Schleswig-Holstein, Germany

Sagard Beaches

Overview

While Sagard itself is a quiet inland town on Germany's largest island, Rügen, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the Baltic Sea's stunning coastline. The island is famous for its diverse beaches, and from Sagard, you are only a short drive from some of the best. The nearest is the Schaabe, a seemingly endless stretch of natural sand between Glowe and Juliusruh, perfect for long walks and a refreshing swim in the sea. This proximity offers visitors a peaceful retreat with easy access to the vibrant seaside life Rügen is known for.

Rügen's coastline offers a remarkable variety of beach experiences. For the classic German resort atmosphere, head to Binz, the island's largest and most famous resort, known for its five-kilometer-long sandy beach and elegant promenade. Nearby, Sellin captures hearts with its magnificent and highly photogenic pier, a true island icon. In contrast, Prora presents a unique combination of a beautiful beach with the monumental Nazi-era 'Colossus' complex lining its shore, while Strand am Königsstuhl offers dramatic scenery where dense forests meet the island's famous white chalk cliffs.

Beyond the main attractions, the island holds quieter spots for those seeking tranquility. On the Mönchgut peninsula, Südstrand Thiessow is a peaceful, natural beach that feels like a hidden gem away from the summer crowds. Whether you crave the lively promenades of the grand resorts or the wild, windswept beauty of a more secluded shore, Rügen delivers. For more inspiration, be sure to explore our complete guide to the island's many other beaches.

FAQ

Is Sagard a beach town? How far is it to the nearest beach?

Sagard is not a coastal town itself, but an inland municipality on the Jasmund peninsula of Rügen. The nearest and most popular beach is the 'Schaabe', a nearly 12-kilometer-long sandy beach that is about a 10-15 minute drive away, located between Glowe and Juliusruh.

How do I get to the beach from Sagard? Do I need a car?

The most convenient way to reach the beaches from Sagard is by car, which takes about 10-15 minutes to get to the Schaabe. There are several paid parking lots along the main road behind the dunes. While public transport options exist, having a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the different beach sections and other parts of the island.

Can you actually swim in the sea on Rügen? What is the water temperature like?

Yes, you can swim in the Baltic Sea at Rügen's beaches. The water is refreshing, with summer temperatures from June to September averaging around 17-19°C (63-66°F). On particularly warm and sunny days in July and August, the water in shallow bays can reach up to 24°C (75°F).

What's the difference between the Schaabe beach and the beaches in Binz or Sellin?

The Schaabe, near Sagard, is a long, natural beach backed by forest and dunes, with fewer services, offering a quieter, more 'wild' experience. The beaches at the famous resorts of Binz and Sellin are known for their fine white sand, iconic piers ('Seebrücken'), bustling promenades with shops and restaurants, and the availability of rental beach chairs ('Strandkörbe'). They offer a classic seaside resort atmosphere.

Are the beaches on Rügen good for families with children?

Yes, many beaches on Rügen are very family-friendly. The Schaabe beach near Sagard, for example, has fine sand and very shallow water, making it safe for children to play and paddle. The main resort beaches in places like Binz and Göhren also have calm waters, lifeguards, and nearby amenities like playgrounds and ice cream shops.

When is the best time for a beach holiday on Rügen?

The best time for a classic beach and swimming holiday is during the summer months of June, July, and August, when air and water temperatures are at their warmest. May and September also offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, making them ideal for long beach walks and enjoying the scenery, though the water will be cooler.

What is the 'Kurtaxe' and do I have to pay it to use the beaches?

The 'Kurtaxe' is a local tourist or resort tax that visitors are required to pay in most of Rügen's seaside communities. The funds are used to maintain tourist infrastructure, including beach cleaning, lifeguard services, public restrooms, and promenades. While staying in a resort town, you will pay it with your accommodation, and your guest card ('Kurkarte') serves as proof of payment for beach access.

Are there nudist (FKK) beaches on Rügen?

Yes, nudism, known as FKK (Freikörperkultur), is very common on Rügen and a part of the local beach culture. Most major beaches, including the Schaabe near Sagard and the beaches at Binz and Sellin, have clearly marked FKK sections alongside the main textile beach areas.

People Also Ask

Can I bring my dog to the beaches near Sagard?

Yes, Rügen is generally dog-friendly, but there are specific rules. Dogs are only allowed on designated dog beaches ('Hundestrände') during the main season (typically May to September). Outside of the main season, rules are often more relaxed. The Schaabe and most other large beaches have well-marked sections for visitors with dogs.

What are those wicker beach chairs ('Strandkörbe') and do I need to rent one?

The iconic wicker beach chair is called a 'Strandkorb'. It offers comfortable seating and protection from the sun and wind, which can be quite strong on the Baltic coast. While not mandatory, renting one for the day is highly recommended for comfort. They are available for rent at most major beaches like those in Binz, Sellin, and Glowe, but are less common on purely natural stretches of the Schaabe.

Is it better to stay in a beach town like Binz or a quieter town like Sagard?

This depends on your travel style. Staying in Binz or Sellin puts you directly on the beach with promenades, restaurants, and shops at your doorstep, but it's also busier and more expensive. Staying in an inland town like Sagard offers a quieter, often more affordable base, ideal for travelers with a car who want to explore the entire Jasmund peninsula, including the beaches and the national park.

Are there any beaches at the famous chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park?

Yes, there is a beach at the base of the chalk cliffs, but it's not a typical sunbathing beach. The shoreline is very stony and rugged, covered in flint stones and fossils. It's accessible via a steep staircase and is popular for hiking and fossil hunting, offering dramatic views of the cliffs from below, rather than for swimming or relaxing on the sand.

Is there parking at the beaches and is it free?

Parking is available at access points to most popular beaches, including the Schaabe. However, it is almost always fee-based, especially during the high season. The lots are typically 'Waldparkplätze' (forest parking lots) set just behind the dunes. Trying to park for free along the main road is often prohibited and can result in fines.

What is there to do near Sagard if the weather is bad for the beach?

If the weather is not suitable for the beach, there are several nearby alternatives. You can visit the Jasmund National Park and the Königsstuhl visitor center, explore the port town of Sassnitz, or visit the Jasmund Therme, a spa and water park located right in Neddesitz, a part of Sagard.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Sagard: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today might be an average beach day in Sagard. The maximum air temperature will be 21 °C. Expect mostly cloudy skies. The sea temperature is 20.8 °C with low waves. The wind might be noticeable at times. The UV index will reach 6.
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Air

Low / High17.1°C/21°C
Feels Like (High)20.6°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature20.8 °C
Wave Height0.2 m
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Rain

Rain Chance3%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:07/21:17
Sunshine Hours8.2 hrs
UV Index6.05
Cloud Cover80%
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Wind

Speed20.8 km/h
Gusts32.4 km/h
DirectionW

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