Israelis are somewhat ambivalent about the Beach. Few die hards, a percent or two, call the sea their passion. Summer brings a big crowd to the beache: families and teen agers on vacation mostly. Popular urban beaches are full on weekends (Tel Aviv, Haifa). Yet there are still plenty of beaches with room to stretch and plenty of swimming and running space.

This Thursday we headed to Tzuk Beach between Tel Aviv and Hertzeliya. Packed tight around the entrance (by the food concession) were families. A few hundred feet away the beaches were practically empty (see picture). The waves were strong at half a meter. Giving teenage kids from the surf school a good day to get a start at the new sport. Here you can bring a dog and play with a frisby or "matkot" - an Israeli game with two wooden paddles and a hard rubber ball. You can also play your favorite musical selection on a boom box and not get strange looks or request for something else.

If you are coming for vacation, add a few hours at the beach. July and August are good months to enjoy the sand and surf.