Palestinians visit a beach in Israel

Palestinian children from the West Bank village of Samoa cross the Meitar checkpoint on their way to a beach in Israel Photograph: Nasser Shiyoukhi/AP

The Palestinians examine their permits to enter Israel Photograph: NASSER SHIYOUKHI/AP

Palestinian children pause for a moment at the checkpoint Photograph: Nasser Shiyoukhi/AP

Some of the children jump straight into the water, wearing rubber rings for safety Photograph: Ariel Schalit/AP

Their mothers, equally thrilled, keep their veils in place while sitting on plastic chairs at the water's edge Photograph: Ariel Schalit/AP

It is a rare opportunity for Palestinian families to enjoy the beach together Photograph: Ariel Schalit/AP

What seems like a routine summer day in the Middle East, is actually a refreshing first for these Palestinian children from the landlocked West Bank Photograph: Ariel Schalit/AP