This coastal town in northern Germany draws visitors to its annual kite festival and long stretches of North Sea beaches. The active harbor and local cafes reflect its maritime culture.
Cuxhaven lies where the Elbe River meets the North Sea. Walk across the exposed seabed to Neuwerk Island during low tide, climb the 30-meter Kugelbake wooden navigation tower, or watch container ships glide past from the Alte Liebe viewing platform. The town's sandy beaches stretch along the western coast, with rows of white-and-blue striped beach chairs sheltering visitors from the North Sea winds.
Walking the Wadden Sea Floor
When the tide recedes twice daily, up to 20 kilometers of seabed emerge from the water. You can walk across these mudflats to Neuwerk Island with a guide, or ride in a horse-drawn wattwagen carriage. Always join an organized tour - the incoming tides move quickly and can trap inexperienced walkers.
Exploring the Maritime Quarter
From the Alte Liebe viewing platform, you'll see massive container ships and cruise vessels navigating the Elbe River. Listen to the loudspeaker system announcing each ship's name and origin. The Kugelbake, a wooden landmark built in 1703, stands at the point where the Elbe meets the North Sea, helping ships navigate the channel for over three centuries.
Beaches and Seaside Activities
The Duhnen and Döse beaches line the western coast. These wide sandy stretches include zones for swimming, surfing, and walking dogs. Walk the beach promenade between seaside neighborhoods to find cafes, ice cream shops, and fish restaurants. Rent a Strandkorb - a covered beach chair - to shield yourself from the strong North Sea winds.
Maritime History at Museums
Inside two former fish processing halls, the Windstärke 10 museum shows you life aboard fishing vessels through hands-on exhibits. Step into a ship's bridge simulator, examine original fishing equipment, and learn about marine conservation efforts. Historical photographs throughout the museum document the daily work of local fishermen across different decades.
Getting Around Cuxhaven
Trains run from the central station to Hamburg (2 hours) and Bremen (1 hour). Bike paths connect all major parts of town, making cycling an effective way to explore. Local buses connect main attractions but run infrequently. You can walk between the town center and beach areas in 15-30 minutes.
Weather and Seasonal Activities
North Sea weather brings summer temperatures around 20°C (68°F), perfect for beach activities and mudflat hiking. The constant winds attract windsurfers and kite enthusiasts year-round. Winter temperatures drop to 5°C (41°F), when visitors come for thalassotherapy treatments at the spa centers or watch winter storms from heated indoor viewpoints.
