Puttgarden Beaches

Overview

Located on Germany’s sunny Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn, the area around Puttgarden offers a wonderfully diverse beach holiday. Visitors will find a coastline that answers every preference, from wide, fine-sand beaches to wild, natural stretches of pebbles and stone. The Baltic Sea here is clear and very suitable for swimming during the warmer summer months, with many beaches offering the gentle, shallow entry points that make the island a popular choice for a family getaway.

This variety is showcased in our editor’s picks. For a classic day of sun and sand, the expansive and popular Südstrand is the island's most famous destination. In contrast, Strand Grüner Brink is a paradise for watersports, known as one of Germany's top spots for kitesurfing thanks to its shallow waters and ideal wind conditions. For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, the gentle cliffs and bordering forest of Strand Katharinenhof provide a uniquely scenic escape. Meanwhile, Strand Bojendorf offers a quieter, more natural setting that is also great for families.

Beyond these highlights, Fehmarn's 78-kilometer coastline is dotted with numerous other beaches waiting to be discovered. Whether you are looking for the lively atmosphere of a main beach or the peaceful solitude of a remote natural cove, the island has a perfect spot for every taste. From family-friendly shores to designated nudist areas, the options are plentiful. Be sure to explore our full guide to find the ideal beach for your visit to this charming German island.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Puttgarden a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Puttgarden and the surrounding Fehmarn island are well-suited for a family beach holiday. Many beaches feature gentle slopes into the water and sandbanks, making them safe for children. For instance, Grüner Brink beach has shallow water areas ideal for kids. Several beaches are supervised by lifeguards (DLRG), and you can often find amenities like playgrounds and snack bars nearby. Accommodations in the area frequently cater to families, offering family-friendly services and activities.

Strand Grüner Brink

Can you swim in the sea at Puttgarden, and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the Baltic Sea at Puttgarden. The water temperature is warmest during the summer months of June to August. In July, the water temperature can be comfortable for swimming, sometimes reaching over 20°C. However, the swimming season is short. Some beaches are sandy, while others are stony or a mix of both, so bringing bathing shoes is often recommended. The water at many beaches is clear and shallow near the shore.

What is the best time of year to visit Puttgarden for a beach trip?

The ideal time for a beach holiday in Puttgarden is during the summer, from June to August. During these months, the weather is warmest and most pleasant for swimming and other beach activities. This period also sees the highest water temperatures. While spring and autumn can be beautiful for walks and observing nature, the water will likely be too cold for swimming.

Are there any nudist (FKK) beaches near Puttgarden?

Yes, there are designated nudist beaches, known as FKK beaches, on the island of Fehmarn near Puttgarden. For example, a section of the Grüner Brink beach is a designated FKK nudist area. In Germany, nudism (Freikörperkultur) is common in specified zones, which are clearly marked. It's important to respect these boundaries.

Strand Grüner Brink

Can I find accommodation right on the beach in Puttgarden?

While Puttgarden itself is known for its ferry port, you can find holiday apartments and campsites located very close to the beaches on the island of Fehmarn, often just behind the dike. For example, Camping Puttgarden is located right by the sea, and there are holiday homes within walking distance of beaches like Grüner Brink. Many hotels are a short drive or bike ride away.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Strand Grüner Brink

Do I have to pay a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) to use the beaches?

Yes, for many of the official bathing beaches on Fehmarn, including those near Puttgarden like Grüner Brink, a tourist tax (Kurtaxe) is required. You will need a valid 'Ostseecard' or you can purchase a day ticket from machines at the beach. This fee contributes to the maintenance and safety of the beach facilities.

Strand Grüner Brink

Are the beaches near Puttgarden sandy or stony?

The beaches on Fehmarn island vary. You can find fine sandy beaches like Südstrand, but many are natural beaches with a mix of sand and pebbles, or are primarily stone beaches like Steinstrand Gahlendorf. For the more stony beaches, it is advisable to wear bathing shoes, especially for children.

Südstrand

Steinstrand Gahlendorf

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in the Puttgarden area?

Yes, there are specific dog-friendly beaches on Fehmarn. For example, Grüner Brink has a designated section for dogs. It's important to look for the signs indicating where dogs are permitted, as they are not allowed on all beach sections. In some nature reserves, dogs must be kept on a leash.

Strand Grüner Brink

People Also Ask

How do you get to the beaches from Puttgarden?

Most beaches are a short drive from Puttgarden. Some, like Grüner Brink, have free parking available. Fehmarn is also very bike-friendly, with beautiful cycle tracks along the dunes and dikes leading to the beaches. For some natural beaches without dedicated parking, arriving by bike is the best option.

Strand Grüner Brink

Is Puttgarden a good destination for watersports like kitesurfing?

Yes, the area around Puttgarden is excellent for watersports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing. The Grüner Brink beach is a particularly popular spot due to the wind conditions. It offers a large area of shallow water with few waves, making it ideal for beginners, and is considered one of the best freestyle areas in Northern Germany.

Strand Grüner Brink

Are there quiet, natural beaches or are they all busy with tourists?

You can find both. While some main beaches with full amenities can be busy, especially in high season, Fehmarn also offers many quiet, natural beaches. Beaches like Marienleuchte or Strand Presen have little to no tourist infrastructure, offering peace and tranquility. These are often pebble beaches, perfect for nature lovers and those looking to relax away from the crowds.

What's the difference between the beaches near Puttgarden and those in Großenbrode?

Beaches near Puttgarden, on the island of Fehmarn, are very diverse, ranging from the surf-haven of Grüner Brink to quiet, natural pebble beaches. Großenbrode, on the mainland, also has popular beaches like Südstrand Großenbrode, known for being picturesque and tranquil. Its Weststrand is noted as a less crowded alternative for surfers. The choice may depend on whether you prefer the island atmosphere of Fehmarn or the mainland.

Strand Grüner Brink