Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany

Tating Beaches

Overview

While the charming village of Tating offers a peaceful, rural retreat, it is not located directly on the sea. Instead, it serves as a perfect, quiet home base for exploring the magnificent North Sea beaches of St. Peter-Ording, just a short drive away. This proximity allows visitors to enjoy a tranquil village atmosphere while having easy access to one of Germany's most famous coastal destinations, known for its immense, tide-swept sands and iconic stilt house restaurants.

The beaches of St. Peter-Ording cater to every type of visitor and are divided into distinct sections. For ultimate convenience, the renowned St. Peter-Ording Strand offers the unique experience of driving your car directly onto the sand to find the perfect spot. Families with young children will find the perfect setting at Böhler Strand, where the water is exceptionally shallow and calm. Meanwhile, Strand Ording is the vibrant heart of the area, a premier hub for watersports and international events like the Kitesurf World Cup.

For those seeking a quieter day by the water, Südstrand is a favorite escape for locals, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for peaceful walks. A truly different coastal experience can be found at Badestrand Vollerwiek, a charming 'green beach' on the dike that provides a genuine break from the main sandy stretches. These are just a few of the highlights you can discover along this dynamic coastline; see our full guide for a longer list of beaches and to find the one that's right for you.

FAQ

Does Tating have its own beach?

No, the village of Tating is not located directly on the sea and does not have its own beach. It is situated a few kilometers inland on the Eiderstedt peninsula. The famous, vast sandy beaches of St. Peter-Ording are the primary beaches for visitors staying in Tating, typically a 10-15 minute drive away.

How far is it from Tating to the beach in St. Peter-Ording?

The distance from the center of Tating to the various beach sections of St. Peter-Ording (like Böhl, Dorf, Bad, or Ording) is approximately 8 to 12 kilometers (about 5 to 7.5 miles). You can easily travel between them by car, bus, or bicycle, with many visitors enjoying the scenic bike paths.

What's the advantage of staying in Tating over St. Peter-Ording?

Travelers often choose Tating for its quieter, more rural village atmosphere, which provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling resort town of St. Peter-Ording. Accommodation, particularly holiday homes (Ferienwohnungen), can often be more affordable in Tating. It's ideal for those who have a car or enjoy cycling and prefer a tranquil base to return to after a day at the busy beach.

Can you swim in the sea at St. Peter-Ording and what are the tides like?

Yes, you can swim at St. Peter-Ording, but the experience is heavily influenced by the North Sea tides. At high tide, you can swim in the sea. At low tide, the water recedes hundreds of meters, exposing the vast Wadden Sea floor, which is perfect for mudflat walking ('Wattwandern'). The water is generally shallow, especially in the Böhl section, making it suitable for paddling.

When is the best time for a beach holiday in Tating?

The best time for a classic beach and swimming holiday is during the summer months of July and August, when water temperatures are at their warmest, potentially reaching 19-20°C (66-68°F). However, spring and autumn are also popular for long walks, kite-flying, and enjoying the dramatic coastal landscapes with fewer crowds.

Can I drive my car onto the beach at St. Peter-Ording?

Yes, one of the unique features of St. Peter-Ording is that you can drive and park your car directly on designated sections of the beach, specifically in Ording and Böhl. This is typically allowed from mid-March to the end of October, and a daily parking fee is charged which often includes the visitor's tax.

Are the beaches near Tating good for families?

Yes, the beaches of St. Peter-Ording are very family-friendly. The immense sandy expanse provides plenty of space to play. The Böhl section is particularly recommended for families with small children because the beach slopes very gently and the water is extremely shallow. Additionally, every beach section has playgrounds, restaurants, and toilet facilities.

Do I have to pay a visitor's tax (Kurtaxe) if I stay in Tating?

While Tating itself does not charge a visitor's tax, you will need to pay it to access the beaches in St. Peter-Ording. If you are a day visitor, you can buy a guest card ('Gästekarte') at the beach entrances. If you drive onto the beach to park, the fee is often included in the parking ticket. This tax helps maintain the beaches, promenades, and safety services.

People Also Ask

Are dogs allowed on the beaches at St. Peter-Ording?

Yes, St. Peter-Ording is very dog-friendly. There are specially designated dog beach areas ('Hundestrände') in the Bad and Ording sections where dogs are welcome. These areas include large, fenced-in exercise zones where dogs can run off-leash. In other beach areas, dogs must typically be kept on a leash.

Which beach section in St. Peter-Ording is right for me?

It depends on your preference. Ording is the largest and most active section, popular for watersports and events. Bad is the central hub with a long pier and proximity to the spa. Böhl is quieter with very shallow water, ideal for families. Dorf/Süd is the most tranquil section, great for nature lovers and mudflat walks.

What is there to do on the beach besides sunbathing?

The beaches of St. Peter-Ording are a hub for activities. Due to the reliable wind, it's a top European destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing. You can also try sand yachting and kite buggying. At low tide, guided mudflat walks ('Wattwanderungen') in the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea are a unique experience.

Are there quieter beach alternatives to St. Peter-Ording?

Yes, for a different, more tranquil experience, you can visit the 'green beach' at Badestrand Vollerwiek. Unlike the vast sandy beaches of SPO, this is a grassy area directly on the dike where you can set up chairs and access the Wadden Sea via steps. It's a quieter, more local spot for enjoying the sea.

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Germany
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Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Beaches