Staberdorf Beaches

Overview

Staberdorf offers a unique beach experience on Germany's Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn. Unlike typical sandy resorts, this area is defined by its natural, rugged coastline. Visitors will discover that the local beaches are mostly pebbly and backed by dramatic cliffs, perfect for long walks and exploring nature. While you won't find vast stretches of fine sand for building sandcastles, the tranquility and scenic beauty provide a different kind of coastal escape. Your nearest beach, Staberdorfer Strand, is the perfect starting point for this adventure.

While Staberdorf provides a peaceful retreat, the rest of Fehmarn caters to every beach preference, all just a short drive away. For a classic day on the sand with full amenities, Burgtiefe is the island's bustling main hub. Watersports enthusiasts will find their paradise at Strand Grüner Brink, a world-class destination for kitesurfing. For more dramatic scenery, the cliffs at Strand Katharinenhof offer a stunning backdrop, while Strand Meeschendorf is a versatile choice with areas for families and dogs.

The beaches around Staberdorf are ideal for active visitors who enjoy hiking coastal paths and discovering unique stones rather than a traditional swimming holiday. The area's character is about embracing the wild, natural elements of the Baltic Sea. For those interested in exploring beyond these highlights, our comprehensive guide details every type of beach Fehmarn has to offer, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your holiday.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Staberdorf sandy or pebbly?

The beaches around Staberdorf, particularly along the Staberhuk cliff coast, are predominantly natural pebble and stone beaches. While you can find some sandy patches, they are very different from the fine, wide sandy beaches like Südstrand. These natural beaches are known for their large boulders, flintstones, and opportunities for finding fossils like 'Donnerkeile' (belemnites).

Südstrand

Is Staberdorf a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Staberdorf is better suited for families who enjoy nature, tranquility, and adventure over classic sandy beach holidays. The natural, stony beaches are less ideal for toddlers and building sandcastles but offer great opportunities for older children to explore, collect unique stones, and hike along the cliffs. For a traditional sandy beach experience with calm, shallow water, families often prefer the main Südstrand near Burgtiefe, which is a short drive away.

Südstrand

Burgtiefe

Can you swim at the beaches near Staberdorf?

Yes, you can swim at the beaches near Staberdorf, but it's a more rustic experience. The entry into the water is often over pebbles and larger stones, so wearing water shoes is highly recommended. The water is the Baltic Sea, which is refreshing and can reach up to 23°C in high summer but is generally cooler. Unlike the main guarded beaches, the natural beaches here often lack DLRG (lifeguard) supervision.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Staberdorf?

Yes, Fehmarn is very dog-friendly, and the natural beach at Staberhuk is a popular spot where dogs are permitted year-round. There is also a designated dog beach section in the nearby town of Meeschendorf, located east of the main bathing area. However, it's always best to look for local signage and keep dogs on a leash in crowded areas.

Strand Meeschendorf

Are there holiday homes or apartments right on the beach in Staberdorf?

Yes, there are several holiday apartment complexes ('Ferienresidenz') and individual holiday homes ('Ferienhaus') in Staberdorf located just a few steps from the natural beach and cliffside promenade. Many of these offer direct sea views, making it a popular area for those seeking accommodation with immediate access to the coast.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What's the difference between the beaches at Staberdorf and the main Südstrand?

The main difference is character and amenities. Staberdorf's beaches, especially at Staberhuk, are natural, stony, and backed by cliffs, offering peace and a rugged landscape. They have few to no services like beach chair rentals or kiosks. In contrast, Südstrand near Burgtiefe is a wide, fine-sand beach with full tourist infrastructure, including promenades, restaurants, shops, and lifeguard stations, making it much busier.

Südstrand

Are there naturist (FKK) beaches near Staberdorf?

While informal nude sunbathing can occur on quiet, natural beaches like those around Staberdorf, the officially designated FKK (naturist) beaches on Fehmarn are located in Wallnau (on the west coast) and at Wulfener Hals (on the south coast). These official areas provide a more established environment for naturism.

What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Staberdorf?

The best time for a classic beach holiday is during the summer months of June, July, and August, when air temperatures are warmest and the Baltic Sea reaches its most pleasant swimming temperatures. However, the spring and autumn are ideal for visitors who prefer long walks, hiking the cliff paths, and enjoying the tranquil, windy atmosphere without the summer crowds.

People Also Ask

Do I need to pay a 'Kurtaxe' (visitor's tax) for Staberdorf's beaches?

Yes, the 'Kurtaxe' (also called 'ostseecard') is generally required for visitors staying on Fehmarn and provides access to all the island's beaches, including the natural ones near Staberdorf. The fee contributes to the maintenance of beaches, cleaning, and safety services across the island. Your accommodation provider will typically handle the collection of this tax.

How do you get to the beach at Staberhuk and where can you park?

You can drive to the end of the road named 'Staberhuk' in Staberdorf, where you will find a public car park near a military radar station. From the car park, it's a short walk to the clifftop path, with various points where you can descend via paths or stairs to the natural stone beach below.

What is there to do at Staberdorf's beaches besides swimming?

The beaches around Staberdorf are perfect for activities that embrace their natural character. Popular pastimes include hiking along the scenic cliff-top trails towards the Staberhuk lighthouse, searching for fossils and unique stones, bird watching, and angling. The dramatic landscape also makes it a favorite spot for photography.

Are there any beach bars or restaurants directly at the beaches near Staberdorf?

The natural beaches at Staberdorf and Staberhuk are known for their lack of commercial facilities. You will not find beach bars, cafes, or restaurants directly on the shore. For amenities like these, you would need to head to the nearby village of Staberdorf itself or drive to more developed beach areas like Meeschendorf or the Südstrand.

Strand Meeschendorf

Südstrand