Groß Zicker Beaches

Overview

Groß Zicker offers a different kind of German beach holiday, centered on tranquility and nature rather than bustling seaside resorts. Located on the Mönchgut peninsula, its beach lies on the calm, shallow waters of a bay known as the Greifswalder Bodden, not the open Baltic Sea. This sheltered position creates a peaceful environment, perfect for visitors who want to relax by the water or combine a swim with a hike through the scenic nearby hills. The atmosphere is quiet and uncrowded, appealing to those looking to unwind in a natural setting.

While Groß Zicker provides a peaceful retreat, the classic Baltic resort experience is just a short journey away. For a traditional family day on the sand, the editor's pick of Nordstrand in Göhren is a top choice with its fine sand and shallow entry. Nearby, Südstrand Göhren offers a more natural, clothing-optional (FKK) experience for those seeking tranquility. For a livelier atmosphere, Binzer Strand is the island's most popular resort beach, featuring a long promenade, beautiful architecture, and full amenities.

Beyond the top picks, the region is rich with diverse coastal spots. The wide, sandy expanse of Baaber Strand is another popular choice, connecting seamlessly with Göhren and offering a classic resort feel. Whether you prefer the quiet bay of Groß Zicker or the lively shores of the larger resorts, the Mönchgut peninsula serves as an ideal base for exploring the varied coastline. For more ideas, be sure to explore our complete guide to the best beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Groß Zicker a good destination for a classic beach holiday?

Groß Zicker is perfect for a nature-focused and tranquil beach holiday, but not a classic one with bustling promenades. Its beach is a natural beach on the calm Greifswalder Bodden (a bay), not the open Baltic Sea. This means calmer, shallower waters and a more peaceful atmosphere compared to the main resorts on Rügen. It's ideal for visitors who want to combine relaxing on the beach with activities like hiking and cycling in the surrounding Zickersche Alpen hills.

Is the beach in Groß Zicker suitable for families with small children?

Yes, the beach in Groß Zicker is very suitable for families with small children. Because it's located on the Bodden (bay), the water is much calmer and shallower than on the open Baltic Sea. There are no strong waves, making it a safe environment for little ones to splash and play. The beach is also typically less crowded than the main tourist beaches on Rügen.

How does the beach in Groß Zicker compare to the beaches in Göhren or Baabe?

The main difference is location and atmosphere. Groß Zicker's beach is a quiet, natural beach on the inner bay (Bodden). In contrast, Göhren and Baabe feature long, wide, sandy beaches on the open Baltic Sea with extensive infrastructure, including promenades, piers, beach chair rentals, and numerous cafes. Choose Groß Zicker for tranquility and nature; choose Göhren or Baabe for a classic seaside resort experience with more amenities and crowds.

Can you actually swim at the beach in Groß Zicker, and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim at the beach. The water is part of the Greifswalder Bodden, a large, calm bay of the Baltic Sea. This means the water is typically a bit warmer, calmer, and has fewer waves than the open sea, offering a more sheltered swimming experience. The water quality is regularly monitored and is generally rated as excellent.

What kind of accommodation is typical in Groß Zicker near the beach?

Accommodation in Groß Zicker largely consists of holiday homes and apartments ('Ferienwohnungen'), many of which are in charming, traditional thatched-roof houses ('Reetdachhäuser'). As the village is small and compact, most accommodations are within easy walking distance of the beach.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is there a nudist (FKK) beach section in Groß Zicker?

Yes, in keeping with the strong FKK (Freikörperkultur, or free body culture) tradition on Germany's Baltic coast, Groß Zicker has a designated nudist beach area. Signage on the beach will indicate the start of the FKK section.

Are dogs allowed on the beach in Groß Zicker?

Yes, there is a designated dog beach (Hundestrand) in Groß Zicker where dogs are welcome. As with most German beaches, dogs must be kept out of the main bathing areas and FKK sections. Look for the signs that mark the specific dog-friendly zone.

Can you combine hiking and swimming in Groß Zicker?

Absolutely. This is one of the main attractions of the area. You can take a scenic hike through the rolling hills known as the 'Zickersche Alpen' and then cool off with a swim at the natural beach below. Several trails offer stunning views over the Bodden landscape before leading you down towards the water.