The best beaches on the Baltic Coast

With its broad beaches of golden sand, windswept dunes and wooden piers, the Baltic coast knows how to turn on the charm. Here are some of the best Baltic beaches to visit when you’re in need of a coastal escape.

Sopot, Poland

Sopot is a sophisticated spa town, which has a history of attracting royals and wealthy visitors. However, it’s becoming increasingly well known with a wider global travel community. Throughout the winter months, you can find a thick blanket of snow lying on the beach but when summer arrives, it’s a glorious 28 degrees or higher. And as the sun comes out, so do the people. Feed the swans, take a dip in the ocean or take in the fresh, salty air while walking along Europe’s longest wooden pier. To rest, recline on the toasty, white sand and take in the view of yachts drifting along the bay. Treat yourself to dinner at one of the town’s fine-dining restaurants then head back to Willa Marea.

Mändjala beach, Estonia

Mändjala beach is the southernmost beach in Estonia, ideal for either a family-friendly holiday or romantic coastal getaway. Spend time playing beach volleyball, kite surfing, paddle boarding or swimming. If you prefer to stay on land, soak up the sun in a hammock hung between the nearby pine trees. You can also camp in the surrounding park or stay in a wooden cottage at Mändjala Camping, only 5 metres from the beach.

Heringsdorf, Germany

Heringsdorf is the second-largest Pomeranian Island, boasting a vast, golden coastline for sunbathing, walking and swimming. It is also home to a grand pier that stretches out 508 metres into the Baltic Sea. Explore the shops along the shore, including a cinema, café and some tourist gift shops. Once you’ve got your coastal fix, rest and relax at Upstalsboom Hotel Baltic Sea Beach.

Nida Beach, Lithuania

Nida Beach is located on a thin, curved strip of sand called the Curonian Spit, situated between Lithuania and Russia. As a former artists’ colony, it has retained its laid-back atmosphere. On the beach, there are bars, vendors selling snacks and beanbags waiting to be relaxed in. If you feel up for a stroll, head to the local pier to find fishermen going about their daily routine. And if you’re feeling game, visit Palanga Beach, the local nudist beach. After a day of adventure, return home to the quiet Apartment rent, just three minutes from the city centre.

Świnoujście, Poland

Świnoujście is a city and port on the Baltic Sea and the Szczecin Lagoon, located in the extreme north-west of Poland. With white sands and dark-blue sea, the city’s beach is perfect for a long walk as it seems to go on forever, broken up only by a white windmill on a breakwater and sailboats on the horizon. To freshen up after your walk, jump into the ocean in the swimming zone, then let the summer sun naturally dry you off. Spend the night at Savona Świnoujście, which has the best-rated location in the area.