Cuxhaven Vacation Rentals
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Tips on renting in Cuxhaven
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
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Cuxhaven, nestled where the Elbe River meets the North Sea, invites your family to experience the magic of Germany’s northern coast. Begin your adventure at the iconic Kugelbake, the wooden beacon marking Germany’s northernmost point, and let the salty sea breeze awaken your senses. The nearby sandy beaches of Duhnen and Sahlenburg offer the perfect playground for building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply soaking up the sun as the gentle waves lap at your feet.
Explore the wonders of Wattenmeer National Park with guided mudflat walks from Wattwagenfahrt Duhnen, where children can discover tiny crabs and seabirds in the tidal flats. For a splash of excitement, the Erlebnisbad Ahoi water park features pools, slides, and a relaxing spa area—ideal for both energetic kids and parents seeking a break. Don’t miss a stroll along the Alte Liebe pier, where ship watching becomes a family tradition and the sea air fills each moment with possibility.
Venture to Cuxhaven Harbor for a boat tour with Reederei Cassen Eils, and watch your children’s faces light up as you spot playful seal colonies near Neuwerk Island. Dive into local maritime history at the Windstärke 10 Wrack- und Fischereimuseum, where interactive exhibits bring the region’s seafaring stories to life. After a day of adventure, savor fresh seafood at Fischereihafen Restaurant or grab a snack from Fisch Döner Cuxhaven. Cuxhaven in the North Sea region promises your family unforgettable memories, from lakeside picnics to seaside discoveries, all year round.
Nearby cities
Otterndorf
Discover Otterndorf on Germany’s North Sea—where your family can bike along green dikes, splash in clear lakes, and picnic by the gentle river Elbe.
Dorum
Discover Dorum on Germany’s North Sea—where your family can fly kites on sandy beaches, explore tidal flats, and bike together through fresh salt air and wildflowers.
Friedrichskoog
Discover Friedrichskoog on the North Sea—where your family can bike by green dikes, spot seals, and picnic as salty breezes and wide skies invite outdoor fun.
Wanna
Discover Wanna in North Sea, Germany—where your family can bike quiet trails, picnic by sparkling lakes, and explore nature’s wonders together year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Cuxhaven has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Cuxhaven, Germany, offers the extraordinary chance to walk across the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea at low tide, an adventure that reveals a surreal landscape of mudflats teeming with wildlife. Guests can watch colossal ships glide by from the Kugelbake, the iconic wooden navigation marker where the Elbe River meets the North Sea. The vibrant Alte Liebe pier provides stunning sunset views, while the nearby Duhnen beach invites visitors to unwind in classic German strandkorb chairs, all with the bracing North Sea breeze.
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For a stay in Cuxhaven that puts you close to both nature and main attractions, consider booking a hotel or guesthouse in the Duhnen district. Here, you’ll be steps from the sandy Duhnen Beach and the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea National Park, perfect for tidal flat walks and birdwatching. You’ll also find the Kugelbake landmark nearby, which marks the northernmost point of Lower Saxony and offers beautiful views of passing ships and the Elbe estuary.
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For families seeking comfort and convenience in Cuxhaven, the Duhnen district stands out with its direct access to the sandy Duhnen Beach and the lively promenade filled with cafés, shops, and playgrounds. Many family-friendly hotels and apartments are located near the Ahoi! Erlebnisbad, a popular water park, making it easy to enjoy both relaxation and fun activities. The Sahlenburg area is also ideal, offering proximity to the Wernerwald forest and horseback riding along the coast.
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A perfect summer itinerary for families in Cuxhaven begins with a morning walk along the vast sandy shores of Duhnen Beach, where children can explore tidal flats during low tide. Head to the Wadden Sea National Park for guided mudflat hiking and fascinating wildlife encounters. Spend the afternoon at the Cuxhaven Kugelbake, the iconic wooden navigation mark, and enjoy a harbor cruise to spot playful seals. End your day at the adventure playground in Kurpark, surrounded by lush greenery and friendly deer.
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For families seeking calm, shallow water in Cuxhaven, the Grimmershörnbucht is an excellent choice. This sheltered bay along the North Sea coast offers gently sloping sandy shores, making it ideal for young children to safely splash and play. The water here remains shallow for quite a distance, and the area is well-equipped with amenities like playgrounds, beach chairs, and lifeguards during the summer, ensuring a relaxing and worry-free visit for parents.
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While Cuxhaven is primarily known for its stunning North Sea coastline and the unique Wadden Sea mudflats, it is not a traditional destination for cross-country skiing due to its flat landscape and mild winters. However, if you visit during a rare snowy spell, you might find locals creating makeshift trails along the dikes or through the coastal heathlands of the Wernerwald forest. For more reliable skiing, consider heading inland to the Harz Mountains, where snow and groomed trails are guaranteed.
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For a memorable 3-day stay in Cuxhaven, two adults can expect to spend between 400 and 600 euros, depending on your choice of accommodation and dining. Enjoy a cozy hotel near the Kugelbake landmark, savor fresh North Sea seafood at local restaurants, and explore the Wattenmeer National Park with a guided mudflat hike. Budget for some local treats at the Fischmarkt and perhaps a ferry trip to Heligoland for a truly unique excursion.