Among these nature reserves called kibbutzim, Kibbutz Palmachim is undoubtedly a sort of paradise. The kibbutz itself is located right on the shoreline, about 10 km south of Tel Aviv, with amazing sunsets alongside sprawling lawns and Mediterranean kibbutz life.
Anywhere else in the world, this sort of place would quickly become a tourist attraction. But not Kibbutz Palmachim. There is no guest house in Palmachim, no cafe or restaurant, no boutique shops or guided tours. There is nothing because nothing is needed. There is a sea, and what more does one need?
It is not entirely accurate to say that there are no attractions on Kibbutz Palmachim – there is the Palmachim Maritime Museum which presents local archeology and marine ecology and in addition to the visit offers tours and guides. The museum began as a hobby of late Kibbutz member and one of its founders, Shmuel Lifshitz. Lifshitz began collecting potsherds that were exposed by winter storms or were raised in fishing nets and his restoration of the artifacts ultimately led to the establishment of the museum. Lifshitz was also a gifted sculptor and a number of his sculptures adorn the kibbutz paths (including those of surfers on the sprawling lawns).
Photos: Kibbutz Palmachim