Kühlungsborn Beaches

Overview

Kühlungsborn stands out as a classic German seaside resort on the Baltic Sea, offering a relaxed and distinctly family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors often wonder about the vibe, and it's more about tranquil charm than lively parties. The main draw is its expansive, fine-sand beach, which boasts excellent water quality perfect for swimming. The town's commitment to maintaining its pristine environment and extensive promenade makes it a beloved destination for those seeking a traditional coastal holiday.

The coastline offers a surprising variety of beach experiences. The main Kühlungsborn beach is the heart of the resort, famous for its iconic pier and bustling promenade. For a dramatic change of scenery, the Strand an der Steilküste provides a rugged coastline where forests meet the sea. Those seeking tranquility can find it at the more natural Strand am Rieden, while a short trip offers the historic elegance of Heiligendamm. The area also thoughtfully includes designated sections for naturism, a long-standing tradition on the German coast.

Navigating the resort is simple, with the town divided into a livelier eastern part and a quieter western part, both connected by Germany's longest beach promenade. A quintessential part of the experience is renting a traditional wicker beach chair, the 'Strandkorb', to relax and soak in the views. While these highlights offer a fantastic starting point, our comprehensive guide features a longer list of beaches to help you discover even more coastal gems in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Kühlungsborn good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Kühlungsborn is considered an excellent destination for a family beach holiday. The main beach is known for its fine sand and shallow waters, which are safe for children to play in. The town offers numerous family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds along the promenade, a variety of restaurants, and activities like riding the historic "Molli" steam train. Many hotels and rental apartments cater specifically to families.

Can you swim in the Baltic Sea at Kühlungsborn and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the Baltic Sea at Kühlungsborn. The beach has been repeatedly awarded the 'Blue Flag' for its excellent water quality. The water is generally clear and calm with a gentle slope, making it suitable for most swimmers. However, the water temperature is cool, typically only reaching comfortable swimming temperatures of around 20°C (68°F) or slightly above in the peak summer months of July and August.

Do I have to pay to access the beach in Kühlungsborn?

Yes, like most German Baltic seaside resorts, visitors are required to pay a 'Kurtaxe' (tourist tax). This tax contributes to the maintenance of the beach, promenade, and other tourist facilities. The fee is usually paid through your accommodation provider, and you will receive a 'Kurkarte' (resort card) which grants you beach access and sometimes other local discounts. Day visitors can purchase a pass at machines along the promenade.

Are there designated nudist (FKK) beaches in Kühlungsborn?

Yes, Kühlungsborn accommodates naturism, which has a long tradition on Germany's Baltic coast. There are clearly marked sections of the beach designated for 'FKK' (Freikörperkultur), which means clothing-optional. These areas allow for nude sunbathing and swimming in a comfortable environment alongside textile beach areas.

Are there hotels with direct beach access in Kühlungsborn?

Yes, there are several hotels and apartment houses located directly on the Ostseeallee, the road that runs parallel to the beach promenade. These accommodations offer fantastic sea views and are just a few steps away from the sand. Staying in this area provides the most convenient access to the beach and promenade.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Can I bring my dog to the beach in Kühlungsborn?

Yes, Kühlungsborn is very dog-friendly. There are several designated dog beaches ('Hundestrände') where dogs are welcome to run and swim. These are located in Kühlungsborn West (towards Rerik), centrally near the city forest, and east of the marina. During the off-season, typically from November to April, dogs are permitted on all sections of the beach.

What's the best way to get to the beach from the main town areas?

Kühlungsborn is divided into two main parts, Ost (East) and West, connected by the long beach promenade and the Ostseeallee road. Most accommodations are within easy walking or cycling distance of the beach. The town is very pedestrian and bike-friendly. For longer distances between Kühlungsborn Ost and West, you can walk along the promenade, cycle, or take the historic 'Molli' steam train, which has stops in both areas.

How does Kühlungsborn compare to Warnemünde for a beach holiday?

Both are popular German Baltic resorts, but they offer different atmospheres. Kühlungsborn is generally considered more of a relaxed, traditional seaside spa town, ideal for families and those seeking a quieter holiday with its long promenade and classic resort architecture. Warnemünde, being part of the city of Rostock, has a wider, busier beach and a more bustling feel with its cruise ship terminal and livelier town center. The choice depends on whether you prefer a more tranquil resort experience or a beach destination with more urban amenities.

Kühlungsborn