Heiligenhafen: Pier, Beach and Harbor

With a pier stretching out into the sea, a fishing harbor and various ways to enjoy the water, Heiligenhafen reveals itself from several different sides. The adventure pier has several levels for strolling, playgrounds and a sun deck with sea views. If you are planning a stay, you can first consider whether water sports, activities on land or the harbor should be your main focus. This lets you plan your trip around the experiences that interest you most.

Pier and water sports

Surfing, kitesurfing, sailing and other water sports are among the activities on offer in Heiligenhafen. Surfing and sailing schools offer courses for beginners and other participants. This means there are various water sports to choose from, as well as courses for those looking to get started. Providers and course availability may change, so check current course offerings if you are planning to take a specific course. The pier offers another way to enjoy the water: its sun deck facing the sea invites you to linger, while the playgrounds and walking areas on several levels are other features of the structure.

Exploring on foot and by bike

Heiligenhafen also offers a range of activities on land: you can cycle and walk along the Binnensee promenade, at the beach, in the surrounding countryside and in town. Bicycles and Segways are available to rent. As rental options may vary by provider, check what is currently available if needed. You can focus your day on walks, bike rides or exploring the town. When looking for accommodation in Heiligenhafen, you can use your personal focus as a starting point and then choose specific accommodation details to suit your needs.

Fishing harbor and getting there

At the fishing harbor, you can buy fresh fish directly from fishing boats. Deep-sea fishing trips are also offered from Heiligenhafen. Harbor sales and tour options may change over time. If you want to make one of these experiences a fixed part of your plans, check what is currently on offer in advance.

You can reach Heiligenhafen by car from Lübeck or Hamburg via the A1 and the Heiligenhafen exit. For your specific journey, you can check the route against current traffic information.

More culture and nature in Ostholstein

In the wider destination of Ostholstein, Heiligenhafen’s focus on water and the harbor is complemented by other distinct attractions. In Eutin, the annual summer festival presents a variety of opera and operetta performances in the open air. The Ostholstein Museum in Eutin features changing exhibitions as well as a permanent exhibition about Eutin during its heyday around 1800. Exhibitions also change at Cismar Monastery in the municipality of Grömitz; during the winter season, concerts are also held there in the vaulted hall. The region’s cultural offerings thus include both summer open-air performances and winter concerts, as well as exhibitions.

Nature and history also offer distinct experiences in the wider destination of Ostholstein. On Fehmarn, a one-kilometer nature trail leads through the protected area at the Wallnau Waterbird Reserve. In Oldenburg in Holstein, the Oldenburger Wall is one of Schleswig-Holstein’s most significant archaeological monuments. Using excavation finds and reconstructions, the Oldenburg Wall Museum presents the archaeologically and historically reconstructable history of the Oldenburg ring fort and the Slavs in Ostholstein. These examples add regional nature and culture to your stay without replacing Heiligenhafen’s distinctive connection to the water and harbor.

Discover more destinations: Süsel, Gremersdorf, Grömitz, Ahrensbök, Weißenhäuser Strand, Fehmarn, Sierksdorf, Dahme.

Go to the main travel overview: Ostholstein.