Do I have to pay to use the beach in Timmendorfer Strand?
Yes, to access the beach in Timmendorfer Strand, you are required to pay a 'Kurtaxe' or tourist tax. This fee is paid when you check into your accommodation, and you will receive an 'Ostseecard' (Baltic Sea Card). This card serves as your beach ticket and also offers various discounts in the region. Day visitors can purchase their beach access at the designated machines or tourist information centers.
Can you swim in the Baltic Sea at Timmendorfer Strand? What is the water like?
Yes, you can definitely swim at Timmendorfer Strand. The beach has fine, soft sand and the water deepens gradually, making it suitable for families. The water quality is generally excellent. However, the Baltic Sea is not as warm as the Mediterranean; summer water temperatures typically range from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F). Be aware that jellyfish, including fire jellyfish, can occasionally appear, especially with certain wind conditions.
What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Timmendorfer Strand?
The best time for a classic beach holiday with swimming and sunbathing is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this period, you can expect the warmest weather, with air temperatures around 21°C (70°F), and the highest water temperatures. However, spring and autumn are ideal for long walks on the beach, cycling, and enjoying the resort with fewer crowds.
Is Timmendorfer Strand or Scharbeutz better for a holiday?
Both Timmendorfer Strand and Scharbeutz are popular resorts in the Bay of Lübeck with beautiful sandy beaches. Timmendorfer Strand is often described as more upscale and lively, with a wider range of exclusive shops, restaurants, and events. Scharbeutz is perceived as more modern, relaxed, and family-oriented, with a focus on a casual beach lifestyle. The choice depends on your preferred atmosphere, as the beaches themselves are quite similar and are connected by a promenade.
Are there hotels located directly on the beach?
While there are many hotels with direct sea views, very few are situated literally on the sand. Most beachfront hotels are located along the Strandallee, the road and promenade that run parallel to the beach. These hotels offer immediate access to the beach, often just a few steps across the promenade.
Do I need to rent a 'Strandkorb' (beach chair)?
While not mandatory, renting a 'Strandkorb' (a roofed wicker beach chair) is a quintessential part of the German beach experience. It provides a private space, protection from the sun and wind, and a comfortable place to relax. You can rent them for a day or longer directly from vendors at various beach sections. On busy summer days, it's a good idea to rent one in advance if possible.
Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Timmendorfer Strand?
Dogs are welcome at designated dog beaches. In Timmendorfer Strand, the main dog beach is located at beach access point 1. In the neighboring village of Niendorf, there is another dog beach. During the off-season, from October 1st to March 31st, dogs are permitted on all beaches.
Is Timmendorfer Strand a good destination for families?
Yes, Timmendorfer Strand is very family-friendly. The main beach has fine sand and shallow water, which is great for children. There are also playgrounds along the promenade. Nearby attractions like the SEA LIFE aquarium, the Vogelpark Niendorf (bird park), and the proximity to the Hansa-Park amusement park make it an excellent base for a family holiday.
What's the vibe in Timmendorfer Strand? Is it a party destination?
Timmendorfer Strand is known for its sophisticated and lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere. It's more of an upscale resort than a wild party destination. You'll find chic beach bars, quality restaurants, and events like beach polo and concerts. While it has a vibrant nightlife, it caters more to a crowd that enjoys cocktails and live music rather than all-night clubbing.
Where is the best place to park to get to the beach?
There are several large car parks (Großparkplätze) such as P1, P2, and P3, which are a short walk from the beach and town center. Parking here is often more affordable for longer stays. Closer to the beach and promenade, parking is available but is typically more expensive and has time limits. Following the local parking guidance system ('Parkleitsystem') will help you find available spots.
Are there any nudist (FKK) beaches in Timmendorfer Strand?
Yes, there is a designated nudist beach section (FKK-Strand). It is located at the northern end of Timmendorfer Strand, at beach access point 1, near the border with Scharbeutz. This area is clearly marked for those who wish to sunbathe nude.
What is there to do in the evening besides going to restaurants?
In the evenings, you can enjoy a stroll along the illuminated promenade and the famous Maritim Seebrücke. Many beach lounges and bars offer cocktails with a sea view and often have live music. The town also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals, especially during the summer months.
How do you get to the beach from the main town and hotels?
Timmendorfer Strand is a very walkable town. Most central hotels, holiday apartments, and the main shopping street are located directly on or just a few streets behind the beach promenade. You can easily reach the sand in 5-10 minutes on foot from almost anywhere in the central resort area.
Are there any quieter, less crowded beach areas?
Yes, for a quieter experience, you can head towards the beach area in the neighboring district of Niendorf. The beach here is often more tranquil than the central sections of Timmendorfer Strand. Another option is to walk north towards Scharbeutz, where you can also find more relaxed spots between the two main resorts.
Is there anything to do if the weather is bad?
Yes, if you get a rainy day, you can visit the SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand aquarium, which is located right on the promenade. Another popular option is the Ostsee-Therme, a large spa and water park complex situated between Timmendorfer Strand and Scharbeutz, offering pools, slides, and saunas.
