Westerdeichstrich Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Westerdeichstrich, a unique coastal destination in Germany's Schleswig-Holstein state, offering a peaceful retreat on the North Sea. This area is an ideal choice for visitors seeking a quiet, nature-focused holiday, and it is particularly well-suited for families. Unlike typical beach resorts, Westerdeichstrich is famous for its 'green beach,' a well-maintained grassy dike where you can relax and enjoy the sea air. This provides a distinctive setting for a seaside escape, setting it apart from the bustling energy of nearby towns.

While staying in the area, you have access to some of the region's most notable shorelines. For a truly epic beach day, visit the famous Sankt Peter-Ording Strand, renowned for its immense sandy expanse and iconic stilt houses. If you prefer tranquility, Badestrand Vollerwiek offers a charming and peaceful alternative. Just a short trip away, the neighboring town of Büsum features the Familienlagune Perlebucht, a sandy bay with tide-independent swimming lakes, presenting another popular option for beachgoers.

The beaches in and around Westerdeichstrich cater to a wide variety of preferences, from quiet relaxation to active water sports. At the local green beach, swimming is a unique experience dictated by the rhythm of the sea, possible only during high tide. When the water recedes, the vast Wadden Sea mudflats are revealed, perfect for guided walks. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems this region has to offer, from hidden spots to family favorites, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Westerdeichstrich a good choice for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Westerdeichstrich is considered a very family-friendly and child-oriented resort. It offers a quieter, more rural alternative to the busier nearby town of Büsum. The area features playgrounds, opportunities for cycling on flat terrain, and calm activities like guided mudflat walks, making it ideal for families seeking a relaxed natural environment.

What is the beach in Westerdeichstrich actually like? Is it sandy?

The beach at Westerdeichstrich is a 'green beach' (Grasstrand), which is typical for this part of the North Sea coast. Instead of sand, you'll find a well-kept grassy dike area where you can sunbathe, often in a rented beach chair ('Strandkorb'). There are steps leading down into the Wadden Sea for swimming at high tide.

Can you actually swim at the beach in Westerdeichstrich with the tides?

Yes, you can swim in Westerdeichstrich, but it is entirely dependent on the tides. Swimming is only possible during high tide when the water comes right up to the dike. At low tide, the water recedes, exposing the vast Wadden Sea mudflats, which are perfect for guided mudflat walking ('Wattwanderung'). It's essential to check the local tide schedule to plan any swimming.

Do I have to pay to use the beach in Westerdeichstrich?

Yes, access to the beach requires payment of a visitor's tax, known as the 'Kurtaxe' or 'Gästekarte'. This fee helps maintain the tourist infrastructure, including beach cleaning, public restrooms, and DLRG (lifeguard) services. The guest card also provides benefits like free beach access in the nearby town of Büsum and use of its local transport.

Should I stay in Westerdeichstrich or Büsum?

Choose Westerdeichstrich if you prefer a quieter, more rural, and nature-focused holiday away from large crowds. Opt for Büsum if you want a livelier atmosphere with more shops, restaurants, a bustling harbor, and the 'Familienlagune Perlebucht', which offers a sandy beach and tide-independent swimming pools. Westerdeichstrich is only about 3-4 km from Büsum, so it's easy to stay in one and visit the other.

Are dogs allowed on the beach in Westerdeichstrich?

Yes, Westerdeichstrich is dog-friendly. The beach has dedicated sections for visitors with dogs, so your pet can join you. These dog-friendly areas are available in both the main textile beach area and the nudist section. Many holiday accommodations in the area also welcome pets.

What are the famous stilt houses on the beach?

The iconic stilt houses ('Pfahlbauten') are not actually in Westerdeichstrich but are a famous feature of the nearby beach at St. Peter-Ording. While Westerdeichstrich has its own charm with the green dike and windmills, the distinctive restaurants and lifeguard stations built on high stilts above the sand are characteristic of St. Peter-Ording, which is a popular day trip destination from the area.

St. Peter-Ording Strand

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

The main season for a beach holiday is from May to September, when the weather is warmest and all tourist facilities, including beach chair rentals and cafes, are fully operational. However, the North Sea coast has a unique charm in the off-season for those who enjoy brisk walks, quiet scenery, and the dramatic coastal atmosphere.

Is there parking available at the beach?

Yes, there is parking available for visitors near the beach area in the hamlet of Stinteck, which is the main beach access point for Westerdeichstrich. Many holiday apartments and accommodations in the area also offer private parking spaces for their guests.

Besides the beach, what else is there to do in Westerdeichstrich?

Westerdeichstrich is known for its rural landscape, making it ideal for activities like cycling and hiking along the dike and through the flat countryside. You can also take guided mudflat walks into the Wadden Sea National Park, go horseback riding, or visit the historic 'Margaretha' windmill, which houses a restaurant. The nearby town of Büsum offers many more attractions, including a harbor, an adventure pool, and the Phänomania science center.