This Baltic Sea resort town has a 6-kilometer golden sand beach with wicker chairs, water sports, and wellness centers. Visitors can explore marine life at the Sea Life Centre.
Timmendorfer Strand, a coastal town on Germany's Baltic Sea, has been a popular destination for German vacationers since the early 19th century. You can lounge in traditional wicker chairs on its 6-kilometer golden sand beach, try snorkeling at the Sports Beach Club, or watch marine life at the Sea Life Centre. The town also offers wellness centers for relaxation and beachfront restaurants for dining with a view of the Baltic.
6-Kilometer Stretch of Baltic Beach
Timmendorfer Strand's main attraction is its long beach along the Baltic Sea. Thousands of wicker beach chairs line the 6 kilometers of fine sand, providing comfortable spots for sunbathing. The clean, blue waters vary in shade and are suitable for swimming. With its low tidal range and salty sea climate, the beach is popular among families and individuals seeking water-based activities.
Water Sports and Beach Activities
At Timmendorfer Strand, you can engage in many active pursuits. The Sports Beach Club, which opens in May, has facilities for snorkeling, diving, and beach volleyball. You can watch professional beach volleyball tournaments at the dedicated Beach Volleyball Stadium or try beach polo. During summer months, you can join yoga, zumba, or Qi-Gong sessions on the beach.
Wellness and Spa Experiences
Timmendorfer Strand's history as a spa destination dates back to the 19th century when German nobility discovered its health benefits. Today, you'll find several wellness centers and spa hotels in the town. For example, the Strandhotel Fontana has a modern spa with views of the Baltic coast, where you can enjoy various treatments and therapies.
Sea Life Centre and Wildlife Park
At the Sea Life Centre, you can observe sharks, otters, and other marine life up close. It includes touch-pools and an artificial rainforest area, making it a good choice for families with children. Near the town, a wildlife park houses over 1,300 exotic birds, including a collection of owls that's considered one of the most varied in the world.
Shopping and Dining
Along the promenade, you'll find 2,000 meters of shopping malls offering a variety of goods. After shopping, you can choose from many restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisine. If you visit during spring, you might catch one of the Beach Dining events, where you can enjoy meals right on the sand.
How to Get There
The closest international airport is Lübeck Blankensee Airport. From there, you can reach Timmendorfer Strand by car in about 30 minutes via the A20 or A1 highways. A 15-minute train ride or a 45-minute bus journey are also options. If you're traveling from within Germany, take a train from Hamburg Central to Lübeck, then change for Timmendorfer Strand. This journey typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Best Time to Visit
Your ideal time to visit Timmendorfer Strand depends on your interests. For beach activities and warmer weather, plan your trip between May and August. The Sports Beach Club opens in mid-May, offering a full range of water sports and beach activities. If you prefer spa treatments and a calmer atmosphere, consider visiting during spring or autumn.
