Rankwitz Beaches

Overview

Rankwitz offers a very different beach experience from the bustling resorts on Germany's Baltic Sea coast. Located on the island of Usedom, the village sits on the quiet backwaters known as the Achterwasser, not the open sea. This means that instead of vast stretches of sand, you will find small, natural bathing spots with calm, shallow water. It is the perfect destination for visitors seeking a peaceful, nature-oriented holiday, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds found at the more famous seaside towns.

For those dreaming of wide, sandy shores and classic seaside promenades, the island's renowned Baltic beaches are just a short drive away. The most famous are the 'Kaiserbäder' or Imperial Spas, which include Ahlbeck, home to Germany's oldest pier, and the elegant Strand Heringsdorf. These beaches are known for their grandeur and historic pier architecture. For a more rugged and natural coastline, Strand Ückeritz combines fine sand with a dramatic backdrop of forests and steep cliffs, offering a different but equally stunning landscape.

Beyond the imperial spas, the lively resort of Zinnowitz provides a classic holiday feel in a more relaxed atmosphere. Nearby Bansin, the smallest of the three imperial spas, also charms visitors with its elegant villas and beautiful beachfront. These are just a few of the highlights available on Usedom, and our comprehensive guide features a longer list of beaches to help you find the perfect spot. Whether you prefer a secluded cove on the backwaters or a grand promenade on the Baltic, the region caters to every preference.

Top Beaches

Badestelle Rankwitz

This is the most convenient beach, located right in town on the calm Achterwasser lagoon, perfect for a quick and easy swim. As a natural bathing spot, it offers a peaceful, grassy sunbathing area that gently slopes into the water. The shallow and protected lagoon waters are often warmer than the open Baltic Sea, providing a serene alternative to the bustling seaside resorts elsewhere on the island. Situated near the charming Rankwitz harbor, the beach embodies the quiet, fishing-village character of this part of Usedom. It's a place that invites you to relax and enjoy the unspoiled nature of the backwaters.

FAQ

Are there sandy beaches in Rankwitz?

Rankwitz is not located on the open Baltic Sea, but on the quieter backwaters known as the Peenestrom and Achterwasser. Instead of long, wide sandy beaches, you will find several small, natural bathing spots (Badestellen). These are often more secluded and have calm, shallow water, but they are not the expansive sandy beaches found in Usedom's main seaside resorts.

Is Rankwitz a good destination for a classic beach holiday?

Rankwitz is ideal for a quiet, nature-oriented holiday focused on relaxation, cycling, and boating rather than a classic, bustling beach holiday. If your priority is wide sandy beaches, seaside promenades, and piers, the larger Usedom resorts like Ahlbeck or Heringsdorf would be a better fit. Rankwitz offers a more tranquil, village-like atmosphere centered around its idyllic harbor.

Ahlbeck

Strand Heringsdorf

How does Rankwitz compare to the main Usedom resorts like Ahlbeck or Heringsdorf?

Rankwitz offers a completely different experience. It is a quiet, rural village on the Achterwasser, known for its harbor, fishing, and natural surroundings. The 'Kaiserbäder' (Imperial Spas) like Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin are on the Baltic Sea coast and feature grand piers, long sandy beaches, bustling promenades, and more tourist infrastructure. Rankwitz is for escaping the crowds, while the Kaiserbäder are the main tourist hubs.

Ahlbeck

Strand Heringsdorf

Bansin

Can you swim in the water near Rankwitz?

Yes, swimming is possible at the designated small bathing areas along the Peenestrom and Achterwasser. The water here is generally much calmer than the open Baltic Sea and often has a gentle slope, making it particularly suitable for families with children. The water is not the salty sea, but rather brackish water.

What kind of holiday accommodation is typical for Rankwitz?

The area is dominated by private holiday homes (Ferienhäuser) and apartments (Ferienwohnungen), many of which are in traditional houses with thatched roofs. These rentals often include gardens and provide a quiet, private base for exploring the region. You will find fewer large hotels here compared to the main coastal resorts.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the atmosphere like at the Rankwitz harbor?

The harbor is the heart of Rankwitz. It has a charming, maritime atmosphere with fishing boats and private yachts. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors, featuring well-regarded restaurants that serve fresh and smoked fish directly from the on-site smokehouse. The vibe is relaxed and authentic, focused on enjoying the water views and local cuisine.

Is Rankwitz suitable for a holiday with children?

Yes, Rankwitz is very suitable for families who want a peaceful holiday in nature. The calm, shallow waters of the local bathing spots are safer for younger children than the open sea. The area offers plenty of space for children to play and explore, and the quiet roads are ideal for family bike rides away from heavy traffic.

When is the best time to visit Rankwitz for swimming?

The best time for swimming is during the summer months, from June to August, when air and water temperatures are at their warmest. However, the late spring and early autumn months (May, September) are also excellent for visiting, offering pleasant weather for hiking and cycling with fewer tourists.