Perched at the meeting point between the mighty River Elbe and the North Sea, Cuxhaven is a laid-back coastal town at the northern tip of Lower Saxony. A strategic stronghold used to protect Hamburg in the medieval period, the town also had long associations with fishing and shipping. A seaside resort was founded in Cuxhaven in 1816, and wellness-focused tourists have been drawn to the region ever since. Our Gurus pick of the best places to stay in Cuxhaven is one such seaside spa hotel, promising a luxury holiday experience for guests of all ages.

Keen beachgoers will find long stretches of sandy coastline with dedicated swimming and surfing zones, plus facilities for beach volleyball and football around Cuxhaven. Soak up the sunshine with a good book, build sand castles as a family, or follow seaside trails on foot or bicycle. Boat trips to spot seals are fantastic, as are day trips to the North Sea island of Heligoland. The nearby Wadden Sea National Park is home to a fascinating ecosystem, and well worth visiting in the company of an expert guide. Head to nearby Sahlenburg to discover the excellent Wadden Sea World Heritage Visitor Centre.

For an insight into Cuxhaven’s history, visit the striking 1340-built Ritzebüttel Castle, or the impressive Fort Kugelbake, a Prussian fortress from 1869. The town’s fishing roots are explored at the Windstärke 10 Museum, and you can still sea boats bringing in the day’s catch in the harbour. Feast on fresh seafood with sight of the sea at the best place to stay in Cuxhaven. Restorative wellness treatments are not to be missed — this is a popular spa resort with good reason!

The Best Places to Stay in Cuxhaven

For a Beach Break

• Badhotel Sternhagen offers sea-facing guest rooms and suites just steps from the beach. Famed for its superb wellness facilities, this traditional luxury hotel has an indoor seawater pool, sauna, yoga classes and rejuvenating treatments. With three restaurants and an abundance of activities from ten-pin bowling to horse riding, there's plenty for guests of all ages.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Bremen International Airport, and travel an hour to Cuxhaven by car. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. Alternatively, hop on a 2.5 hour train from Hamburg.
• Lower Saxony is great for a road trip! If you would like to hire a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
• Visit during the summer months, with temperatures hovering around 22°C in July and August. For fewer crowds, consider travelling during the quieter shoulder seasons of May or September, when the weather is still lovely.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Bremen.
• Alternatively, see our pick of the best places to stay in Lower Saxony.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Cuxhaven