The last and most northerly German province before crossing the border into Denmark, Schleswig-Holstein greets visitors with a unique atmosphere and stunning landscape caught between two seas. Known for its access to the windswept Frisian Islands and ports of Kiel and Lübeck, beach hotels in Schleswig-Holstein offer a dynamic destination for couples seeking an alternative escape with fresh air and diverse coastline. Families will also find much to keep them occupied; with plenty of aquariums, sandy beaches and child-friendly activities for the perfect summer getaway.

Beach Hotels in Schleswig-Holstein: Our picks for the best coastal destinations in North Germany

Sylt: The Queen of the Frisian Islands

Escape to a beach hotel on the islands scattered off the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein, also known as the Frisian archipelago. These islands have long attracted stylish individuals with their miles of sandy beaches and exclusive atmosphere. Sylt is arguably the best of the bunch, and stands out for its designer stores and classic reed-thatched cottages. Accommodation is luxurious, and 5-star beach hotels here are some of the best in Schleswig-Holstein. Sylt’s miles of white sandy beaches have to be seen to be believed, and it’s easy to spend days stretched out on the sand, cooling off in the North Sea and admiring the striped candy cane lighthouses that dot the shore. If you’re looking for further ways to unwind, beach hotels on Sylt have that covered too. There are several exclusive spa resorts which provide excellent health and wellness opportunities. Furthermore, the island is home of some of Germany’s best watersports facilities if you’re looking to try something new. The Windsurf World Cup is held here annually, and the wild Northern waters are regularly filled with surfers and kite surfers making the most of the waves. For bars and restaurants, Sylt is second-to-none with plenty of trendy beach hangouts and Michelin starred eateries to discover, particularly in Kampen and Westerland. Beach hotels in this special Schleswig-Holstein location make for an idyllic summer escape.

Lübeck: Medieval History on the Coast

While not a coastal location per say, the pretty city of Lübeck charms with medieval architecture and easy access to resort towns on the Baltic Sea. Lübeck might not be instantly spring to mind when considering a beach hotel in Schleswig-Holstein but it should not be overlooked. Make Lübeck’s many hotels your base to discover what makes this region of Germany so special. Once the largest and most influential medieval trading area (and principle member of the Hanseatic League) Lübeck was compared to Rome, Pisa, Venice and Florence, and examples of this illustrious history are scattered all over the city. The Altstadt stands out for its Gothic steeples and brick facades. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town is complete with a market square and boutique stores. Located at the mouth of the River Trave, the coast isn’t too far away either. Beach hotels along Schleswig-Holstein’s east coast mean you can enjoy the best of the beach and the city. Timmendorfer Strand is a popular resort for family escapes thanks to its golden beach and many day trips and activities. Located in the Bay of Lübeck, Timmendorfer Strand is home to an aquarium and Vogelpark Niendorf zoo and owl sanctuary which will get the little ones acquainted with nature. Nearby Travemünde is equally popular for beach hotels in Schleswig-Holstein and luxury accommodation here will come with marvelous views of the giant cruise liners heading in and out of Lübeck from Scandinavia.

Kiel: Sail Away the Days in Schleswig-Holstein

The capital of Schleswig-Holstein, beach hotels near Kiel provide a vacation with a touch of historic charm. The city was heavily bombed during WW2 as it was the main port producing U-boats. There is now a museum dedicated to these mega submarines. Situated on a fjord, Kiel is also a famous sailing city and the Kieler Woche held annually at the end of June sees hundreds of yachts take to the water in a procession of sails that shouldn’t be missed! Much of the city’s greatest attractions lie along the Kiel fjord, and a beach hotel near Laboe will provide stunning views of the Baltic Sea along with access to miles of fine sandy beach and shallow water perfect for families with small children. Across the fjord from Laboe is Strande, a picturesque fishing port with five kilometers of boardwalk along the shore and a sleepy harbor to spend the evenings. What’s more, both Laboe and Strande are just a short bus journey from the center of town, making Kiel an accessible and diverse location for a beach hotel in Schleswig-Holstein.