Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Krummbek's beach hides at the end of a farm track, announced only by a weathered sign and a half-dozen parking spaces in the grass. The shore runs narrow here, pinched between a low clay bank and the tide. Smooth stones outnumber sand grains, and the waterline shifts dramatically—what's knee-deep at noon might be exposed mudflat by dinner. Eelgrass tangles mark the high-tide boundary. A handful of sailing dinghies winter on wooden cradles above the bank; in summer their owners rig and launch with the efficient quiet of people who've done this a thousand times. No facilities, no kiosk, no lifeguard tower. Just a bench facing the water and a trash barrel that gets emptied Thursdays. Across Kiel Bay the Laboe Naval Memorial catches the afternoon sun, a white needle against the darker shoreline. Sunset works best here. The western sky stacks colour behind the silhouettes of container ships, and the breeze drops enough that the water goes glassy. Bring a jacket—the temperature plunges fast once the sun touches the horizon. You'll likely have the place to yourself; even in August, Krummbek rarely sees more than a dozen visitors in a day.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Krummbek Beach.
Photos
Krummbek Beach offers generally calm conditions suitable for swimming, given its sheltered location near Laboe on Kiel Bay. The calm-type designation suggests gentle waters, though conditions vary with weather. As a small, quiet beach with limited infrastructure, lifeguard services are unlikely, so swimmers should be confident and cautious. Supervise children closely and check local weather and water conditions before entering. The Baltic Sea remains cool throughout the swimming season, so be prepared for chilly water temperatures.
Krummbek Beach is specifically noted for fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility. Visit during weekdays or shoulder seasons (May-June, September) for the quietest experience. Even during summer peak season, this small shoreline attracts far fewer visitors than nearby Laboe's main beaches. Morning hours and late afternoon provide the most peaceful times, with the added benefit of beautiful sunset light. The hidden nature means it remains relatively undiscovered even when neighboring beaches are busy.
Krummbek Beach is located near the popular resort town of Laboe in Schleswig-Holstein. From Kiel, drive northeast toward Laboe, then look for local roads toward Krummbek. The beach's small and quiet nature means signage may be limited, so GPS navigation or detailed maps are helpful. A car is the most practical transport option as public buses primarily serve Laboe's main areas. Parking may be limited given the beach's small size, especially during summer weekends.
Krummbek Beach itself has minimal facilities, but nearby Laboe offers extensive lodging and dining options including hotels, vacation apartments, and guesthouses. Laboe is a developed resort town with restaurants, cafes, and shops serving fresh seafood and German specialties. Given Krummbek's quiet, undeveloped character, bringing your own beach supplies and refreshments is advisable. The proximity to Laboe means you can enjoy a quiet beach while having access to full resort amenities just minutes away.
Krummbek Beach offers a stark contrast to Laboe's busy main beaches, providing a small, quiet shoreline away from crowds and tourist infrastructure. While Laboe attracts thousands of visitors to its promenade and beaches, Krummbek remains a local secret for those seeking solitude. The scenic, calm waters provide a peaceful alternative without sacrificing proximity to Laboe's amenities. The beach's undeveloped character appeals to visitors wanting a more natural coastal experience while staying near a major resort town.
