On the mainland, sleepy Nordic villages alternate with colorful seaside resorts. The flat coastline is wonderful to explore by bike. On the dykes, you can admire woolly white sheep on one side and the salt marshes populated by birds on the other. In coastal towns such as Büsum, you can get off your bike and stroll through the pedestrian zone in search of the best crab sandwich (our tip: "Kuhlmanns Hafenpick") and the biggest soft ice cream. And to relax, head to one of the many North Sea spas or take a boat trip out to the seal banks.
The Wadden Sea of the North Sea is unique in the world. Only here do the ebb and flow of the tide create a unique biotope that you should definitely explore before it is swallowed up by the water again every six hours. In 2009, the Wadden Sea was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is now doubly protected: The two national parks of Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein also help to preserve the coastal areas. There is no car traffic or large tourist resorts here, instead there is plenty of space to relax. And on walks along the long, fine sandy beaches, you will be spoiled time and again by natural spectacles - such as the spectacular sunsets that bathe everything in a golden red. Because there is so much to discover here, a vacation on the North Sea is also exciting with children.
Vacations on the North Sea coast: the East Frisian Islands
Green Spiekeroog
Oaks, birches and alders: Spiekeroog is unusually green for a North Sea island. The pretty village of the same name in the west is particularly idyllic with its old houses and narrow alleyways. Only this part of the car-free island is inhabited - the remaining two thirds belong to flora and fauna. If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is the place to be.
Where to stay: Accommodation is well booked in the high season. In the friendly "Spiekeroog" hotel, you will be spoiled with Frisian cuisine (double room/bed/breakfast 130 euros). The "Orion" guest house is super cozy and centrally located (double room/bed/breakfast from 110 euros).
Special offers: In summer, there is a large free activity program in the beach sports hall and on the beach. From Zumba to badminton and aqua fitness, there's something for everyone. Dates: www.spiekeroog.de
Norderney gem
The second-largest East Frisian island is home to the oldest German North Sea resort, dating back to 1797. In addition to the varied nature on Norderney, there are also historical buildings worth seeing, such as the Kurhaus, the "Selden Rüst" windmill and the Marienhöhe - a dune with a café and beautiful views. Speaking of views: it is particularly dark here at night, ideal for observing the starry sky - uniquely beautiful.
Overnight stay: A few hotel rooms are still available, e.g. in the 3-star "Inselhotel Bruns" (double room/overnight stay/€140). You can find the best vacation apartments available at short notice at: www.ferienwohnung-norderney.de
Tips & offers: Beach chairs are 3 euros cheaper with the Norderney Card (10 euros/day). The best mudflat walks are offered by the National Park House. The adventure playground on the west beach makes a North Sea vacation with children particularly exciting.
The magical island of Juist
Only around 500 meters wide, but 17 kilometers long - and wide dunes and sandy beaches stretch along its entire length. This has earned Juist the nickname "the most beautiful sandbank in the world". Hiking tours to the water tower, the island's landmark, or along beautiful paths through a bird sanctuary to Kalfamer, the eastern end of the island, are popular. Seals often rest here.
Stay overnight: The family-friendly "Haus Ostfriesland" in the center of Juist (double room/bed/breakfast from 100 euros). The romantic hotel "Achterdiek" scores with wellness and good cuisine (double room/bed/breakfast from 210 euros). More accommodation: www.juist.de/zauberinsel/unterkuenfte.html
Tip: Juist is car-free. Rental bikes or e-bikes are therefore ideal for exploring the island. From eight euros per day, e.g. at: www.fahrrad-juist.de