Thiessow Beaches

Overview

On Germany's largest island, Rügen, the tranquil village of Thiessow offers a peaceful alternative to the island's bustling resort towns. Located on the scenic Mönchgut peninsula, this destination is ideal for visitors seeking relaxation and a connection with nature, far from the grand promenades of the larger seaside resorts. Surrounded by the Baltic Sea on three sides, Thiessow provides a serene escape within the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve, appealing to those who prefer quiet shores over crowded beaches.

Thiessow itself is home to several distinct beaches catering to different tastes. The main beach, often called the Oststrand (East Beach), is a long stretch of fine sand perfect for families and swimming. For those seeking a more rugged, natural setting, the Südstrand (South Beach) offers a stony and secluded coastline. Meanwhile, the Weststrand, facing the calmer Bodden waters, is a renowned hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, making the village a versatile destination for beachgoers of all types.

While Thiessow provides a quiet retreat, the island of Rügen has a beach for every preference. For a classic German seaside experience, the elegant resort of Binz features a famously long pier and grand architecture. Nearby, Sellin is a social media favorite, celebrated for its stunning historic pier and unique diving gondola. Just a short distance away, Göhren also offers beautiful sandy shores. To discover more about these and other coastal gems, be sure to explore our complete guide to the beaches of Rügen.

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FAQ

Is Thiessow a good place for a quiet beach holiday?

Yes, Thiessow is ideal for visitors seeking a quiet and relaxing beach holiday. Unlike the larger, bustling resorts on Rügen such as Binz or Sellin, Thiessow offers a more tranquil atmosphere surrounded by nature. It is located within the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve, making it perfect for those who prefer nature and tranquility over busy promenades.

How does Thiessow compare to Binz or Sellin?

Thiessow is much quieter and more nature-oriented compared to the grand, bustling seaside resorts of Binz and Sellin. While Binz and Sellin are famous for their historic pier, Bäderarchitektur (resort architecture), and lively promenades with many shops and restaurants, Thiessow is a smaller, more tranquil village. It appeals to visitors looking for relaxation, nature walks, and water sports in a less crowded setting.

Sellin

Binz

What are the different beaches in Thiessow like?

Thiessow boasts three distinct beaches. The main beach is the 'Oststrand' (East Beach), a long, fine-sand beach protected from west winds by a coastal forest. It has designated sections for families, nudists (FKK), and dogs, and is supervised by the DLRG (German Life Saving Association). The 'Südstrand' (South Beach) is a more rugged, natural beach with some stony sections, ideal for those seeking solitude. The 'Weststrand' (West Beach) is on the Bodden (lagoon) side and is a popular spot for kite and windsurfers due to its excellent wind conditions.

Südstrand Thiessow

Is Thiessow good for families with children?

Yes, Thiessow is very suitable for families. The main East Beach (Oststrand) has a gentle, flat entry into the water, making it safe for children to splash and play. The beach is also supervised by lifeguards during the main season. The overall calm atmosphere of the village provides a relaxed setting for a family vacation.

Are there holiday apartments (Ferienwohnungen) right on the beach?

While there are no properties built directly on the sand, there are many holiday apartments and houses (Ferienwohnungen) located just behind the dunes and coastal forest, offering very short walks to the beach. Accommodations advertised as 'strandnah' (close to the beach) are typically only 100-200 meters from the sand, providing convenient access.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Can you swim safely in Thiessow and what is the water like?

Yes, swimming is generally safe at the main East Beach (Oststrand), which is supervised by the DLRG in summer. The water entry is shallow and the sand is fine. Water temperatures in the Baltic Sea at Thiessow can reach up to 22-24°C in July and August, though the average is closer to 17-18°C. The water is described as clear and clean. The West and South beaches are unsupervised, so more caution is required there.

Are there FKK (nudist) beaches in Thiessow?

Yes, Thiessow has a designated FKK (Freikörperkultur, or nudist) section. This is located on the main East Beach (Oststrand), alongside the textile and dog beach areas. Nudism is common and well-accepted in designated areas on German Baltic Sea beaches, and Thiessow is a well-known spot for it.

Südstrand Thiessow

Can I bring my dog to the beach in Thiessow?

Yes, Thiessow is dog-friendly. There is a dedicated dog beach (Hundestrand) section located on the main East Beach (Oststrand). Additionally, the natural beaches are often used by dog owners for long walks, especially during the off-season. Note that a local visitor's tax may apply to dogs in some Rügen municipalities.