine farmstead).
Udim Nature Reserve: A small, unique reserve protecting a stretch of the Sharon Plain’s characteristic kurkar (calcareous sandstone) ridges and seasonal ponds.
Poleg Nature Reserve: A coastal reserve with wetlands, sand dunes, and the Poleg Stream, one of the last natural streams in the region.
Horbat Agav (Rega’im Park): A large public park with picnic areas and trails built around the ruins of an ancient settlement and historic buildings.
Urban Centers & Culture:
Netanya Promenade & Cliff Elevator: A picturesque promenade along the coastal cliff edge in Netanya, featuring a unique elevator that descends to the beach.
Netanya Market (Shuk Netanya): A vibrant, multicultural open-air market offering fresh produce, spices, and a diverse street food experience.
Herzliya Marina: A large, modern marina and leisure complex with high-end shops, cafes, and restaurants, a hub for sailing and yachting.
Kfar Saba Old City Center: Features restored historic buildings from the early 20th century, including the Old City Hall and the Founder’s Courtyard.
Raanana Park: One of the largest urban parks in the region, offering a large lake, sports facilities, and extensive green spaces.
Unique & Specialized Attractions:
The Khan in Hadera: A beautifully restored Ottoman-era inn (khan) that now serves as a local museum and cultural center.
Tishbi Winery (Binyamina): A well-known Israeli winery offering tours, tastings, and a popular culinary center.
Ariel Sharon Park (Hiriya): Located just outside the region’s southern border, this inspiring ecological park was transformed from a former massive garbage mountain.
Givat HaShelosha (Elisha’s Cave): A series of rock-cut tombs from the Second Temple period, believed by some to be the burial site of Elisha the Prophet.
Museum of the Jewish Brigade (Avihayil): A specialized museum dedicated to the history of the Jewish Brigade Group that fought in World War II.
Sha’ar HaShomron (Samaria Gate) Industrial Zone: While a commercial hub, it’s a key access point to regional markets and showcases the area’s modern economic activity.
Beit Rishonim (The First Settlers’ House – Herzliya): A small museum documenting the history of Herzliya’s founding and early settlement life.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Caesarea National Park: Spend a full day exploring the magnificent Roman and Crusader ruins, including the ancient Ramat Hanadiv and the impressive seaside amphitheater and hippodrome.
Walk the Netanya Cliff Promenade: Stroll along the clifftop path in Netanya for panoramic views of the Mediterranean, stopping at the Planetanya science and space center.
Hike the Alexander River Park: Follow the river that flows to the sea, known for its soft-shell turtle sanctuary and beautiful walking and cycling paths.
Experience Scuba Diving/Snorkeling: Dive into the clear waters near Caesarea’s ancient harbor, where you can explore underwater ruins and vibrant marine life.
Visit the Ralli Museums in Caesarea: Discover a unique collection of Latin American art and a focus on the Jewish history of Spain and Portugal in these two distinct, private museums.
Wander through the Artists’ Quarter of Kfar Saba: Explore the revitalized city center, featuring local galleries, artisan workshops, and street art.
Take a Winery Tour in the Plain: Visit one of the boutique vineyards in the Sharon region, such as Tishbi Winery or Vitkin Winery, for a tasting and tour.
Kite-surf or Windsurf at Beit Yanai Beach: Head to one of the region’s best beaches for water sports, known for its favorable winds and wide, open sands.
Discover the “Seven Mills” Site: Explore the restored historic flour mills along the Ayalon River, a beautiful natural and heritage site near the region’s southern edge.
Attend a Performance at the Caesarea Amphitheater: Experience a concert or show in the beautifully restored, ancient Roman amphitheater—an unforgettable setting.
Go Birdwatching at the Poleg Stream Nature Reserve: Explore the preserved coastal environment, which is a major migratory route for birds.
Enjoy a Culinary Workshop: Participate in a cooking class focusing on modern Israeli or Mediterranean fusion cuisine in one of the area’s many agricultural communities (Moshavim).
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Highly Recommended: A car is the most efficient way to explore this region. The Sharon Plain is a mix of cities, villages (Moshavim), and nature reserves, and public transport connections between smaller points of interest can be infrequent. The main north-south highway, Road 2 (Coastal Highway), makes travel quick.
- Driving & Parking: Most major cities (Netanya, Kfar Saba) use the “Pango” or “Cellopark” apps for paying for street parking. Caesarea National Park has large, paid parking lots.
Intercity Trains: Israel Railways connects Netanya, Caesarea-Pardes Hanna, and Herzliya (the southern end of the Sharon Plain) to Tel Aviv and Haifa. Trains are fast, comfortable, and a good option for commuting to larger cities.
Buses: The main bus operator is Egged and Kavim. Buses are useful for city-to-city travel within the region, but schedules can be limited for smaller, rural attractions. You must buy a rechargeable Rav-Kav card for cheaper fares, or purchase a single ticket with a contactless card (credit card/phone) on the bus.
From Ben Gurion Airport (TLV): The best way to reach the Sharon Plain is via the frequent and fast train service, with direct lines to Netanya and Caesarea-Pardes Hanna.
Embrace the Shabbat Silence: In many parts of the region, especially the more religious or agricultural communities, public transport and many businesses (notably banks, government offices, and many restaurants/cafes) will cease operation from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening. Plan your travel accordingly. Caesarea National Park and its restaurants, however, generally remain open.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically eaten between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, and dinner is a later affair, starting around 8:00 PM. Many excellent small cafes offer a traditional Israeli Breakfast (huge platters of cheeses, salads, breads, and eggs) throughout the morning.
Tipping Culture: Tipping in restaurants is standard practice (12-15% for good service). In small cafes or bars, rounding up or leaving a few shekels is common. Tipping is not usually expected for taxis.
Ancient & Modern: This area beautifully contrasts the 2,000-year-old history of Caesarea with the vibrant, modern coastal cities like Netanya and the high-tech hubs inland. Don’t be afraid to cross between the ancient ruins and the modern city beach resorts.
Hidden Gems:
Tel Michal (Michal Hill): An impressive, yet less-visited archaeological mound near Herzliya/Arsuf, offering beautiful views of the coast and the ruins of an ancient harbor city.
The Sironit Market in Netanya: A more authentic, bustling food market than the major ones in Tel Aviv, perfect for finding fresh spices, local produce, and street food.
Herzliya Marina: While often overlooked, the marina and surrounding area offer high-end dining, shopping, and a beautiful walk along the yachts.
Beit Yitzhak Junction: A well-known stop for fresh flowers, agricultural produce, and roadside cafes where locals often stop for a bite.
Language: Hebrew is the official language. English is widely spoken in all tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, learning basic phrases like Shalom (hello/peace) and Toda (thank you) will be well-received.
Top Restaurants
Helena [$50-$80] – Widely considered one of Israel’s finest restaurants, located in the historic Caesarea port, with an exciting, contemporary menu inspired by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines.
Crusaders [$35-$60] – A well-regarded kosher beachside eatery in the Caesarea port known for its super-fresh, expertly prepared fish and generous portions, often accompanied by stunning sea views.
Maree Sky Lounge [$45-$75] – A luxurious, cosmopolitan rooftop venue in Netanya’s VERT hotel, offering haute cuisine and a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastline.
Kalima [$35-$60] – A modern dairy chef restaurant in the Caesarea business park, known for its handmade, fresh pasta, unique dishes from a taboon (clay oven), and fresh Mediterranean fish.
Patrick’s Caesarea [$30-$50] – A gastropub in the Caesarea park offering a unique combination of delicious, kosher chef dishes and a wide selection of drinks in a stimulating atmosphere.
Melo Beach Club [$25-$45] – The first beach club in Hadera, offering a varied food menu and rich cocktail selection right on the sand with a special, relaxed atmosphere just a few meters from the water.
Alonzo [$25-$45] – A popular, authentic kosher Italian restaurant in Netanya, known for its commitment to culinary excellence and warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Portuguese [$25-$45] – Located in Bat Hen, this restaurant offers exquisite Mediterranean cuisine where every dish tells a story, focusing on fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Bistro Jacky [$25-$40] – A culinary haven in Netanya known for its enticing blend of local Israeli flavors and international dishes, with great grilled meats and fresh seafood.
Chez William [$25-$40] – Located in Netanya’s Kikar HaAtsmaut square, this spot features a diverse menu of local and international flavors in a warm setting, popular for people-watching in the outdoor area.
Hummus Ful Ahmed Sa’id [$15-$25] – A must-visit local spot in the Sharon Plain for an authentic taste of Israeli cuisine, specializing in delectable hummus and ful (fava beans).
Mijana [$20-$35] – An Arabic-Italian fusion restaurant located near Route 65, offering a unique blend of special Arabic cuisine with a distinct Italian touch.
NOMI [$25-$40] – Situated in Kfar Monash, NOMI blends traditional Israeli flavors with modern culinary artistry in an inviting and local atmosphere.
Gutale [$20-$35] – Known for offering the best of Israeli cuisine in Even Yehuda, this restaurant successfully merges tradition with modern culinary flair.
Legend Restaurant [$25-$45] – An authentic kosher dining experience in Netanya where tradition meets flavor, with a focus on hearty meat dishes and fresh salads made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Marrakesh [$20-$35] – Experience the rich, authentic taste of Morocco in Netanya, where every dish is prepared with traditional recipes and spices.
Zorba [$15-$25] – A popular spot in Netanya for Middle Eastern cuisine, famous for its delectable pitas and welcoming, lively atmosphere.
כשר Mile’s – מיילס [$20-$35] – A gem in Netanya, renowned for its exquisite kosher offerings and authentic flavors, often featuring traditional Israeli dishes with a modern twist.
Meatland [$30-$50] – Savor the finest grilled meats in Netanya at this classic spot for carnivore enthusiasts.
Dr Shakshoka [$15-$25] – Located in Netanya, this establishment is a go-to for authentic Israeli cuisine, famous for its delectable shakshuka (eggs poached in a tomato sauce) and warm hospitality.
Home resterant [$15-$30] – A charming, no-frills spot in Netanya specializing in homemade food, offering a cozy and authentic local dining experience.
Ruben Hadera [$25-$45] – A popular branch of a leading Israeli meat chain, specializing in special burgers and quality smoked meats from their in-house smokehouse.
The Founders 62, Even Yehuda Amana Pita Chef [$15-$25] – An emerging food truck/stand in the Even Yehuda Industrial Zone, specializing in chef-quality meat and vegetarian dishes served inside the most Israeli bread: pita.
Emek Brasserie [$35-$60] – Located in Mishmar Hasharon, this restaurant combines characteristics of a classic French brasserie with warm, local Emek Hefer flavors, utilizing raw materials from local producers and growers.
Grazia [$30-$50] – Situated in the green heart of Kibbutz HaOgen, this local restaurant offers a relaxed, personal hospitality experience with happy breakfasts and an exciting culinary experience in the evenings.
Meashana [$40-$70] – A unique smokehouse run by Chef Ziv Roeder in the heart of the country, specializing in combining flavors and raw materials from the land of Israel, with a variety of smoked meats and unlimited toppings.
Tishbi Winery Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in the winery itself, near Zikhron Ya’akov, this spot offers excellent meats and a diverse menu focusing on wine pairings, situated in a beautiful culinary complex that also includes a bakery.
Nachman BBQ and Batya Sandwich [$20-$40] – A popular smoked meat spot in Zikhron Ya’akov, where you can enjoy brisket, chorizo, and asado on-site or grab a takeaway sandwich for a picnic.
Kofinas [$30-$50] – Located in Moshav Tzur Moshe, this Italian/Mediterranean bistro is housed in a renovated old bakery, blending the purity of local cuisine with Italian touches like homemade pastas and wood-oven pizzas.
Gouje & Daniel [$45-$75] – Located in Moshav Bnei Zion, this restaurant is known for its high-quality cuisine and modern, refreshing lunch and dinner menus.
Naama’s House [$40-$70] – A unique culinary experience in a stunning, historic 1882 house in Zikhron Ya’akov, specializing in hosting private, delicious vegan/vegetarian multi-course meals (booking required).
Deli Kazan [$25-$45] – A contemporary, kosher skewered meat restaurant with a Mediterranean atmosphere, perfect for a high-quality, focused meal on grilled meats.
Makom Balev [$20-$40] – A magical restaurant and cafe set in a green garden where organic vegetables and spices are grown for use in the kitchen, offering a rich menu of Middle Eastern dishes in a beautiful, relaxed setting.
Arianna Wine Bar [$35-$60] – Located in the Sharon region, this wine bar focuses on creating a complete entertainment experience around wine culture, paired with a seasonal chef’s kitchen featuring a taboon in the center.
Emek brasserie [$30-$50] – Offers a cozy and contemporary dining experience in Mishmar Hasharon, relying on regional growers to create local twists on classic brasserie dishes.
Kami [$25-$45] – A pan-Asian restaurant in Ra’anana that takes the best of multiple Far Eastern cuisines, offering street food from Thailand, deep-flavored dishes from India, and Japanese/Vietnamese bowls.
Joya Or Yam [$30-$50] – A well-regarded Italian chef restaurant in Caesarea, known for maintaining authenticity and fidelity to original Italian cuisine while offering a luxurious dining experience.
Sunset Kitchen Herzliya [$40-$70] – A dairy and kosher chef’s restaurant on the waterfront in Herzliya Pituach, offering contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and breathtaking panoramic sea views.
El Terrace [$40-$60] – A Mediterranean chef restaurant and cocktail bar in Herzliya Pituach, offering a carefully crafted menu of high-quality ingredients with a breathtaking view of the sea.
Fratelli [$30-$50] – A popular Italian spot in the Sharon area whose cuisine combines the strong flavors of Italy with Mediterranean touches, creating a wonderful blend of aromas and tastes.
Gouje & Daniel [$45-$75] – A sophisticated spot in Moshav Bnei Zion offering refined and modern Israeli cuisine with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a rotating lunch and dinner menu.
Tofu An [$20-$35] – A highly-recommended, small house in Binyamina specializing in delicious vegan Japanese food centered around their homemade tofu (hours can vary, check in advance).
Deda [$20-$40] – A popular Georgian restaurant in Netanya offering authentic dishes like khachapuri and other traditional favorites.
Radio Glil Yam [$25-$45] – A bar-restaurant that transitions from morning fare to an evening menu with bar dishes in Herzliya, known for its lively evening atmosphere and DJ on Thursdays.
Beta caffe Herzliya [$20-$40] – A large, elegant cafe space with high ceilings and art in Herzliya, offering an Israeli menu in a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a meal or an exciting cocktail in the evening.
Fresh the market Kefar Sava [$20-$40] – A contemporary kosher restaurant in Kfar Sava offering Mediterranean cuisine with touches of Israeli, Italian, and Greek, featuring an impressive taboon and open kitchen.
Hanamaru [$20-$40] – An exquisite sushi and vibrant Asian flavors restaurant located in Beit Yitzhak-Sha’ar Hefer, a favorite for local food enthusiasts.
HaYekev [$25-$45] – A well-known kosher restaurant in Netanya offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Italian flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Scotsman (Dary More) [$30-$55] – Located in Netanya, this restaurant offers exquisite Lombardian and Asian cuisine for an upscale, unique dining experience.
Sense [$30-$50] – A gastropub and steakhouse restaurant in Netanya offering a kosher, high-quality meat dining experience.
I love Italian [$25-$45] – A local favorite Italian spot in the Sharon area, known for its authentic pasta and pizza dishes.
Nagisa [$25-$45] – An Asian restaurant located in the Soho Shopping Center in Netanya, offering a wide selection of dishes in a popular, friendly setting.
The View [$35-$60] – A grill and steakhouse in Netanya with an appealing view and a focus on quality kosher meat dishes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Municipal: Located next to the Herzliya Municipality building, this cocktail bar features an upscale, classic design with high ceilings and Gothic elements, inspired by the prestige of ancient city halls. It’s known for its original and innovative cocktails.
Arianna: Found in the Sharon region (e.g., in a city like Kfar Saba or Ra’anana), this wine bar and cocktail spot aims to bring wine culture to the area, combined with a seasonal chef’s kitchen and a tabon (clay oven) for a complete, disconnective entertainment experience.
Grace Bar & Lounge (Netanya): A sleek spot in Netanya offering a rich, extremely varied cocktail menu and unique dishes, aiming to bring a breath of fresh air that combines luxury and a folk side to the area’s dining scene.
Venice Beach Bar (Herzliya): Located in Herzliya, this exclusive sunset bar boasts a terrace with a 180-degree view overlooking the sea, offering fine food and a selection of quality wines and refreshing cocktails in a youthful, summery atmosphere.
Naya Beach & Bar (Herzliya): A cool beach restaurant and bar situated directly on Hasharon Beach in Herzliya, featuring a spectacular cocktail menu, cold draft beers, and a tropical summer bar vibe right on the white sand.
Collective: A cocktail bar in the Sharon area (part of the Avidan Group) that offers a hospitality experience designed to take your thoughts to a temporary vacation through unique dishes and original, innovative cocktails.
Meshek Roeim Wine Bar: Tucked away in the heart of Hod HaSharon, this family-run deli by day transforms into an intimate wine bar by night, offering unlimited independent pouring from a wide variety of wines alongside a rich menu.
H Bar (Sharon Plain): A vibrant event bar and social hub in the heart of the Sharon Plain, popular with both locals and tourists for its impressive selection of expertly crafted cocktails, local beers, live music, and themed events.
Nisha Bar (Netanya): A pub-restaurant in Netanya with a classic Beer Garden atmosphere, featuring a large courtyard, a varied food menu, meticulous cocktails, and a selection of draft beers.
HIGHLIGHT (Netanya): A popular cocktail bar located on Herzl Street in Netanya, known for its neighborhood place vibe and an intimate setting for quality drinks.
El Terrace (Herzliya): A lively gastropub and cocktail bar located in Herzliya, featuring a fun atmosphere and offering a great spot for groups to enjoy a variety of drinks.
Verre bar (Zikhron Ya’akov): A cozy gastropub and cocktail bar in Zikhron Ya’akov that provides a relaxed setting for enjoying drinks, catering to a local, friendly crowd.
Girino (Binyamina-Giv’at Ada): An Asian restaurant and cocktail bar in Binyamina, offering an exciting menu that blends different cuisines alongside refreshing cocktails.
Mike’s Place (Netanya): A well-known American-style bar and restaurant chain in Netanya, highly recommended for its live music (Blues, Rock), sports screenings, and a wide range of Artisan Cocktails and cold beer.
Bayz Poleg Beach (Netanya): A complex on Poleg Beach in Netanya that redefines the beach entertainment experience with a high-quality bar and restaurant, offering a pleasant atmosphere, live performances, and quality cocktails right on the sand.
Beach Club (Caesarea): Located right on the shores of the Mediterranean in Caesarea, this club offers stunning sunset views and a lively atmosphere, ideal for those looking to enjoy both day and night by the sea.
Club Mediterraneo (Caesarea): A chic venue in Caesarea known for its stylish décor and top-notch DJ performances, featuring a bar that serves a wide range of cocktails for a sophisticated evening out.
Ocean Nights (Caesarea): Located with a prime view overlooking the sea in Caesarea, this spot features live bands and DJs playing various genres, with a rooftop terrace that provides breathtaking views.
Club Atlantic (Caesarea): Known for its energetic atmosphere and popular dance floors in Caesarea, this club hosts both local and international DJs, making it a favorite among young travelers.
Nightscape Caesarea: A modern clubbing venue in Caesarea with a state-of-the-art sound system, perfect for fans of the latest electronic music genres.
Loft Underground (Netanya): Nestled in Netanya, this venue is a premier event and karaoke bar, offering a stylish interior, a top-notch sound system, and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night.
Minus One (Netanya): A popular dance club located on Herzl Street in Netanya, known for its lively dance floors and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Big Place (Herzliya): A dance club located in the industrial/commercial zone of Herzliya, providing a high-energy spot for dancing and a typical club night out.
D Bar (Herzliya): A dance bar in Herzliya known for its energetic vibe, great music, and lively atmosphere, perfect for a night of dancing and fun.
Adam’s (Herzliya): A popular club in Herzliya, situated in an area known for nightlife, offering a dynamic and engaging club experience.
HIGHLIGHT (Netanya): This centrally located spot in Netanya transitions into a club-like atmosphere as the night progresses, making it a versatile venue.