Schilksee beach

Dog-friendlyAccessible

Schilksee Beach, located on the outer Kiel Fjord, is inextricably linked with the sailing competitions of the 1972 Olympic Games. The striking architecture of the Olympic Center still characterizes the backdrop of this popular Baltic Sea beach today. It offers a unique maritime atmosphere: while relaxing on the fine white sand or in a typical beach chair (Strandkorb), you can watch sailing boats and large ferry ships passing by on the fjord.

The beach is known for its well-maintained condition and excellent infrastructure. A long, beautifully landscaped promenade invites visitors for relaxed strolls and is lined with various cafes, restaurants, and small shops. The vibrant sailing scene infuses the area with a dynamic and sporty energy, drawing not only bathers but also water sports enthusiasts from all over.

Thanks to its sheltered location within the fjord, the water is generally calmer than on the open coast, creating a safe and pleasant environment for swimming. The combination of historic Olympic significance, active maritime life, and relaxing beach facilities makes Schilksee a truly special coastal experience in Kiel.

Practical info

Beach typesandy

WaterThe water quality of the Baltic Sea is generally very good here, and the entry into the water is shallow.

Getting thereEasily accessible by car, Kiel city buses, or scenically via the fjord ferry (Fördedampfer) directly to the Schilksee harbor.

ParkingThere are large, partially paid parking lots located right next to the Olympic Center.

EntranceDuring the peak season, a resort tax (beach entrance fee) is charged; beach chairs cost extra.

LifeguardThe beach is guarded by DLRG lifeguards during the bathing season (summer).

ShadeNatural shade is scarce; people typically rely on rentable beach chairs (Strandkorb).

Best timeThe best months are July and August for pleasant bathing temperatures and maritime events.

NearbyThe city center of Kiel is not far away. Nearby is also the Falckensteiner Beach, a longer natural beach.

Family-friendly & For kids

Very family-friendly thanks to the great infrastructure, shallow water, and short walking distances.

Kids love the shallow water for splashing around, plus there are playgrounds nearby and plenty of space for building sandcastles.

Food & drink

Fischbrötchen (fish sandwich) — At the kiosks and snack bars along the promenade.
Regional fish dishes — In the restaurants around the marina.
Ice cream — At the ice cream parlors right by the Olympic Center.

Facilities

Beach chair rental
Showers
Toilets
Restaurants
Lifeguards
Sailing school
Promenade

Events nearby

Kieler Woche (Kiel Week) annually late June; 2026-06-20 to 2026-06-28 · annual
Kiel Week is the world's largest sailing event, with its regattas held on the Kiel Fjord off Schilksee and the festival village based at the Olympiazentrum Schilksee. The 2026 edition runs from 20 to 28 June. Source
Kieler Woche Sailing Regattas at Olympiazentrum Schilksee annually during Kiel Week; 2026-06-20 to 2026-06-28 · annual
The Olympiazentrum Kiel-Schilksee, the 1972 Olympic sailing venue, hosts international regattas across multiple boat classes with sailors from around 60 nations, plus a festival area with gastronomy, exhibitions and a sailors' village. In 2026 it features events including the Flying Dutchman World Championship. Source