Is Poseritz a good place for a beach holiday?
Poseritz itself is a small, quiet inland town on the island of Rügen, located in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, not Schleswig-Holstein. While it offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, it is not directly on the coast. To access Rügen's famous sandy beaches, like those in Binz, Sellin, or Göhren, you will need to travel by car or public transport. Poseritz is better suited for travelers looking for a quiet base to explore the entire island, including its natural landscapes, hiking trails, and the more bustling seaside resorts.
What are the beaches on Rügen like and can you swim in the sea?
The beaches on Rügen, particularly in famous resorts like Binz and Sellin, are known for their long stretches of fine, white sand and calm, shallow waters, making them very family-friendly. You can definitely swim in the Baltic Sea, but be prepared for cool temperatures. In the peak summer months of July and August, the water temperature typically ranges from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). While refreshing on a hot day, it's colder than Mediterranean destinations.
When is the best time to visit Rügen for a beach holiday?
The best time for a classic beach holiday on Rügen is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This period offers the warmest weather and the most sunshine hours, with air temperatures sometimes climbing above 30°C. However, this is also the peak season, meaning beaches and towns are crowded, and accommodation prices are at their highest. For fewer crowds with still pleasant weather for beach walks, consider visiting in late spring (May) or early autumn (September).
How do I get to the main beaches from an inland town like Poseritz?
The most convenient way to get from Poseritz to Rügen's main beaches is by car, which offers the most flexibility for exploring different coastal areas. The major seaside resorts like Binz and Sellin are a drive away. Public transportation is also an option; you can take a bus to a larger town like Bergen (about 10 km away) and then connect to other bus lines or the historic 'Rasender Roland' steam train, which links several of the main beach resorts like Binz, Sellin, and Göhren.
Which is better, Binz or Sellin?
Choosing between Binz and Sellin depends on your preference. Binz is the largest and most bustling resort on Rügen, offering a very long and wide sandy beach, an extensive promenade with many shops and restaurants, and a more cosmopolitan, sometimes crowded, atmosphere. Sellin is smaller, often described as quieter, and is famous for its stunning pier with a restaurant. While both have beautiful resort architecture, Sellin's beach is shorter and accessed via a cliff, with an elevator available. Binz is generally better for those seeking more activity, while Sellin appeals to those looking for a slightly more relaxed family holiday vibe.
Are there dog-friendly beaches on Rügen?
Yes, Rügen is very dog-friendly. Most of the main seaside resorts, including Binz, Sellin, Glowe, and Juliusruh, have designated dog beaches (Hundestrände) where your pet is welcome. These sections are clearly marked. In the off-season (typically from October to April), rules are often more relaxed, and dogs may be allowed on most beaches, though it's always best to check local signage.
What are the 'Strandkörbe' and do I have to pay for them?
A 'Strandkorb' is a traditional German hooded beach chair, designed to provide comfortable seating while protecting you from wind and sun. You'll see them lined up on all the main beaches. They are not free to use; you must rent them from a local vendor (Strandkorbvermietung) on the beach. Prices vary by location and season, but you can typically rent them by the hour, day, or week. Daily rentals often start from around 12-20 euros.
Are there nudist (FKK) beaches on Rügen?
Yes, nudism, known as FKK (Freikörperkultur or 'Free Body Culture'), has a long tradition on Germany's Baltic coast, and Rügen is no exception. Most popular beaches, such as those in Binz, Sellin, and Baabe, have clearly marked FKK sections alongside the main textile beaches. There are also more secluded, nature-focused beaches that are popular with FKK enthusiasts.
How do the beaches on Rügen compare to Sylt?
Rügen and Sylt offer distinct German island experiences. Rügen's beaches are on the calmer Baltic Sea, characterized by fine sand, gentle waves, and the backdrop of chalk cliffs or forests. Sylt is in the rougher North Sea, featuring vast, windswept beaches with more dramatic tides and powerful waves, making it a top spot for surfing. While both are popular and can be upscale, Sylt is often perceived as more exclusive and expensive, whereas Rügen offers a broader range of atmospheres, from bustling family resorts to quiet natural areas.
Do you have to pay a tourist tax to access the beaches?
Yes, in the main seaside resorts (Ostseebäder) like Binz and Sellin, visitors are required to pay a local tourist tax called a 'Kurtaxe'. This tax is usually paid through your accommodation provider and the proof of payment (Kurkarte) should be carried with you. It contributes to the maintenance of beaches, promenades, and other tourist facilities. The fee is typically a few euros per person per day.
Is it easy to find parking near the beaches on Rügen?
Parking directly at the most popular beaches, like in Binz or Sellin, can be difficult and expensive, especially during the summer high season. The main resorts have limited spaces near the beach, and many are reserved for short-term parking. It is common to use larger car parks located a 10-20 minute walk from the beach. For major attractions like the Königsstuhl cliffs, the main car park is several kilometers away, with a shuttle bus service available.
Are there quieter, less crowded beaches on Rügen?
Yes, if you want to escape the crowds of the main resorts, Rügen has many quieter options. The Schaabe is a nearly 12-kilometer-long spit of land connecting the Jasmund and Wittow peninsulas, offering expansive, natural beaches. The Mönchgut peninsula in the southeast also has numerous smaller, more tranquil coves and natural beaches (Naturstrände) between its fishing villages, which are ideal for those seeking peace and nature.
