This small Danish island in the Wadden Sea has long beaches for seal watching and wind sports. Locals maintain traditions like the Sønderho folk dance and oyster gathering.
Fanø stretches 16 kilometers along Denmark's Wadden Sea. Walk on white sand beaches where seals bask on nearby sandbanks, or watch kite surfers glide across the waves. In the villages of Nordby and Sønderho, 18th-century sailors' houses line narrow streets, their distinctive west-east orientation protecting them from sea winds. The island's dunes and beaches create perfect conditions for wind sports, while its location in the Wadden Sea makes it an important stop for migrating birds.
Getting to Fanø by Ferry
The ferry from Esbjerg to Nordby runs every 20 minutes and takes just 12 minutes to cross. Three ferries operate on this route: the diesel-powered Fenja and Menja, and the new electric ferry Grotte. Look for the dragons and green lines decorating Grotte - they represent the island's connection to wind power. The moment you step aboard, you'll feel the calm atmosphere that defines Fanø.
Beaches and Water Activities
A single 15-kilometer beach runs along Fanø's western shore. Head to the stretch between Fanø Bad and Rindby Strand for the widest sandy area, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. South of Rindby, you'll find designated areas for kite surfing and beach sailing. The beach has no stones or rocks, making it safe for children to play, though remember to watch the North Sea's strong currents while swimming.
Wildlife Watching in the Wadden Sea
At Galgerevet, you can spot hundreds of spotted seals and gray seals resting on sandbanks. Throughout the year, different species of birds stop here during their migration routes. Join a guided seal safari to get within viewing distance of the seals while learning about their daily patterns and the local ecosystem.
Cycling Around the Island
Rent a bike and explore Fanø on its network of cycling paths. The flat terrain makes cycling easy, and you can reach most points of interest within a day. Bike rental shops operate in both Nordby and Sønderho, with routes connecting beaches, nature areas, and villages.
Maritime Villages
Nordby and Sønderho grew wealthy from sailing trade in the 1700s and 1800s. Walk through their narrow streets to see preserved captains' houses with thatched roofs, all built facing west to east to shield against strong winds. Visit the Fanø Museum in Nordby to see exhibits of daily island life from the 1800s, including sailors' equipment and traditional costumes.
World War II History
About 300 concrete bunkers still stand along Fanø's coastline, built as part of the Atlantic Wall during World War II. These structures have become part of the beach landscape, and you can walk around or inside many of them.
