Day 133: Caesarea by the Sea.

Our first full day in Israel was spent driving up the western coast, along the Mediterranean.  The drive from Tel Aviv north was excellent - felt like a piece of Southern California in the near East.

We first made a stop at Aqueduct Beach.  With little guidance as to the significance of the site (besides the obvious - aqueducts), we enjoyed walking around, watching Israeli families play by the water, and climbing the dunes.

We then ventured to the town of Caesarea to visit the ruins of the Ancient city. This is by far one of my new favorite historical sites!  The ruins themselves were really well maintained - like whole marble arches still standing, and ancient baths still in formation.  The best part, though, was that the whole site was built along the sea!  It was really something else to walk along and be right by the ocean.

Also, I'd be lying if I didn't say that the fresh falafel we had for lunch didn't add to my enthusiasm about Caesarea.  A good morning of venturing in the books.