Which beach on Poel is best for families with small children?
The beaches at Gollwitz and Am Schwarzen Busch are particularly well-suited for families with small children. Both have very shallow water entry, allowing kids to play safely. Gollwitz beach is known for its calm water due to the offshore sandbank and the nearby bird sanctuary island Langenwerder, and it features a pirate ship playground. Am Schwarzen Busch also offers gentle slopes into the water and is supervised by the DLRG (German Life Saving Association) during the main season.
Are there dog-friendly beaches on Insel Poel and what are the rules?
Yes, Insel Poel has designated dog beaches. You can find them at Timmendorf Strand, Am Schwarzen Busch, Gollwitz, and Hinter Wangern. From May to September, dogs must be kept on a leash even at these designated dog beaches. From October to April, dogs are allowed to run off-leash at the dog beaches. In public areas within all villages and on the combined footpath/cycle path between Oertzenhof and Am Schwarzen Busch, dogs must be leashed year-round. Dogs are generally not allowed on the main managed bathing beaches (Textilstrände) outside the designated dog areas during the main season (May 1st to September 30th).
Are there FKK (nudist) beaches on Insel Poel?
Yes, there is an official FKK (nudist) beach at Hinter Wangern, located in the south of the island. This is a natural beach. Additionally, some other main beaches like Am Schwarzen Busch may have designated FKK sections. Unofficial FKK bathing is also tolerated in some more secluded spots between the main beaches.
Do I have to pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) to use the beaches on Insel Poel?
Yes, a tourist tax (Kurtaxe or Kurabgabe) is levied on Insel Poel for most visitors, including day guests using the beaches. The funds are used for maintaining and improving tourist infrastructure, including beach cleaning, path maintenance, and lifeguard services. The fee is typically paid through your accommodation provider or at machines at the main beaches if you are a day visitor. The amount varies by season and age.
Where can I find accommodation close to the beach on Insel Poel?
There are accommodations (holiday homes, guesthouses, hotels) in the main coastal villages like Timmendorf, Am Schwarzen Busch, and Gollwitz that offer proximity to the beaches. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as beach-близкие accommodations are popular.
What's the water temperature like for swimming in summer on Insel Poel?
During the summer months, particularly July and August, the water temperature of the Baltic Sea around Insel Poel typically ranges from 17°C to 20°C. On warm, sunny days in shallow areas, it can sometimes exceed 20°C, potentially reaching up to 23°C. The shallow waters at many Poel beaches tend to warm up relatively quickly.
Which is the quietest or most natural beach on Insel Poel?
For a quieter, more natural beach experience, Gollwitz is often recommended as it's generally less crowded than Timmendorf Strand and offers views of the Langenwerder bird sanctuary. Hinter Wangern is also a naturstrand (natural beach), known for its FKK section and tranquility. There are also smaller, unnamed natural beach sections between Am Schwarzen Busch and Timmendorf Strand that have minimal infrastructure and offer more seclusion.
Is it easy to park near the beaches on Insel Poel and is it free?
Parking is available near the main beaches like Timmendorf Strand, Am Schwarzen Busch, and Gollwitz, but it is generally not free. There are paid parking lots, often with options for hourly or daily tickets. For example, at Am Schwarzen Busch, the main car park is about 500 meters from the beach. Some more remote or natural beach sections might have limited or no official parking.
Can you rent beach chairs (Strandkörbe) on Insel Poel's beaches?
Yes, beach chairs (Strandkörbe) are available for rent at the main beaches such as Timmendorf Strand, Am Schwarzen Busch, and Gollwitz. It's advisable to rent them early, especially during peak season, as they are popular.
How does Insel Poel compare to other Baltic Sea islands like Rügen or Usedom?
Insel Poel is generally considered smaller, quieter, and more nature-focused compared to larger and more bustling islands like Rügen or Usedom. While Rügen and Usedom offer more extensive tourist infrastructure, famous seaside resorts, and diverse landscapes, Poel is often favored by those seeking a more relaxed, family-oriented holiday with an emphasis on natural beaches and a less crowded atmosphere.
What is the best time of year for a beach holiday on Insel Poel?
The best time for a beach holiday on Insel Poel, with the warmest weather and water temperatures for swimming, is typically from June to August. The shoulder seasons (May, September) can also be pleasant with fewer crowds, though the water might be cooler. Winter offers a very different, quiet experience focused on nature walks.
Are the beaches on Insel Poel suitable for swimming?
Yes, the beaches on Insel Poel are generally suitable for swimming, especially during the summer months. Most beaches have gently sloping entries into the water, which is particularly good for families. The main beaches like Am Schwarzen Busch and Timmendorf Strand are supervised by lifeguards (DLRG) during the peak season (June to September). Water quality is regularly monitored and generally rated as very good.
What kind of holiday is Insel Poel best for regarding its beaches?
Insel Poel is ideal for a relaxing beach holiday focused on nature, families, and those seeking a quieter atmosphere. Its beaches are well-suited for swimming, sunbathing, and gentle water activities. It's less of a party destination and more about enjoying the natural surroundings, cycling, and unwinding.
How do I get to the different beaches on Insel Poel?
The main beaches like Timmendorf, Am Schwarzen Busch, and Gollwitz are accessible by car, with parking areas nearby. Cycling is also a very popular way to explore the island and reach the beaches, as Poel has a good network of cycle paths. Some accommodations are within walking distance of a beach, but to visit multiple beaches, a car or bicycle is recommended.
Are there any beaches on Poel with sports facilities or activities?
Timmendorf Strand is known for being more active, offering watersport opportunities such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, and waterskiing. Some beaches like Gollwitz have facilities for beach volleyball. Generally, Poel's beaches are more focused on relaxation and nature, but Timmendorf offers more for those seeking some action.
