Caesarea, Israel

Caesarea is a modern coastal community established out of an ancient port.

Built by Herod the Great more than 2,000 years ago, Caesarea was named in honor of Emperor Caesar Augustus. In its modern incarnation, the suburban settlement was re-established and first planned by the “Caesarea Fund” in 1958, an initiative of Baron Edmond Benjamin de Rothschild who envisioned the community and gifted thousands of acres for its development.

The town is located equidistant between Tel Aviv and Haifa, about 28 miles from each city, making it a commutable drive for residents. But that’s far from its only draw. Today Caesara is in demand by Israeli elite and international buyers for its beauty, amenities and climate where the waters of the Mediterranean Sea can be enjoyed most of the year. Families also flock here for its well-regarded school system.

Remnants of the ancient city form Caesarea National Park. The old port is lined with restaurants and is a stunning home for the annual Caesarea Jazz Festival. A restored Roman amphitheatre built in 22 BCE, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is now a performing venue hosting Israeli and international artists. The national park also features the only underwater archaeological museum of its kind. Divers can explore the submerged ruins of Herod’s harbor. New discoveries are fairly regular occurrences. 

Outside the park is Caesarea Aqueduct Beach, which has been called one of the best in Israel. Despite its popularity, crowds are rarely an issue.

The new town of Caesarea is an affluent area of some 4,500 residents, broken out into neighborhood zones or clusters. It boasts the only international-level golf course in Israel. Built in the 1960s by the Rothschild family, the course has been upgraded over the years and most recently renovated and designed by Pete Dye. 

The most popular residential clusters in Caesarea are those facing the golf course or facing the sea. Some homes face both. Palatial estates, classic villas, cottages, condominiums and buildable lots are among the property offerings.