The David Kempinski Tel Aviv

If you’re having trouble deciding between the beach and the city, you’re in luck here: Set on HaYarkon Street, this 34-story hotel is just steps from the beach and the Tel Aviv Promenade. Then, just beyond, you have the entire city—and many cultural touch points—easily accessible, with, for instance, Jaffa Old City, Rothschild Boulevard, and the Tel Aviv Museum all less than 15 minutes away. The airport is about a 35-minute drive and a “VIP Meet & Greet” pick-up can be arranged with the hotel. Or, there’s on-site parking, if you opt to rent a car, instead. Along with exploring the city itself, the location makes venturing to other areas possible, too, with Jerusalem just an hour away.  

With a sophisticated and streamlined vibe, the hotel offers just the right amount of opulence, which pairs well with both the grounding colors and the natural light—plus the blue views of the Mediterranean—that come through the many large windows throughout the property. The 250 rooms and suites impress (lots have sea views) and we’d recommend opting for one that offers access to the Horizon Lounge, a haven on the 22nd floor that includes complimentary food and drinks, its own pool and terrace, and private check-in and check-out against the backdrop of the beach. (Just note if you’re traveling with kids that the lounge is for those 13 and up.) When it comes to accommodations, the crown jewel is, no doubt, the three-floor, over 4,000-square-foot David Penthouse Suite, which includes a gym, private infinity pool, and separate bedrooms and living spaces.

The fact that the hotel offers direct access to the beach is a big draw here, but there’s so much more to love as well. First up: Dining. There are five on-site kosher options, including the signature fish-focused, beachfront Sereia Restaurant, where you can enjoy all three meals, as well as a Friday Shabbat dinner. For lighter fare, check out Sereia Lounge, while The Common is home to the country’s first Cohiba Atmosphere cigar bar and House of Macallan whisky bar.

Activities—jet skiing, sailing, bike riding—abound on the beach and at the hotel, but if you prefer to hang by the pool, you can do so at the 5th-floor infinity pool. (One idea: Pair it with a drink or snack, like lamb quesadillas or Peruvian ceviche, from The Pool Bar.) On deck for 2023 is the rooftop Cloud51, a private pool and lounge area for guests who book the Signature Suites that turns into an open-to-the-public nightlife spot in the evenings. Then, of course, there’s everything the city itself has to offer. Some insider tips: Try the traditional and colorful hummus at Abu Hassan, visit the Ilana Goor museum in Jaffa to see an amazing and eclectic art collection, and listen to live jazz at the prestigious Beit Haamudim, where performances are capped at 10 people.

If you book through F1S, you’ll receive daily breakfast for two, a $100 food and beverage credit, and complimentary welcome amenities as well as an upgrade and early check-in/late check-out, if available.