North Zealand has always been a popular summer destination for Copenhageners who know that approximately two hours’ drive to the north lie some of the most spectacular Danish beaches. Lately, though, their favourite region of unspoiled fishing villages, magnificent castles, and endless coastlines has gained a great reputation among tourists who, especially during summer, head north of Copenhagen in order to discover ‘The Danish Riviera’ and dive into Øresund’s crystal clear waters.
Gilleleje is a former fishing village that over the past few years has become a top summer destination. The historic city with the picturesque harbour and the traditional eateries is surrounded by beautiful beaches, all of which are a stone’s throw away from the town. Some of the most popular is Strandbakkerne, east of Gilleleje harbour, that’s a child-friendly beach with shallow waters, and the long and remote Smidstrup beach in the west.
One of the things that make Tisvildeleje a popular summer resort is the broad sandy beach that surrounds the city. Due to the shallow and crystal clear waters, Tisvildeleje has earned the reputation of being one of Northern Zealand’s most child-friendly beaches and is, therefore, a favourite destination for families with kids. The beach is equipped with restrooms and a kiosk that serves snacks and local delicacies while two lifeguards are on duty all summer long.
With hordes of beach lovers from Denmark and other countries flocking to Hornbæk every summer, no wonder the long and sandy beach is considered one of the most visited in the region. With toilets, a barbeque area, little cafés and kiosks scattered along the coast, visitors will find all the necessary amenities for spending a relaxed day by the sea while the playground of natural wooden structures located on the beach is the reason little ones love this place so much. Hornbæk is also known for hosting beach volley tournaments during the summer months with dozens of spectators gathering at the beach to watch the event.
Rågeleje beach is located 50 kilometres north of Copenhagen. The combination of steep, heather-covered hills slanting down to the sand and stones beach, plus the colourfully striped beach huts stretching along the coast, make Rågeleje look like a postcard. Due to the weather conditions, it’s a popular meeting point for kite and windsurfers but on sunny warm days, the beach attracts a mixed crowd of locals and tourists of all ages and styles.
Skodsborg is a quiet and peaceful beach with no resorts, restaurants or touristy cafés nearby. A kiosk that serves refreshing ice cream and traditionally cooked fish fillet is all visitors will find near the beach. But who needs more anyway? The water here is not deep at all and the coast is covered with white sand so it’s no wonder the beach tops the list for families with kids.
The blue-flagged Liseleje beach in the northwest of Zealand is a real gem. On a hot summer day, you’ll see people relaxing by the waterfront, fitness enthusiasts horse riding or practising yoga poses, and children playing in the water. Cafés, restaurants and ice parlours are within walking distance.
Situated a walking distance from Helsingør city centre, Grønnehave beach is the perfect choice for those who want to take a break from sightseeing and spend the rest of the day by the sea. Like in most Danish coasts, the beach is covered in sand, which combined with the area’s calm waters, makes it ideal for a quick relaxing dive. A beach playground and a beach volleyball court are available for those who want to add a bit of exercise to their day.
