Things To Do
in Scharbeutz

Scharbeutz sits on the Baltic coast in Schleswig-Holstein, offering a long sandy beach and a lively promenade. It blends resort charm with easy access to nature and nearby Lübeck Bay. The town centers around the seafront, with cafés, shops and seasonal events.

Visitors come for a relaxed coastal atmosphere, watersports, and scenic coastal walks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Scharbeutz
morning
:

Arrive in Scharbeutz and check into your seaside hotel to soak in the breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea. Spend some time unpacking and freshening up before heading out. Grab a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café nearby, enjoying fresh local pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll along the beautiful sandy beaches, dipping your toes in the cool water. Discover the enchanting beach promenade lined with shops and eateries, perfect for some afternoon shopping. Stop by a local ice cream shop to treat yourself to a delectable scoop while enjoying the sea breeze.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront seafood restaurant, where the catch of the day is served with a stunning sunset view. As the day winds down, take a romantic walk along the shore, listening to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the sands. Return to your hotel for a restful night, lulled by the sound of the sea.

day 2
Explore the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with an invigorating morning walk on the beach, watching the sunrise over the horizon. After your walk, enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café, selecting local specialties or healthy options. With your energy replenished, get ready for a fun-filled day ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in various water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. For lunch, try a beachside bistro, tasting fresh seafood or traditional German fare. Enjoy some sunbathing or beach games before winding down a bit.

evening
:

End the day with a casual picnic on the beach, bringing along local cheese, bread, and wine. As the sun sets, gather around a bonfire with friends or family, sharing stories and laughter. If you're up for it, look for local beach events or live music to enjoy.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🧃Bottled water$1-2
🚆Public transit ticket$3-5
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$120-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastline and beaches
  • Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Great value compared to other European coastlines
  • Proximity to Lübeck and Hamburg for day trips
  • Seasonal crowds in summer
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Some services close outside peak season
  • Can be windy and cool near the water
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Ich verstehe nicht." - I don't understand.

Places to Visit in Scharbeutz

Visit one of these nice places.

Scharbeutz Seebrücke (pier)

Long wooden pier with open Baltic views, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

Promenade and Dune Landscape

Golden sands and dunes along the coast, perfect for wide-angle coastal shots.

Lübeck Bay Vista Point

Elevated overlook with panoramic view of the bay and distant windmills on the horizon.

Culinary Guide

Food in Scharbeutz

Scharbeutz and the Schleswig-Holstein coast offer seafood-forward, hearty northern German fare, with simple ingredients from the Baltic. Expect fresh fish, robust soups, and seasonal produce from nearby farms. Coffee culture and bakery treats are popular for daytime indulgences. Many establishments accommodate dietary needs, especially in tourist-friendly seasons.

Scharbeutz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fischbrötchen (fish sandwich)

Fresh Baltic fish in a crusty roll, often with remoulade and onions.

Must-Try!

Labskaus

Corned beef hash with mashed potatoes, onions, and pickled beetroot—a classic North German staple.

Birnen, Bohnen und Speck

Pear, beans and smoked bacon—a hearty Holstein countryside favorite.

Rote Grütze

Bright berry dessert served with vanilla sauce or cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Seasonal Beach Market

A small seasonal market by the promenade offering fresh seafood, bread and regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Baltic coast has a maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Summer highs typically around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters hover around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed year-round, with breezy days common on the water.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly hello with Moin or Guten Tag; greet shop staff and hosts politely.

Punctuality and Quiet Hours

Be on time for appointments and keep noise to a minimum during early mornings and late evenings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Beach safety includes swimming between lifeguard flags and watching for currents. Keep valuables secure, obey signs and advisories, and be cautious on busy roads in peak season. Emergency numbers: 112 for all emergencies and 110 for police.

Tipping in Scharbeutz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common if not included.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and EC cards are common; some small venues may take only cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temps rise gradually, great for coastal walks and birdwatching; showers can occur.

Summer

Warm, long days, peak beach season; water sports and outdoor events abound.

Autumn

Mild to cool, colorful dunes; fewer crowds and beautiful golden light.

Winter

Cool and windy; some facilities close, but coastal scenery is dramatic.

Nightlife Guide

Scharbeutz at Night

Scharbeutz's nightlife is relaxed and family-friendly, focused on beach bars, seasonal outdoor venues, and live music in summer; most places close by late evening, with a tranquil after-hours vibe rather than large clubs.

Hiking in Scharbeutz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hohwachter Ufer Coastal Trail

Coastal trail along the Baltic shore between Scharbeutz and Hohwacht with dunes and pine forests.

Holsteinische Schweiz (Holstein Switzerland) Trails

Inland hiking area with rolling hills and lakes a short drive away; various easy to moderate trails.

Dune and Forest Walk near Sierksdorf

Scenic walks through dunes and pine forests with sea glimpses, suitable for all ages.

Airports

How to reach Scharbeutz by plane.

Hamburg Airport (HAM)

Major international airport about 1-1.5 hours by car or rail from Scharbeutz.

Lübeck Airport (LBC)

Small regional airport roughly 40-60 minutes away by car; limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town is compact and walkable, with beachfront promenades, shaded dunes, and well-marked paths. Streets are pedestrian-friendly in the center, and bike lanes are common along the coast.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families visit for safe beaches, amusement options, and family-friendly restaurants.

Local residents

Seasonal residents and long-time locals who know the region well.

International tourists

English is commonly understood in hospitality settings; many visitors come from across Europe.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing and windsurfing

Strong winds and calm bays make Scharbeutz popular for sailing and windsurfing.

Beach volleyball

Frequent games on the main beaches during summer.

Cycling

Excellent bike routes along the coast and into surrounding villages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy in summer along the coast with limited parking near the beachfront. Public transport (train connections to Lübeck or Hamburg) is reliable though slower than driving. Use park-and-ride options when possible and consider arriving early to beaches on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Scharbeutz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most places offer salads, soups, and vegetarian mains; inform staff about dietary needs and request egg- and dairy-free options if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available locally with clinics in Scharbeutz; for specialized care and larger hospitals, Lübeck is a short drive away. EU residents should carry health insurance and a European Health Insurance Card where applicable. In emergencies, call 112.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide