The most beautiful North Sea islands in East Frisia
From peaceful dune landscapes to lively seaside resorts - a trip to the German North Sea islands is full of surprises and unforgettable experiences.
The Nordlust team has fallen in love with the swell and rugged beauty of the North Sea coast and compiled a list of 5 beautiful North Sea islands that you should definitely visit during your next vacation!
It's about so much more than just sand and sea. Each of these natural gems is full of beautiful nature and untouched oases of peace just waiting to be discovered on your North Sea adventure. But the East Frisian islands also offer plenty of culinary and sporting delights.
So, grab your picnic basket and swimwear and join us on a trip to to discover the beauty of the North Sea islands!
#1 Juist: The longest sandbank in the world
Juist is the North Sea island with the longest sandbank in the world!
From the mainland, you can take the ferry directly from the Norddeich Mole pier to the island. The crossing takes around 90 minutes.
Juist is located between Borkum and Norderney and is famous for its impressive dunes, which rise up to 22 meters in height.
What makes the beach special is its dynamism. The sand constantly moves from west to east under the influence of the wind.
This continuous change has resulted in the eastern part of the island being particularly wide and extensive. This is also where you will find the breathtaking dune landscapes.
But a day in the dunes can also be exhausting. Fortunately, Juist has pretty much everything the culinary heart desires. Frisian, Italian, Spanish - pretty much everyone will find something here.
Our insider tip: For traditional Frisian cuisine, you should definitely visit Lütjes Teehaus! The shrimp soup is fantastic!
#2 Langeoog: Between dune magic and village charm
Langeoog is famous for its endless sandy beaches and wild dunes. A leisurely ferry ride from Bensersiel takes you directly to the island.
Langeoog, often referred to as the "island of life", impresses with a fascinating mixture of salty mudflats, lush salt marshes and golden sand - a true Eldorado for all nature lovers.
But Langeoog has even more to offer: The cozy village life on the island will captivate you with its small boutiques and charming cafés. The fact that no cars are allowed on Langeoog contributes to the quiet, relaxed atmosphere and allows you to simply relax to the full.
And for all the active people among you: Langeoog offers a wide range of opportunities to get out and about in the island's beautiful natural surroundings.
Whether it's extensive bike tours, hikes through the dunes or a relaxing day on the beach - Langeoog is a paradise for outdoor activities. Water sports enthusiasts can go sailing, surfing or kitesurfing here.
#3 Norderney: an adventure playground between the dunes and the sea
Norderney is known for its breathtaking white dune landscapes!
Set off from the port of Norddeich. The ferry crossing takes about an hour.
Norderney, located between Juist and Baltrum, captivates visitors with its diverse dune landscapes that stretch far into the blue sky.
A special feature of Norderney is its lively hustle and bustle. The island is a hotspot for various trend sports. From powerful kitesurfing to challenging slacklining - the movement is constantly noticeable and creates a lively atmosphere.
The vastness of the beach and dunes also offers plenty of space for such activities. The eastern part of the island in particular impresses with its width and endless expanse.
Here you can admire dune landscapes that appear almost snow-white in the sunshine.
After an action-packed day on the island, it's time for a bite to eat. Fortunately, Norderney is also a real hotspot of culinary cultures. Whether it's hearty home cooking, fine Mediterranean dishes or exotic cuisine - there's something for everyone here.
Our tip: If you want to balance the adrenaline rush of kitesurfing with a hearty meal, then head to the western part of the island. There you will find something for every taste.
#4 Borkum: watch seals on the beautiful north beach
On to Borkum, the westernmost and largest of the East Frisian Islands, which will delight you with its romantic landscapes and lively wildlife!
Instead of starting with dunes and culinary highlights, we plunge straight into the animal highlight of Borkum - the adorable seals!
In the picturesque setting of the Nordstrand beach, you can experience the cute sea creatures in their natural environment.
You can get even closer to the animals on a beach walk to the seal bank. So don't forget to pack your camera!
Your trip to Borkum starts in Emden, where you take the ferry up to the island. If you have your car with you, you can easily park it in the free public parking lot at the fire station.
From there, it's only a few hundred meters to the impressive North Sea beach. If you prefer to take it easy, the bus will take you directly to the coast.
As soon as you feel the fine sandy beach under your feet, you'll be won over by the island. You can take our word for it.
Walks along the water's edge, building castles in the soft sand or simply enjoying the sound of the sea - Borkum offers plenty of opportunities to spend a relaxing day.
The north beach is also a real hotspot for active vacationers. Thanks to its sheltered location, which keeps the surf away, it is the perfect place for water sports. Whether it's beach volleyball, surfing or kitesurfing, you can really let off steam here.
Did you know that Nordlust also comes from Borkum?
Yes, you heard right! Our young Nordlust team has its roots in the picturesque dunes and beautiful shores of this island. Our deeply rooted love for the sea and the coast shapes our maritime jewelry / sea jewelry. This passion is at the heart of our Nordlust jewelry, which you as a beach lover wear in your everyday life.
But Nordlust is about more than just jewelry. We see ourselves as part of a larger community of people who share a passion for the sea and at the same time care about preserving this beautiful environment.
Sustainability and environmental awareness are therefore an integral part of our work. With every piece you buy from us, you are not only wearing a unique piece that captures the history and feeling of our home island. You also contribute to cleaning our beloved oceans from plastic.
So, as you walk along the Nordstrand on Borkum and listen to the gentle sound of the waves, remember: every piece of Nordlust jewelry helps to keep this place so beautiful.
If you are not yet part of the Nordlust family, then take a look at our online store! We are sure that there will be something beautiful for you!
#5: Spiekeroog: an island oasis of peace and relaxation
The last island on our list is Spiekeroog.
This North Sea island is also known for its splendor of long sandy beaches and wild dune landscapes! You can reach Spiekeroog via Neuharlingersiel with a short ferry ride. Welcome to an idyllic paradise that promises peace and relaxation.
With its unique charm and picturesque paths, Spiekeroog attracts beach lovers, nature lovers and active vacationers alike. As you stroll through the fairytale village streets, you will encounter the island's rich history and culture.
The old captain's houses and the impressive St. Peter's Church give you an insight into the past of this impressive place.
What makes Spiekeroog so special is the peaceful tranquillity that surrounds you. Here you are far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Instead, you'll hear the gentle sound of the waves and the cheerful chirping of birds. It's the perfect place to calm down and simply take a deep breath.
For the more adventurous among you, however, there are still plenty of activities. Whether it's hiking through the natural dunes, cycling along the coast or just a relaxing day on the beach - you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable vacation on Spiekeroog.
Pack your bags and experience the charm of this beautiful North Sea island for yourself!
When does your North Sea adventure start?
Whether Juist, Langeoog, Norderney, Borkum or Spiekeroog - each of these North Sea islands has unique experiences and natural beauty in store for you. And that's not all East Frisia has to offer. Guides for the two missing East Frisian islands of Wangerooge and Baltrum and for all the North Frisian islands will follow soon.
Over the next few weeks, the Nordlust team will be compiling more great vacation destinations for you.
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You're just a ferry ride away from an unforgettable island vacation in East Frisia!
Thank you for reading this far!
PS: If you're on your next North Sea vacation, feel free to share your photos on social media and link us! Then we can be happy with you! 😍 @nordlust on Instagram
