Fehmarnsund Beaches

Overview

Fehmarn, Germany's sunny island in the Baltic Sea, offers a delightful coastal escape. Many visitors wonder if it's suitable for a family holiday, and indeed, Fehmarn is very welcoming to families, with numerous beaches perfect for all ages. The island's waters are generally clean and clear, providing refreshing swims during the warmer summer months.

The island boasts a variety of unique beaches to explore. Burgtiefe stands out as the main hub, bustling with activity and offering wide sandy shores. For those seeking adventure, Strand Gold is a renowned European hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to its ideal conditions. If dramatic coastal scenery is more your style, Strand Katharinenhof impresses with its striking cliffs. Nature lovers will appreciate Strand Grüner Brink, a protected reserve where dunes and birdlife create a tranquil atmosphere.

Beyond these highlights, Fehmarn's diverse coastline means there's a spot for everyone, from lively shores to quieter, more natural beaches perfect for peaceful walks. The island is well-known for its breezy conditions, making it a prime location for various wind-powered water activities. While Fehmarn is more geared towards relaxation and outdoor pursuits than a bustling party scene, its charm captivates many. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches on the island.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Fehmarn a good place for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Fehmarn is very family-friendly. Many beaches, like Südstrand, offer shallow water entry, playgrounds, and lifeguard services during the season, making them ideal for children.

Südstrand

What's the water like for swimming at Fehmarn's beaches? Is it warm?

The Baltic Sea water at Fehmarn is generally clean and clear, with several beaches recognized for their quality. In peak summer months like July and August, water temperatures typically reach around 17-21°C (63-70°F), which many find refreshing for swimming.

Do I need to pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) to access beaches on Fehmarn?

Yes, a visitor's tax, known as 'Kurtaxe' or collected via the 'Ostseecard', is generally required for adults in most of Fehmarn's main beach areas. This fee helps fund beach maintenance, lifeguard services, and other tourist amenities.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Fehmarn?

Yes, Fehmarn is dog-friendly and has several designated dog beaches ('Hundestrände') where dogs are welcome. These are typically signposted and can be found at locations like Grüner Brink, Bojendorf, and Meeschendorf.

Strand Grüner Brink

Strand Bojendorf

Strand Meeschendorf

Are there many beachfront accommodation options on Fehmarn?

Yes, Fehmarn provides a variety of beachfront accommodation choices, including hotels, holiday apartments (Ferienwohnungen), and campsites. These are particularly concentrated in popular areas such as Südstrand (Burgtiefe) and Meeschendorf.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Which beach on Fehmarn is best for kitesurfing and windsurfing?

Fehmarn is a renowned destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Popular spots with favorable conditions include Grüner Brink, Orth, Westermarkelsdorf, and Gold, offering various wind exposures and shallow water areas suitable for these sports.

Strand Grüner Brink

Strand Gold

What's the best time of year for a beach holiday on Fehmarn?

For swimming and typical beach activities, the summer months from June to August are generally considered the best time, with the warmest weather and water temperatures. Spring and autumn offer milder weather suitable for beach walks and exploring the island with fewer crowds.

Is it very windy on Fehmarn's beaches?

Fehmarn is known for being quite windy, which makes it an excellent location for sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. For those looking to sunbathe or relax, using a beach windscreen or renting a traditional German beach chair ('Strandkorb') is often recommended for comfort.

People Also Ask

What are the parking options at Fehmarn's popular beaches like Südstrand?

Popular beaches such as Südstrand have large designated parking areas, though these can become crowded and are usually fee-based, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early, or consider alternatives like cycling or public transport if available.

Südstrand

Are there quiet, natural beaches on Fehmarn away from the crowds?

Yes, Fehmarn offers numerous quieter, natural beaches (Naturstrände) beyond the main bustling spots like Südstrand. These can be found particularly along the western, northern, and eastern coastlines, often featuring dunes, cliffs, and a more tranquil atmosphere.

Südstrand

Can you swim safely near the Fehmarnsund Bridge?

There is a beach area on Fehmarn located near the Fehmarnsund Bridge. While swimming is generally possible, it's important to be aware of potential currents due to the strait and any boat traffic. Always pay attention to local conditions and posted advisories.

What's the difference between Südstrand and other beaches like Grüner Brink on Fehmarn?

Südstrand is Fehmarn's largest and most developed beach, known for its fine white sand, calm shallow waters, piers, and extensive amenities, making it ideal for families. Grüner Brink, in contrast, is a nature reserve beach, popular with birdwatchers and kitesurfers, offering a more natural and sometimes wilder setting.

Südstrand

Strand Grüner Brink

Should I rent a Strandkorb (beach chair) on Fehmarn?

Renting a Strandkorb is a popular and often recommended practice on Fehmarn's beaches. These traditional roofed beach chairs offer comfortable seating, shade, and excellent protection from the wind, which is common on the island. They are widely available for daily or weekly rental.

Are there often jellyfish (Quallen) at Fehmarn's beaches?

Like in many parts of the Baltic Sea, jellyfish can occasionally be present at Fehmarn's beaches, with their appearance often depending on wind, currents, and time of year. Most species encountered are generally harmless, but it's always a good idea to be aware. Local information or beach attendants can often provide updates if there's a notable presence.

Is Fehmarn more for a party holiday or a quiet family vacation?

Fehmarn is primarily known as a destination for families, couples, and individuals seeking relaxation, nature, and outdoor activities such as cycling, sailing, and kitesurfing. While areas like the Südstrand promenade can be lively, Fehmarn is not generally considered a party-focused holiday destination.

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