Getting from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea and Masada is not as easy as getting from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea and Masada but is still totally do able.
One option is to go as part of a day tour. However, if you’re reading this chances are that is not the option you’re most interested in.
Drive
Your best option is to drive there.
This is because it gives you the most control over your own schedule and is the least complicated.
You simply drive down rout 1 until you reach rout 90 and then down rout 90 until you reach wherever you want to go.
All the major destinations in the Judean Desert are along rout 90 including the Dead Sea and Masada.
However, the roads are notorious for their downhill and winding nature, so drive slowly, carefully, and don’t be tempted to pass a truck on the way.
When you see a gas station, make the most of the opportunity to fill your gas tank up because they are rare.
Also, make sure to have cash on you because many gas stations and restaurants and such do not accept non-local credit cards.
As you drive down south, you’ll find the various Dead Sea Beaches, then Ein Gedi, Masada, and finally Ein Bokek.
You can even continue straight down to Eilat, which is a few hours further away.
It’s important to note that you should only stop at official Dead Sea beaches or risk stepping into a sink hole.
Taxi
If you’d rather not drive yourself, taking a taxi is another option.
It is not the cheapest, but it is the most continent if you don’t want to drive yourself.
Bus
There is only one bus that goes from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea and Masada and that is Eged Bus 421.
It continently stops by Masada and a bunch of Dead Sea hotels.
However, it only runs once a day, which is fine if you plan things well.
Also, keep in mind that there are no buses from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening.
Alternate Option
It is easier to get to the Dead Sea and Masada from Jerusalem rather than from Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea and Masada.
So, you may want to work your itinerary where you leave to Masada and the Dead Sea after spending a day or two in Jerusalem.