Pepelow Beaches

Overview

Welcome to the beaches of Pepelow, a unique coastal destination in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. Unlike typical Baltic resorts, Pepelow is situated on the Salzhaff, a calm and shallow lagoon separated from the open sea. This protected location creates a paradise for watersports, especially for beginner kite and windsurfers who can practice in the vast, knee-deep flat water. The area's tranquil, natural setting offers a different kind of seaside experience, focused more on activity and relaxation than bustling promenades.

While Pepelow's own shore is perfect for wading, those seeking classic, wide sandy beaches will find fantastic options nearby. For a full resort experience, head to Kühlungsborn, the region's largest seaside town with a long, sandy beach and pier. A short trip to the scenic island of Poel offers several beautiful choices, including the picturesque Strand Timmendorf Insel Poel with its charming harbor and lighthouse, and the family-friendly Strand am Schwarzen Busch, known for its fine sand and calm waters. For a quieter day, the island's Gollwitzer Strand is a true hidden gem.

The region truly offers the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the unique conditions of the Salzhaff in Pepelow, or drive a few minutes to Rerik, which features both a calm beach on the lagoon and a traditional sandy beach on the open Baltic Sea. This variety makes the area a versatile choice for nearly any kind of beachgoer. For a closer look at these and other coastal spots, be sure to explore our longer list of the area's best beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Pepelow in Schleswig-Holstein or Mecklenburg-Vorpommern?

Pepelow is located in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, not Schleswig-Holstein. It lies on the Salzhaff, a shallow, sheltered bay of the Baltic Sea, situated between the city of Wismar and the resort town of Rerik.

Why is Pepelow so popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing?

Pepelow is a top destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing, especially for beginners, because it's located on the Salzhaff. This large bay is very shallow, creating a vast standing-depth area with flat water, which provides ideal and safe learning conditions. Several surf schools are located directly on the beach.

Is the beach in Pepelow good for a family holiday with children?

Yes, Pepelow is considered very family-friendly. The same shallow water that makes it great for surfers is also perfect for small children, who can splash and play safely without sudden deep spots. The main access is often through a large campsite which features playgrounds and a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere.

Can you actually swim at Pepelow beach?

While you can go into the water, Pepelow is not ideal for traditional swimming where you can quickly reach deep water. The Salzhaff is a 'Stehrevier,' meaning it remains knee-to-waist-deep for hundreds of meters from the shore. It's perfect for wading and cooling off, but those wanting to swim laps will need to walk very far out.

Do I have to stay at the campsite to use the beach?

No, you do not have to be a guest of the campsite to use the beach. The beach is publicly accessible. However, the main access point, parking, and facilities like restrooms and the surf school are located on or adjacent to the Ostseecamping am Salzhaff campsite, for which day visitors may need to pay a fee for parking or entry.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are dogs allowed on the beach in Pepelow?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Pepelow, but there are specific rules. On the main campsite and beach areas, dogs must be kept on a leash. There is a designated dog beach area where they may have more freedom to run. It's important to note that the entire Salzhaff area is a nature reserve, so leashes are often required even on trails.

How does the beach in Pepelow compare to Rerik?

Pepelow and Rerik offer different experiences. Pepelow is exclusively on the calm, shallow Salzhaff, making it a paradise for beginner surfers and families with toddlers. Rerik, just a short drive away, has two sides: a calm beach on the Salzhaff and a classic, wide sandy beach on the open Baltic Sea with waves, a pier, and a promenade.

What is the Salzhaff and how is it different from the Baltic Sea?

The Salzhaff is a shallow, lagoon-like bay that is almost completely separated from the open Baltic Sea by the Wustrow and Boiensdorfer Werder peninsulas. This separation protects it from large waves, making the water calm and flat. It's also generally a few degrees warmer than the open sea due to its shallowness.

Do you have to pay an entrance fee or 'Kurtaxe' (visitor's tax) in Pepelow?

Unlike many other German Baltic Sea resorts like Rerik or Kühlungsborn, Pepelow generally does not charge a 'Kurtaxe' (visitor's tax). However, if you are accessing the beach via the main campsite or using its parking, you may need to pay a day-use or parking fee.

What's the best time of year to visit Pepelow?

The best time depends on your activity. For swimming and family holidays, the warmest months of July and August are ideal. For windsurfing and kitesurfing, the season is longer, from May through September, when winds are often favorable. Spring and autumn are quieter and great for nature walks and cycling.

What is the beach surface like in Pepelow?

The beach in Pepelow is a mix of sand and natural shoreline. It's generally narrower than the wide, sandy beaches of larger Baltic resorts. The area directly at the water's edge can be grassy or have some stones, and the main area for sunbathing is a large grassy lawn that is part of the campsite, right before the sand begins.

Where can I park to visit Pepelow beach?

There is a paid public parking lot located near the entrance to the main campsite, which provides the most direct access to the beach and the surf schools. From the car park, it is a short walk to the shore. Parking is limited, so arriving early on sunny days is recommended.