Butjadingen Beaches

Overview

Butjadingen offers a distinctive coastal getaway on Germany's North Sea, set against the unique backdrop of the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The peninsula is characterized by its 'green beaches,' where grassy dikes meet the water, creating a different kind of seaside setting. Swimming here is an experience tied to the rhythm of the tides, with the water of the North Sea advancing and retreating to reveal vast mudflats, which offer their own special kind of adventure.

The region is exceptionally family-friendly, with highlights catering to all ages. The main beach in Burhave, Badestrand Burhave, is the picturesque heart of the coast. A major attraction here is the Nordsee-Lagune, a large, man-made saltwater lake with a sandy shore that allows for swimming all day, regardless of the tide. For endless fun, Friesenstrand Tossens is a paradise for children, featuring a massive pirate-themed adventure playground right on the coast.

While Butjadingen's coastline is primarily green, there are plenty of sandy areas for sunbathing and playing, blending the best of both worlds. The destination is perfect for families seeking both relaxation and activity in a unique natural landscape. For those wishing to explore beyond the main hubs, our comprehensive guide details all the beaches the Butjadingen peninsula has to offer.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Can you actually swim in the sea at Butjadingen or is it just mudflats?

Yes, you can swim in the North Sea at Butjadingen, but it is highly dependent on the tides. At high tide, swimming is possible at the designated green beaches in places like Burhave and Eckwarderhörne. However, at low tide, the water recedes to expose the vast Wadden Sea mudflats, making swimming impossible. For a tide-independent swimming experience, Burhave features the Nordsee-Lagune, a unique saltwater lake that is always filled with filtered North Sea water, allowing for swimming and splashing all day long, regardless of the tide.

Are the beaches in Butjadingen sandy?

Butjadingen is primarily known for its 'green beaches' (Grünstrände), which are grassy areas on the dykes with direct access to the sea. While you won't find long, natural sandy beaches, there are dedicated sandy areas for sunbathing and playing. The Friesenstrand in Tossens has a large sand area with a pirate-themed playground, and the Nordsee-Lagune in Burhave is a saltwater swimming lake surrounded by a sandy beach. So, while the coastline is mostly green, there are purpose-built sandy spots for that classic beach feel.

Friesenstrand Tossens

Is Butjadingen a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Butjadingen is exceptionally well-suited for a family holiday. The beaches and attractions are very family-oriented. The Nordsee-Lagune in Burhave offers safe, tide-free swimming for children. The Friesenstrand in Tossens is famous for its large adventure playground with a pirate ship theme. Additionally, many beaches have playgrounds, and the flat landscape is perfect for family bike rides. The presence of facilities like the Spielscheune (indoor play barn) in Burhave provides a great alternative for rainy days.

Badestrand Burhave

Friesenstrand Tossens

Can I bring my dog to the beaches in Butjadingen?

Yes, Butjadingen is very dog-friendly, with designated dog beaches in both Burhave and Tossens. At these specific sections, your dog is welcome, and you can even rent beach chairs. Amenities like dog showers are often available. It's important to note that on all beaches and along the dykes, dogs must be kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife in the Wadden Sea National Park. There are also designated dog-free-run areas (Hundefreilaufflächen) away from the main beaches.

Badestrand Burhave

Friesenstrand Tossens

What is the 'Gästekarte' and do I need it for the beach?

The 'Gästekarte' (guest card), also known as the tourist card, is something you receive when you stay overnight in registered accommodation in Butjadingen. It is funded by a visitor's tax (Kurbeitrag). While some beaches like the Friesenstrand in Tossens and the Grünstrand in Burhave are free to access, the guest card provides free entry to the popular Nordsee-Lagune in Burhave. It also offers other benefits, such as free travel on the local 'Strandläufer' bus and discounts on various attractions.

Friesenstrand Tossens

How do I deal with the tides (Ebbe und Flut) when planning a beach day?

The tides are a central part of the North Sea experience, with the water receding for about six hours (Ebbe/low tide) and then returning (Flut/high tide). To plan a swimming day, you must check the daily tide schedule (Gezeitenkalender), which is available online, at tourist information centers, and often at your accommodation. For swimming in the sea, you need to go during high tide. For a unique experience, you can join a guided mudflat walk (Wattwanderung) during low tide. If you want to swim anytime, the Nordsee-Lagune in Burhave is the best option as it is tide-free.

Badestrand Burhave

Which is better for families: the beach in Burhave or Tossens?

Both Burhave and Tossens are excellent for families, but they offer slightly different experiences. Burhave's main attraction is the Nordsee-Lagune, a large saltwater lake with a sandy beach that allows for safe, tide-independent swimming, which is ideal for younger children. Tossens has the Friesenstrand, a large green beach with a massive pirate-themed adventure playground and a sandy area that is a huge draw for kids who love to climb and play. Your choice might depend on whether guaranteed swimming (Burhave) or a spectacular playground (Tossens) is the higher priority.

Friesenstrand Tossens

Can you rent beach chairs (Strandkörbe) in Butjadingen?

Yes, renting a classic German beach chair, or 'Strandkorb', is a key part of the beach experience in Butjadingen. You can rent them by the day or week at all major beach areas, including the green beaches in Burhave, Tossens, and Eckwarderhörne, as well as at the Nordsee-Lagune. It's often possible to book them online in advance, which is recommended during the peak season to secure a spot.

Badestrand Burhave

Friesenstrand Tossens

People Also Ask

Are there any quiet or secret beaches in Butjadingen?

While there are no truly 'secret' beaches, the beach at Eckwarderhörne is often considered a quieter alternative to the main hubs of Burhave and Tossens. Located at the southern tip of the peninsula, this green beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful views across the Jade Bight towards Wilhelmshaven. It's a great spot for those looking to escape the bigger crowds while still enjoying amenities like beach chair rentals and a place to eat.

What is there to do on the beach besides swimming?

The beaches in Butjadingen are hubs for various activities. At low tide, the main activity is guided mudflat hiking (Wattwandern), a unique experience in this UNESCO World Heritage site. The flat dykes are perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling with a sea view. The Friesenstrand in Tossens is famous for its adventure playground and is a popular spot for flying kites. Beach volleyball and football can be played in designated areas, and simply relaxing in a beach chair and watching the ships go by is a popular pastime.

Friesenstrand Tossens

How do I get to the beaches if I'm staying in one of the villages?

The Butjadingen peninsula is relatively flat and well-connected. If you are staying in one of the main coastal towns like Burhave or Tossens, the beach is usually within walking distance. For travel between the different towns and beaches, cycling is extremely popular, with a well-signposted network of paths along the dykes. There is also a local bus service, the 'Strandläufer' (Bus Line 400), which connects the main villages and beaches. Holders of the 'Gästekarte' can use this bus for free.

Is it worth visiting the beaches in the off-season?

Absolutely. While swimming might be reserved for the very brave, the beaches and the coastline of Butjadingen have a unique charm in the autumn and winter. The landscape is perfect for long, bracing walks along the dykes with dramatic skies and far-reaching views. It's a much quieter and more peaceful experience, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature. Many cafes and restaurants remain open, offering a cozy place to warm up with a hot drink after a walk.

Low / High	8.4°C/12.4°C
Feels Like (High)	7.4°C

Sea Temperature	12.1 °C
Wave Height	0.6 m

Rain Chance	53%
Rainfall	4.8 mm
Rain Duration	12 h

Sunrise / Sunset	08:13/18:08
Sunshine Hours	0.2 hrs
UV Index	0.9
Cloud Cover	97%

Speed	41.1 km/h
Gusts	65.9 km/h
Direction	SW

Butjadingen Beaches

Overview

Editor's Pick

Badestrand Burhave

Friesenstrand Tossens

Nordsee-Lagune Butjadingen

Strand Eckwarderhörne

FAQ

Can you actually swim in the sea at Butjadingen or is it just mudflats?

Are the beaches in Butjadingen sandy?

Is Butjadingen a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Can I bring my dog to the beaches in Butjadingen?

What is the 'Gästekarte' and do I need it for the beach?

How do I deal with the tides (Ebbe und Flut) when planning a beach day?

Which is better for families: the beach in Burhave or Tossens?

Can you rent beach chairs (Strandkörbe) in Butjadingen?

Coastal Day Trips

Badestrand Burhave

Dangast Strand

Hooksieler Strand

Südstrand

People Also Ask

Are there any quiet or secret beaches in Butjadingen?

What is there to do on the beach besides swimming?

How do I get to the beaches if I'm staying in one of the villages?

Is it worth visiting the beaches in the off-season?

Beaches for Every Taste

Dog Friendly Beaches in Butjadingen

Nudist Beaches in Butjadingen

The Green Coast

Friesenstrand Tossens

Naturnaher Strand

Badestrand Wremen

Weserstrand Kleinensiel

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Butjadingen Beaches Map

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