Schleswig-Holstein, Germany

Heiligendamm Beaches

Overview

Heiligendamm, in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is a distinguished beach destination, famously recognized as Germany's oldest seaside resort. It offers an excellent choice for a relaxing and upscale holiday by the Baltic Sea. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful white sandy beaches and historic charm, promising a serene coastal escape.

The main beach, Heiligendamm, captivates with its fine white sands, iconic pier, and elegant architecture. While it offers a generally tranquil experience, it can get busy during peak times. The waters here are typically calm and clear, inviting for a swim, and the beach is largely publicly accessible. For varied coastal scenery, Strand Nienhagen presents a unique landscape where a forest dramatically meets the sea. Nearby, Warnemünde provides a lively resort atmosphere with its wide beach and famous lighthouse, and Kühlungsborn is a top pick for families with its vast sands and calm waters.

Beyond these prominent spots, the coastline offers diverse experiences. You might explore the natural appeal of beaches like Börgerende, known for its quieter stretches and natural beach. Our guide features a longer list of beaches, ensuring you can find the perfect setting for activities like sunbathing, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the scenic Baltic views. Discover more options to complete your coastal visit.

FAQ

Is Heiligendamm a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Heiligendamm is renowned for its beautiful white sandy beaches and historic pier, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing and upscale beach holiday on the Baltic Sea. It's famously known as Germany's oldest seaside resort.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

What is the beach like in Heiligendamm?

The main beach in Heiligendamm is a long, fine sandy beach with clear, shallow waters, characteristic of the Baltic Sea. It's well-maintained, and parts of it are backed by the elegant architecture of the "White Town by the Sea." Some sections can be stonier, especially in natural beach areas.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Can you swim in the sea at Heiligendamm? What is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the Baltic Sea at Heiligendamm. The water is generally calm and clear, with shallow entry points ideal for families. Water temperatures are coolest in spring and warmest in July and August (around 18-22°C), though it can still be quite refreshing. The water quality is generally good, often marked by the Blue Flag.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

When is the best time to visit Heiligendamm for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday with swimming in Heiligendamm is during the summer months, from June to August, when air and water temperatures are warmest. May and September can also be pleasant for beach walks and relaxation, though the water will be cooler.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Do I have to pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) to use the beach in Heiligendamm?

Yes, like many German seaside resorts, Heiligendamm charges a tourist tax (Kurtaxe). This fee contributes to the maintenance of beach facilities, cleanliness, and safety services. It's usually paid through your accommodation or at tourist information points/automata at beach entrances.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Can I rent beach chairs (Strandkörbe) in Heiligendamm?

Yes, renting a traditional German beach chair (Strandkorb) is very popular in Heiligendamm. There are several rental providers along the beach. It's advisable to book them in advance, especially during peak season, as they are in high demand.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Is Heiligendamm beach family-friendly?

Yes, Heiligendamm's main beach is considered very family-friendly. It offers fine sand for playing, shallow and calm waters for safe paddling, and good facilities including DLRG supervision in designated areas. The relaxed atmosphere also appeals to families.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Are there dog-friendly beaches in Heiligendamm?

Yes, Heiligendamm has designated beach sections (Hundestrände) where dogs are allowed, sometimes year-round or with seasonal restrictions. These are clearly marked. Outside these areas, dogs are generally not permitted on the main bathing beaches, especially during peak season (May to October). Leash rules may apply even on dog beaches.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

People Also Ask

What's the parking situation like near Heiligendamm beach?

Parking directly at the beach in Heiligendamm is available but can be limited and is generally paid. There are public parking areas, such as along the Seedeichstraße or the Waldparkplatz, but they can fill up quickly in summer. Arriving early or using public transport like the Molli train is advisable.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

How does Heiligendamm beach compare to Kühlungsborn beach?

Heiligendamm beach is generally perceived as more exclusive, quieter, and with a strong historical, upscale ambiance due to the Grand Hotel. Kühlungsborn, while also popular, is larger, has a longer beach promenade with more shops, restaurants, and a livelier atmosphere with more activities.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm
Kühlungsborn
Kühlungsborn

Is the beach in Heiligendamm crowded?

Heiligendamm beach tends to be less crowded than some larger Baltic resorts, offering a more tranquil experience. However, during peak summer holidays (July-August) and on sunny weekends, it can get busy, especially the main sections near the pier and Grand Hotel.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Are there public access points to the beach in Heiligendamm, or is it mostly private?

The beach in Heiligendamm is largely publicly accessible. While the Grand Hotel Heiligendamm has a prominent beachfront, there are multiple public access paths (Strandzugänge) to the main beach areas for everyone to enjoy.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

What kind of activities can you do at Heiligendamm beach besides swimming?

Besides swimming, popular activities include sunbathing, walking or jogging along the shore, beach volleyball in designated areas, and enjoying the views from the historic pier (Seebrücke). The scenic coastal path is also great for cycling. Watersports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddling are also possible, with a surf school available.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

Are there any naturist or FKK beach sections in Heiligendamm?

Yes, Heiligendamm has designated FKK (Freikörperkultur - nudist) beach sections. These are typically signposted. For example, Strandzugang 3 is mentioned as an FKK area, and there are FKK sections towards Börgerende and west towards Wittenbeck.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm

How do I get to Heiligendamm beach using the Molli train?

The historic narrow-gauge steam train, "Molli," has a stop in Heiligendamm ("Bahnhof Heiligendamm"). From the station, it's a short walk (a few hundred meters) to the beach and the pier. The Molli train connects Kühlungsborn, Heiligendamm, and Bad Doberan, offering a scenic way to arrive.
Heiligendamm
Heiligendamm
Kühlungsborn
Kühlungsborn

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Heiligendamm: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Today might not be ideal for the beach in Heiligendamm. The maximum air temperature will be 21 °C. Expect mostly cloudy skies. There is a chance of rain, so it's worth keeping an eye on the sky. The wind will be light, but occasional stronger gusts are possible. The sea temperature is 19.0 °C, which is cool. The UV index is only 4.2, so the sun's rays aren't very strong today.
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Air

Low / High12.3°C/21°C
Feels Like (High)23°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature19.0 °C
Wave Height0.5 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance50%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:35/19:44
Sunshine Hours9.5 hrs
UV Index4.2
Cloud Cover71%
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Wind

Speed13 km/h
Gusts29.5 km/h
DirectionE

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