Eutin Beaches

Overview

Eutin offers a unique holiday experience, set within Germany's beautiful Holstein Switzerland region. While it is known as a water-lover's paradise, visitors should know that the town itself is nestled among tranquil freshwater lakes, not directly on the sea. This provides the best of both worlds: serene lakeside swimming spots are right at your doorstep, while the lively sandy beaches of the Baltic Sea are just a short drive away, making Eutin an ideal base for a diverse waterside vacation.

For a classic seaside day trip, the Baltic coast offers some of Germany's most famous resorts. The editor's pick, Timmendorfer Strand, is renowned for its upscale, vibrant atmosphere and long sandy beach perfect for people-watching. Nearby, Scharbeutz offers a similarly popular but more relaxed vibe. For those seeking action, Pelzerhaken Strand is the undisputed hub for windsurfing and kitesurfing. And if you're looking to escape the biggest crowds for a more peaceful day on the coast, the quieter shores of Sierksdorfer Strand provide a perfect retreat.

Back in Eutin, the experience is entirely different, offering a peaceful alternative to the bustling coast. The town's lakeside bathing areas provide calm, fresh water in a natural, forested setting. These spots are perfect for a relaxing swim or simply enjoying the quiet scenery. Whether you prefer the energetic vibe of the Baltic Sea or the calm of an inland lake, our complete guide explores all the best beaches and local swimming spots to help you plan your perfect trip.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Eutin a good destination for a beach holiday?

Eutin is a fantastic destination for a water-based holiday, but it's important to know it's located in the heart of the Holstein Switzerland region, surrounded by lakes, not directly on the sea. The town offers beautiful lakeside swimming spots ('Badestellen') on the Great Eutin Lake. For a classic sandy beach experience, the popular Baltic Sea (Ostsee) resorts like Scharbeutz and Haffkrug are only a 20-30 minute drive away, making Eutin a great base to enjoy both tranquil lakes and the lively coast.

Scharbeutzer Strand Ostsee

Can you actually swim in the lakes around Eutin, and is the water clean?

Yes, you can swim in the lakes around Eutin, such as the Großer Eutiner See and Kellersee. The water quality is generally very good and regularly monitored during the summer months. There is a historic public bathing area (Freibadeanstalt) on the Great Eutin Lake with amenities, as well as several smaller, more natural swimming spots along the shores that are popular with locals.

What's the difference between swimming in the Eutin lakes and the nearby Baltic Sea beaches?

Swimming in Eutin's lakes offers a calm, freshwater experience in a natural, forested setting. The lakeside spots are generally quieter, more relaxed, and often free to access. The Baltic Sea beaches, like those in Scharbeutz or Timmendorfer Strand, provide a classic seaside experience with wide sandy shores, salty water with waves, bustling promenades with shops and restaurants, and amenities like beach chair (Strandkorb) rentals. The sea beaches are livelier and require a daily tourist tax (Kurtaxe) in season.

Timmendorfer Strand

How far are the Baltic Sea beaches from Eutin and what's the best way to get there?

The nearest Baltic Sea beaches, such as Haffkrug and Scharbeutz, are approximately 15-20 kilometers (about 9-12 miles) from Eutin. The most convenient way to reach them is by car, which typically takes 20-30 minutes. There are also regional bus and train connections available, which may require a transfer in a nearby town.

Where is the best area to stay in Eutin for easy access to a swimming spot?

To be closest to the water, look for accommodation near the 'Seepark' or along the shores of the Great Eutin Lake (Großer Eutiner See). This area puts you within walking distance of the historic public swimming area and the lakeside promenade. The district of Fissau is also a great option, as it is situated directly between the Great Eutin Lake and the Kellersee, offering access to both.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Do I have to pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) to use the beaches near Eutin?

You do not need to pay a tourist tax to use the lakeside swimming spots within Eutin. However, if you visit the Baltic Sea coastal resorts like Scharbeutz, Timmendorfer Strand, or Haffkrug, you will be required to pay a daily Kurabgabe or 'tourist tax' during the main season (typically April to October) for beach access. This fee helps maintain the beach, promenades, and public facilities. You can usually pay this at machines along the promenade or at tourist information offices.

Scharbeutzer Strand Ostsee

Timmendorfer Strand

Which beaches near Eutin are best for families with small children?

For families with young children, the official swimming area (Freibadeanstalt) on the Great Eutin Lake is a great choice due to its calm, shallow entry points and facilities. On the Baltic Sea coast, the beach at Haffkrug is often recommended for families as it tends to be slightly quieter than its neighbors, with gentle slopes into the water and nearby playgrounds.

Hundestrand Haffkrug

Are there any free or less crowded swimming spots in Eutin away from the main beach?

Yes, besides the main public swimming area (Freibadeanstalt) on the Great Eutin Lake, there are several smaller, unofficial 'Naturbadestellen' (natural bathing spots) around the lakes. For example, on a bike tour around the Kellersee, you can find quieter spots like the 'Hamburger Strand,' which is a small, simple beach area perfect for a quick dip.

Hamburger Strand

People Also Ask

Besides swimming, what other water activities can you do on the Eutin lakes?

The lakes in Eutin are popular for a variety of water sports. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) to explore the water. There are also options for boat tours on the Great Eutin Lake, which offer a different perspective of the castle and landscape. Fishing is another popular activity, with permits available locally.

Should I go to Scharbeutz or Timmendorfer Strand from Eutin?

The choice between Scharbeutz and Timmendorfer Strand depends on the vibe you're looking for. Timmendorfer Strand is known for being a bit more upscale and lively, with more shopping, the Sea Life aquarium, and a famous pier with a restaurant. Scharbeutz has a slightly more relaxed, modern, and family-friendly atmosphere with a long, beautiful promenade and trendy beach lounges. The two towns blend into one another, so you can easily walk or bike between them.

Timmendorfer Strand

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Eutin and at the Baltic Sea?

Rules for dogs vary. At the official lakeside swimming areas in Eutin, dogs are generally not permitted in the water or on the sunbathing lawns. However, they are welcome on the walking paths around the lakes. The Baltic Sea resorts like Scharbeutz and Timmendorfer Strand have specially designated dog beaches (Hundestrände) where dogs are welcome year-round and can often run off-leash. Outside of these designated zones, dogs are typically not allowed on the main beaches during the high season (April-October).

Timmendorfer Strand

What is the parking situation like at the popular Baltic Sea beaches like Scharbeutz?

Parking at popular Baltic Sea resorts like Scharbeutz and Timmendorfer Strand can be challenging and expensive, especially on sunny days in the summer. There are several large, paid parking lots (Parkplätze), but they fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early in the morning or consider using public transport from Eutin to avoid the stress of finding a spot.

Timmendorfer Strand

Eutin Beaches

Overview

Editor's Pick

Timmendorfer Strand

Pelzerhaken Strand

Sierksdorfer Strand

Seebadeanstalt am Großen Eutiner See

Scharbeutz Strand

FAQ

Is Eutin a good destination for a beach holiday?

Can you actually swim in the lakes around Eutin, and is the water clean?

What's the difference between swimming in the Eutin lakes and the nearby Baltic Sea beaches?

How far are the Baltic Sea beaches from Eutin and what's the best way to get there?

Where is the best area to stay in Eutin for easy access to a swimming spot?

Do I have to pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) to use the beaches near Eutin?

Which beaches near Eutin are best for families with small children?

Are there any free or less crowded swimming spots in Eutin away from the main beach?

Family Beach Days

Strand Haffkrug

Strand Scharbeutz

Hohwacht Strand

Sierksdorfer Strand

People Also Ask

Besides swimming, what other water activities can you do on the Eutin lakes?

Should I go to Scharbeutz or Timmendorfer Strand from Eutin?

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Eutin and at the Baltic Sea?

What is the parking situation like at the popular Baltic Sea beaches like Scharbeutz?

Beaches for Every Taste

Dog Friendly Beaches in Eutin

Nudist Beaches in Eutin

Quiet Coastal Corners

Sierksdorfer Strand

Hamburger Strand

Kurtaxenfreier Strand

Bliesdorf Strand

Explore More Local Beaches

Hundestrand Haffkrug

Hundestrand Grömitz

Scharbeutzer Strand Ostsee

FKK Strand Scharbeutz

Kurstrand Hohwacht

Strand Neustadt

Badesteg Rettiner Strand

Strand am Jachthafen

Hamburger Strand

Eutin Beaches Map

Eutin: Weather Today

Explore More