Spring 2024 edition
day at the sea
A toast to the Sylt summer and a day at the seaside. We celebrate the joy of a summer getaway and the beach as a place of longing in every way – in “Naturally Sylt No. 3”.
Naturally Sylt
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The exhibition “LSF52 Surf + Beach Culture Sylt” is a tribute to the pioneers of the waves and showcases props, exhibits, photos and films from a legendary era.
The perfect wave
and their heroes
What was planned for Sylt? 72 years Where did it originate and spread far beyond the island's borders? Exactly: surfing. With a flirtatious move from Lifeguard Uwe Drath Surfing began in Germany. The man from Sylt wanted to impress a young woman on the Westerland promenade. So he rode a wave on his rescue board all the way to the beach.
His example set a precedent, and other Sylt lifeguards followed suit. Uwe Behrens and Falk Eitner They followed his example. Before the heroes of this still-young sport professionalized their equipment and stocked up on boards, wetsuits, and inspiration in Biarritz, they made do with what was available: incredibly long, finless rescue boards, heavy wetsuits, and plenty of experience navigating the North Sea. The origins of surf and beach culture and its heroes... 50s to 70s are now the subject of a multimedia exhibition at the Sylt Museum in Keitum - initiated by the two Sylt residents Angelo Schmitt and Dennis Bullen.
Pioneers of surfing
Originals from head to toe
Uwe Behrens
"Riding a wave is one of the highest feelings."
Uwe Behrens He is the second youngest of five brothers born in Westerland between 1937 and 1942. The oldest and youngest of the legendary Behrens brothers have already passed away. The trio of Dieter, Konrad, and Uwe can be found almost daily at "Buhne 16" during the summer. Dieter and Konrad are the founders of the beach bar. Uwe worked as a cook at the North Sea Clinic. He contributed his expertise to the family business every spare minute. When he wasn't working, he was, and still is, on the water. Either in a boat fishing for mackerel or on a surfboard chasing waves. With his unique style, he Inspired generations of Sylt surfers.
Falk Eitner
"Truthless freedom was everywhere."
Want some truly authentic Kampen stories? If you're interested, you should definitely take a tour of the village with Falk Eitner (born 1942) book. His walks are amusing and profound. The captain spent a large part of his life in Kampen and on the world's oceans. As a young man, he experienced adventures on "high seas," returning to his home island in the summer and working as Lifeguard in Rantum and Kampen and He was one of the first surfers in the 60s. After 25 years at sea, he settled down and was a ferry captain between List and Havneby until his retirement.
Sylt resident with vision
In conversation with Angelo Schmitt and Dennis Bullen
The first milestone on the way to a Sylt surf and lifeguard museum has been reached: With the exhibition "LSF52 Surf + Beach Culture Sylt," Sylt residents Angelo Schmitt and Dennis Bullen have created a must-see attraction of the season. There, in close collaboration with museum director Alexander Römer, the two provide fascinating insights into the origins of a culture that now inspires a fourth generation on Sylt and is a defining aspect of identity for many locals.
Describe how the Sylt beach and the corresponding lifestyle have influenced you?
Dennis Bullen: The nature of Sylt, the beach, the sea and the tides are, I think I can speak for both of us, Compass and source of power. Our beach life Childhood and youth has profoundly influenced our lives. The Westerland beach section "Oasis" was for me like a homeMy mother, my stepfather, and I lived there more or less continuously during the summer months; my stepfather was a lifeguard there. The rhythm of nature and everything one needs to know about the Sylt beach became second nature to me as a result. Surfing and skating It played a huge role for me. In winter, we traveled to the surf spots in the Basque Country.
Angelo Schmitt: My parents also maintained a [business/activity] in the 70s and 80s. extremely unconventional lifestyle Things were pretty hippie-ish at our place. Even as a young boy, my family and I traveled to the coasts of India, quite stereotypically. As a teenager, I became... Sylt beach, surfing and skating are their way of life. The lifeguards and older teenagers, like Markus Mager or Tom Knuth, who were already legendary performers back then, were my role models. It was an honor to be on the water with them. or skated on homemade ramps. I skated for years as Lifeguard I worked, but I found my own values and a lifestyle, who was nowhere near as eccentric as my parents'.
Dennis, you decided early on that you had to go far and wide for a long time before you could come back...
Dennis: Yes that's true. I needed to get away first in order to be able to look at the island with fresh eyes. After graduating from high school, I studied at the Duborg School in Flensburg, in Aarhus, and in Australia, earning a Master's degree in Experience Economy. It was during my studies that I first encountered a Concept for a Sylt lifeguard museum developed to show how important they were and are for Sylt's beach culture.
The surf scene has always been surrounded by an aura of adventure, freedom, and a deep connection to the island. Is that still the case today?
Dennis: Perhaps not in the purest form as in the 50s up to the late 90s. But these still exist today. wonderful dynamics: The older generation inspires the younger – with their knowledge of nature, their skills on the water, and also with their lifestyle. Experiences at sea connect people and create identity. The surfing spirit has become an economic factor, but on Sylt, the beach culture has managed to retain something original and unique. This was clearly evident at the opening of the exhibition. People from all walks of life came to attend. Different generations together, who normally avoid such official events. But it was apparently important for them to come, because they can probably identify with this exhibition. Experiencing that was the most wonderful gift for Angelo and me.
"What really makes Sylt sexy? The surf spirit!"
A monument to Sylt's surf and beach culture
"Sylt's nature, beach, sea and tides are our compass and source of strength. The beach life of our childhood and youth has had a profound influence on our lives."
Dennis Bullen (born in 1983) is Island child Through and through. A true Sylt native. But not the type to enjoy the colorful hustle and bustle on the Home Island exclusively through rose-tinted glasses. He has seen the world, lived and studied in Denmark and Australia, and returned a few years ago. His experiences outside the island bubble allowed him to appreciate this unhurried, wide horizon maintain.
"In any case, it is high time to document what makes Sylt fundamental and what originated here."
possesses comparable virtues Angelo Schmitt (Born in 1973). The entrepreneur, artist, surf instructor, and activist for the environment, youth, and sports is practically the Sylt beach culture made flesh. Two decades ago, he was a great role model for Dennis. Today, the two are realizing a project that has long been close to their hearts: a multimedia, vibrant, and multifaceted tribute to the heroes of surf culture who shaped the island like almost nothing else.
How did you come up with the idea for the museum?
Angel: Beach and surf museums can be found all over the world. Because these Lifestyle of the locals, who spend large parts of their lives on the beach inspires many people determines the identity of coastal towns, makes them into Places of longing. Surfers, especially those from Sylt, are generally not inclined to talk much about themselves and their lifestyle. That's probably why you read and hear far more about top chefs on Sylt than about the people who live and work on the beach and in the water.
Dennis: That's right. The skate and surf scene on Sylt is a community that gets along without many words. Sylt Frisians have a innate skepticism towards officialdom. It's wonderful that Sylt already had its first surf club back in the 70s, and that today there's a clubhouse on Brandenburg Beach to support young talent. Twenty years after the initial idea, the "multipark" plan is finally becoming a reality. We need authentic places of encounter.
Angel: It was high time to document, what makes Sylt what it is and what originated here. Dennis already had a museum concept, which we further developed together and then presented to the sports, youth and culture committee of the municipality of Sylt. Museum director Alexander Römer understood this immediately and championed the exhibition – as a first step towards a museum.
I had a wonderful A collection of old boards, props and exhibits from the early days of lifesaving and surfing. We also have in the Sylt Archive We found some fantastic original material. And of course, we know all the heroes of that era personally. Our exhibition thrives on films and interviews, which we conducted with the “boys” from “Buhne 16” (= the Behrens brothers, founders of the beach bar and surf pioneers), with the son of surf pioneer Uwe Draht, with captain and ex-lifeguard Falk Eitner and many others.
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Where more fitting than in Surf Club Sylt Could the interviews for the exhibition have taken place? Pictured here are former lifeguards Falk Eitner (left) and Gaston Surtmann.
"Scarily beautiful"
The legends of Sylt's surf culture about waves, surfing and the highest of all feelings
When they talk about their active time at the beach, the room falls completely silent. Lifeguard clique around Uwe Behrens and Falk Eitner, and with them many others look back at the beginnings of surf and beach culture. Photographer and filmmaker Louie Angenendt She turned her memories into words and images for eternity.
Oh, them again. People probably said that because we looked so wild.Falk Eitner
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"When you're standing there on the board. The feeling of superiority when you've caught the wave..."
(Walter Viereck)
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"We were fascinated by the waves and the noise they made over the city. Incredible. Especially because there was no wind, totally calm, only the sound of the waves crashing and crashing could be heard. Beautiful. Eerily beautiful." (Uwe Behrens)
Did you have a lot of support in implementing your exhibition idea?
Dennis: Sylt Marketing is providing logistical support for the project and has hired the photographer and filmmaker. Louie Angenendt financed, with which Angelo and I had already realized various projects previously.
Angel: For the exhibition, for example, the carpenters of the municipality of Kampen have created a Original lifeguard cart It was built, where people can watch the films and interviews. Kampen sponsored the project. And so there are numerous supporters, such as... "Port 9", "Samoa Seahorse", "Island child" or "Stage 16", who were enthusiastic about the vision.
The exhibition at the "Sylt Museum" is a trial run for your museum project. Alexander Römer, who manages all museums and curates exhibitions for the "Sölring Foriining" (= Sylt Association), has supported you with advice, practical help, and his expertise.
Angel: We are incredibly grateful for this. A room in the museum is available to us for the exhibition. In this, we limit ourselves to the first three decades of surfing on Sylt.
The true beginnings of surfing date back to the 12th century – as evidenced by cave paintings in Polynesia. Then, in the 18th century, it arrived in Hawaii, but only much later spread to all coasts. We on Sylt didn't join until 1952. Even before Sylt residents like the Behrens brothers or Jürgen Hönscheid exported the first proper boards from Biarritz and the USA to Sylt, and later built their own boards, we already had Lifeguard Uwe Drath, who, in his own words, wanted to "make eyes at a spa guest on the promenade" in the summer of 1952. He grabbed his incredibly long rescue board without a fin, leash, or any concrete idea of what he was planning, paddled out, caught a wave, and surfed to shore. You can experience this and everything that happened afterwards in the exhibition..
Almost all of the Sylt pioneers were personally present in Keitum for the opening.
DennisYes, the legends and all the other surfing generations and their supporters came too. It was like a big family reunion. A unique and significant moment, brimming with magic. The feedback was also very touching - we had of course hoped that it would turn out that way - but you can never really know.
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Interview: Imke Wein
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This interview was conducted in a very special place: In the abandoned halls of the "Kaufhaus Stolz" department store, Angelo Schmitt provides a space for young people enthusiastic about roller sports to meet and pursue their sport. The site belongs to the company "Lidl," which will be building a new facility here. Until then, however, the company has made the building available free of charge for youth activities on Sylt.
Short & sweet
The exhibition
The exhibition "LSF52 Surf + Beach Culture Sylt" It looks at the fascinating history of surfing, initially focusing on the 50s, 60s, and 70s. "LSF52" offers no protection against sunburn, but it does provide a rich collection of props and exhibits.
The exhibits include boards and surfing equipment, as well as rescue devices and gear such as horns and ropes. In addition, there are interviews with surfing pioneers, as well as photos and Super 8 footage from private collections and the Sylt archive.
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May 5, 2024 to January 5, 2025
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Sylt Museum, Am Kliff 19, Keitum
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Admission: 6 euros (with guest card), children 2,50 euros
People on the beach
A typology
The longing for the beach is not something that is hardwired into human DNA, even though global vacation choices might suggest otherwise. But: Until 250 years ago, beaches were places of longing without a doubt. Rather, they were the epitome of danger and impending doom. Natural forces and violent storms could destroy livelihoods and lives in a single night. On the beach, people often faced violence from enemies and pirates. Rotten food from capsized ships and diseases brought by sailors threatened their health. Plenty of reason, in any case, to only venture onto beaches for earning a living or for beachcombing.
It wasn't until the late 18th century that geniuses like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe or Romantic artists like Caspar David Friedrich drew inspiration from the coastlines and artistically immortalized them in words and pictures. Around the same time, progressive physicians encouraged people to take a dip not only in rivers and lakes, but also in the sea. The beneficial effects of the maritime climate were intensively praised and discovered by more and more people in the following decades. Locals remained reserved towards the pleasures of the beach for a long time.
Westerland became a seaside resort in 1855 and welcomed just 100 summer visitors in its first season. 168 years later, the island of Sylt records nearly one million guests. Illustrator Martin Haake once developed a typology of beachgoers in the here and now for the “Naturally Sylt” magazine.
Excellent!
Martin Haake
Martin Haake works Internationally as a freelance illustrator. After years in Hamburg and London, he now lives in Berlin. His clients include the "New York Times," the "Wall Street Journal," "National Geographic," and we at Sylt Marketing were also able to meet him. multiple award-winning creatives already winning over for projects. Including the idea of combining the classic Sylt beach types in one exclusive “Where’s Waldo?” to portray.
The Berliner is familiar with the topic Coast and sea intimately connectedHis latest book, which he published together with author Judith Homoki, is called "By the sea"It explains the World of Coasts in a large format, it allows viewers to travel along the Earth's oceans. A Picture book and non-fiction book with maps, exciting stories and amazing facts.
Sylt beach types
Among the Sylt Frisians, there are still quite a few who haven't been to the beach for years. “Beach avoider” Among the guests, however, they are a tiny minority. Whether local or guest - how each individual celebrates the beach fun along our 40 kilometers of west coast is as colorful as life itself. We have a few “common beach types” portrayed in words and pictures:
The early bathers
Distinct individualists with a penchant for "lovable eccentricity"
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They arrive between 6 and 9 a.m. in the summer. They rarely stay in the water for more than five minutes.
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Wear a bathrobe with nothing underneath or at most a jogging look.
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They are not deterred from their bathing habits by wind or weather.
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The more ambitious swimmers continue bathing well into November and celebrate their morning ritual from May onwards. The most dedicated swimmers continue bathing throughout the winter.
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High density of early morning bathers at the Seestraße crossing in Wenningstedt, Sturmhaube in Kampen, and the bathing area at Morsumer Watt.
Early morning swimmers avoid the hype And they are never where "everyone" is. Early morning swimmers appear between 6 and 9 a.m. in the summer at all those beaches that have a short access path. Dress code: Bathrobe with nothing underneath or at most jogging attire. Early morning bathers generally arrive "without breakfast", usually dive resolutely, often naked, into the waves, rarely stay in the water for more than five minutes, incorporate gymnastic exercises before or after, and are gone as quickly as they appeared. They are usually not seen near the beach again for the rest of the day. Neither wind nor weather can shake their bathing habits, and they like to describe their morning ritual as "my lifeblood". The proportion of Sylt locals in the "early morning swimmers" reference group is high, as is the average age. The more dedicated swimmers continue bathing well into November, celebrating their morning ritual from May onwards. The "ultras" swim throughout the winter – but island-wide, this group numbers no more than two dozen locals. Early morning swimmers are unlikely to be found actively participating in the Westerland "Christmas swim" or the "New Year's swim" in Wenningstedt. It would be beneath them to turn their quiet pleasure into a spectacle.
The beach cliques
Between beach friendship and community of fate
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They meet every year during the summer holidays on the same stretch of beach.
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They meet up after a leisurely breakfast, bringing all their belongings and the best provisions.
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Rough weather provokes exuberance, intimacy, and playfulness. "Luxury cliques" only appear when the sun is shining.
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It is not uncommon for lifelong friendships to develop during a summer holiday on Sylt, and sometimes even love.
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Members of beach groups need space for their equipment and to prepare provisions.
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High concentration of cliques on the western beaches of List, Buhne 16 in Kampen and Samoa in Rantum. Local beach cliques: Risgap beach access, Wenningstedt.
For decades, often across four generations, people in this reference group have met every year during the summer holidays of school-age children. on the same stretch of beach. Very easy: You simply pick up where you left off last summer with your beach friendships. Established Sylt beach cliques need little to no alternative activities. They arrive after a leisurely breakfast, bags and all, and stay together until evening with the best provisions, their favorite games, and conversations.
Over the years, these groups of friends become communities bound by fate. This is partly because they've already weathered summers with two weeks of westerly winds and little sunshine. Because: Especially Harsh weather provokes exuberance, intimacy, and playfulness. and provides the real moments of happiness. Most beach cliques prefer a minimalist style and don't need much besides their favorite beach accessories.
The wonderful effect of experiencing a return to Sylt's nature during the holidays is pedagogically valuable for the youngest children and promotes the resilience that is often sought after in psychology. Young people often form lifelong friendships during their summer holidays, and sometimes even love. Later business relationships and starting families are not out of the question. Members of beach groups are rarely accommodated in hotels: they need the space of a holiday apartment or house, preferably one they own, for themselves, their equipment, and preparing provisions.
The beach clique in the local Sylt version works similarly: As soon as the work schedule allows, one goes to their Regular beach, where you know in advance who you are guaranteed to meet there. If you want to be alone, you have to go somewhere else.The parents keep each other updated on all important matters. The children are engrossed in their play and couldn't be happier.
There is also "Luxury cliques"Those who only appear when the sun is shining, for whom their equipment is an identity-defining status symbol, like a car in a beach parking lot. The deluxe clique almost exclusively camps near beachside shops and restaurants.
The sporty activists
Let the games begin
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Joggers wear earplugs and technology on their arms to measure pace and bioparameters.
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Surfers provide dramatic highlights on land and water.
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They are in constant communication with each other about the "swell" and all relevant topics.
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Beach volleyball teams form wherever there are nets.
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Free beach gymnastics and individual fitness, Pilates, meditation and yoga sessions are available on all main beaches along the west coast.
Sporty active people are divided into several subcategories, including:
In summer, they can only be found in the mornings, in winter all day long. Almost all of them wear earbuds and technology for measuring pace and biometric parameters on their arms. At high tide, the runners often have grim expressions because their high-tech shoes sink in, and with wet feet and an awkward posture, they can't maintain their pace. Among the Sylt beach runners, however, you also frequently find the category of running beginners in "me time" mode, sometimes even accompanied by a personal trainer: "I'm on vacation! If not now, when?" is the perfectly valid question they ask themselves regarding their resolution.
There are designated special beaches for kitesurfers, which aren't visually obtrusive – except at Ellenbogen. The Sylt surfers are a major attraction for other beachgoers in many places. They provide dramatic highlights – as do suddenly appearing porpoises or lifeguard interventions. Surf beginners congregate at the training spots, for example, at K4 beach in Hörnum or at the Risgap section in Wenningstedt. Surfers of all price ranges can be seen in front of the "Surf Club" at Brandenburger Strand in Westerland. The proportion of local surfers is extremely high. This is often combined with wind and wave app forecasts (e.g.,...) WindfinderAfter a quick personal inspection, on days with good waves, wetsuit and board are grabbed, and everything else is left behind. This is true regardless of the season. The best surf spots on Sylt vary from year to year, depending on currents and storms. Surfers are in constant communication with each other about the swell and all relevant topics.
They have a high degree of overlap with the beach cliques. Many clique members are also members of the constantly changing teams that form wherever there are nets – for example, on the western beaches of List. Matches are played daily, with varying degrees of ambition, and sometimes there are even official tournaments (the "Kampen Cup" at "Buhne 16" – for 42 years!). The community at Wenningstedt's campsite beach and the fans of the eastern beaches of List and Hörnum are particularly sporty.
Free beach gymnastics are offered on all the main beaches along the west coast. Many long-time visitors attend every session during their stay, and have been doing so for decades, regardless of the weather. Individual fitness, Pilates, meditation, and yoga classes are also available on all beaches, but these must be paid for on-site.
The hikers
Pilgrims at the floodplain
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High traffic volume, especially in spring and autumn, between 11 am and 18 pm between Westerland and Kampen.
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They wear functional clothing and roll up their trouser legs.
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Collecting and searching for shells or amber is widespread.
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If assistance dogs are present, they usually have neon-colored leashes.
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We're traveling with a small backpack full of provisions and a water bottle.
The procession of the floodplain walkers varies depending on the season. It is particularly common in spring and autumn between 11 a.m. and 18 p.m. The number of hikers between Westerland and Kampen is very high.Beyond this zone, solitary running, walking, and strolling are possible anywhere and anytime. Especially in winter. In the summer months, they are mostly crowded with small groups. Backpack and water bottle Those equipped with them are not so conspicuous compared to the other beachgoers. Other characteristics: Functional clothing and rolled-up trouser legsIn winter: excessively polar-ready clothing. Collecting and searching for shells or amber This trait is common in this species. A certain seriousness during beach walks is also typical. If assistance dogs are present, they are usually equipped with neon-colored leashes.
The bra size faction
At home in a beach chair
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They have daily beach time that is equivalent in length to a workday.
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No fair-weather guests. In bad weather, the basket is turned against the wind and things are waited out – with a book, a wool sweater and a thermos.
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Beach chairs are booked well in advance, or people already have an annual chair with the same number for years.
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Not all, but many basket fans appreciate the daily surf bath.
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High density of bikinis on Westerland's main beach and on all nudist and dog beaches.
Similar to the beach cliques, the members of the bra-cup faction hold the Sylt beach culture They often come every year for decades and They tend to stay longer than the average 7,4 days.They aren't fair-weather visitors and have daily beach hours that are comparable in length to a workday. In bad weather, they turn their beach chair into the wind. They take a breath of fresh air and wait it out – with a book, a wool sweater, and a thermos. The beach chair crowd arrives with their trusty beach bag. preferably by bike to the transition.
The beach chair as a kind Holiday home You either book well in advance or you already have an annual basket with the same number for years. The location hasn't actually varied over decades. - unless something bad has happened. The bra size crowd knows the life story all spa card inspectors, basket keepers and lifeguards, and guards their secrets. People appreciate familiarity but do not seek boisterous socializing.
The sunscreen has been from the same manufacturer for decades; it has simply received a higher SPF over the years. Not all of them, but Many cup-wearing enthusiasts appreciate the daily surf bath.The large beach towel is changed at most once per season, is heavy as lead by the end of the vacation, and contributes to the overall holiday feeling. It's always frayed at the edges; this proves how long you've been coming. Your provisions consist of chopped fruit and sandwiches. On beaches without beach baskets, there's a similar type who simply lounges contentedly directly on the sand. In the beach basket crowd, there's the... The proportion of naturists and dog owners is disproportionately high..
The sundowners
"When the red sun sinks into the sea near Capri"
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They gather when a sunset with an orange orb is approaching.
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Bring your own drinks or come to the spots where the catering is set up accordingly.
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The high dune platforms along the west coast are very popular for watching the sunset.
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Sunsets are no good if they aren't photographed and the photos sent to loved ones back home.
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Sunset enthusiasts assure us: "No sunset is like the next!"
Many sunset enthusiasts had already spent the whole day at the beach, get dressed up at home They eat beautifully and come back when there's a sunset with orange ball It's brewing. Either they bring their own drinks or they go to spots where the food and drink establishments cater to this need. Rare, but also present: people who make the pilgrimage to the beach exclusively for sunset, find their spot along the west coast, and then go directly to bars, pubs, or clubs. Very popular for the sunset experience: the high dune platforms, such as at... Westerland's Stairway to Heaven. Also welcome: a small cushion for the bottom and drinks with a twist. Sunsets are celebrated. Often, this is also true for the beach groups who simply stayed. A must with this experience: sunsets are no good if they can't be photographed and the photos sent to loved ones back home. This sometimes spoils the actual experience, but sunset enthusiasts assure us: "No sunset is like the next!" What needs to be proven.
In good company
Not shown here, but also not to be underestimated by beachgoers.
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Business People
For a meeting on Sylt, and then a quick trip to the beach in a suit. -
Yes-men
Parties of beach baptisms and weddings -
A class of its own
Teachers with their pupils on a class trip -
School romance
Rehabilitation patients on a therapeutic mission
Why is it so beautiful at the seaside?
Column by Imke Wein
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Google returns 6.520.000 results when you enter the search terms. "Quotes & More" Yes. There are some beautiful things in there, like: "The sea is not a landscape, it is the experience of eternity." But there's also a lot more of that calendar-quote wisdom that hits the mark with the sting of a jellyfish in an east wind—like: "No matter how much money you have, at the beach there's always the sea." Be that as it may. It's all a matter of taste. And the quality of the drivel has no bearing on the conclusion anyway. The longing towards the horizon, towards sand between the feet, towards the lapping of waves, the rhythm of ebb and flow, the primal force of the ocean. It apparently touches the soul. far more than the sight of a quarry lake - whether you are Thomas Mann or an occasional poet.
The sea inspires, enchants, transports; it is an existential experience, a place of longing and power. Only surpassed by the inspirational power of romantic love and its hardships. ("Love & Quotes" = 37,8 million results on Google.)
There are countless studies and psychological findings on the question of why people from all imaginable backgrounds like to hang out by the sea (everyone except perhaps a few Sylt residents who demonstrably prefer picking herbs in their gardens to going to the beach).
All the world's study results in a short version:
1. Of all natural landscapes, water has the most most calming effectSo, for a quick dip, a pond will do. Only the sea, however, makes a all-encompassing sensory experienceThe blue-green-turquoise light spectrum has been proven to reduce stress (although the North Sea rarely offers turquoise, no idea if that has any effect on the result of the study!).
2. The view of the horizon suggests the otherwise rare Perception of infinityEven the offshore wind farm off Sylt can't ruin it. The sense of smell is delighted with a salty, crisp freshness (with various sub-notes), as are the taste buds.
3. The aerosols and swimming in the sea revitalize and strengthen the lungs and the immune system. The frequent direct contact of the skin with water, sun, and sand in summer also contributes to this. creates a connection between body, mind and the greater wholeThe sensory level grounds us and makes our originality tangible.
4. The Wave melodies have a meditative effect on the brain. - is therefore also used in trauma therapy and, of course, in every spa area with more mundane intentions.
5. The raw power and vastness of the ocean minimizes personal worries. and the feeling of one's own importance - this effect should be used deliberately in politics.
All in all, these are insights that, especially for someone living near the sea, reinforce the knowledge that one has all the resources for well-being, balance and character optimization right on one's doorstep.
On Sylt, there's an added bonus: Almost nowhere on the island can you step directly from your terrace onto the beach. You have to walk along boardwalks, stroll through dunes, and trudge up and down through deep sand before your longing can be fulfilled and you finally enter this world of sensual delights. Much like love and Christmas. The preparation and anticipation are simply the icing on the cake.
Sylt plays
The Beach Quartet
Modesty aside: It's perfectly fine if well-traveled people claim that the beach on Sylt belongs to the Most beautiful on earthEven US media outlets like "Time Magazine" attest to this quality. Sylt boasts 40 kilometers of uninterrupted splendor: Finest sand, dunes or cliffs on one side, the vast sea on the other. Depending on wind strength, tide, season and the status of sand replenishment, Sylt's beaches range in width from 50 meters at their narrowest points to a monumental 250 meters at their widest (e.g., currently in northern Kampen). Who or what can compete with that? And as an added bonus: The island also boasts enchanting sandy beaches on its east coast, where you are usually completely alone in paradise and can also enjoy great swimming at high tide.
We have a small Beach Quartet mixed with beach tips for different needs. Four categories, 16 beaches - from classic beaches to insider tips.
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Robinson Beaches
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Sports beaches
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Most beautiful way to the beach
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The Evergreens
40
Kilometers of beach between Hörnum and List
8000
Beach chairs on the beaches along the west coast
4
Beach saunas for wellness the Frisian way
1714
Hours of sunshine per year
Category 1
Robinson Beaches
For those who get hectic on crowded beaches: Sylt has a variety of beaches between Hörnum and List. a good dozen beach areas, where one can simply surrender to the air, the water, the peace, the sound of the waves and the birdsong. A deluxe break.
Between Kampen and List, diagonally opposite the bird decoy, below the academy by the sea. Here, over 100 years ago, people enjoyed... Free spirits enjoying their summer retreat and were the first to Nudist culture cultivated. This spirit is still palpable, even though the official Lister nudist beach is located further north. Joker factor: Ideal for beach days with your group of friends.
The catch at the top of the island is a cosmos unto itself - with two lighthouses, many sheep, six buildings, one family who lives here all year round and a toll station that ensures the five-kilometer road through the nature reserve is never overcrowded. The uniquely beautiful dune landscape belongs to the owners of the Listland. The beaches here each have a subtly different character, but each exudes an off-the-beaten-path vibe. Bonus factor: The east side is ideal for kitesurfers.
Just go to the other side. Whether it's the eastern beach in List or the eastern beach in Hörnum with its sports facilities, the bathing area in Morsum, or the Braderup beach. There are also plenty of options on the eastern side of the island. Beach life in all its facets And sometimes, excellent infrastructure for sports and leisure. Between Hörnum and Rantum, there are idyllic, secluded stretches of beach. Joker factor: Sunrise on the beach.
Just outside Hörnum, Where the circus wagon stands and the legendary Angelo Schmitt has his surf school, you will also find the Highest density of locals. Although: There isn't really a true density. Beach life is spread out over an infinite amount of space. Joker factor: Dress code - Nothing is mandatory, anything goes.
Category 2
Sports beaches
Is a sauna session actually considered exercise? In any case, on Sylt there are... the very best beach saunas ever (in List, in Hörnum, in Rantum campsite and in “Samoa”, Rantum) and beaches where you can learn to surf, compete in volleyball and beach ball tournaments or be instructed in gymnastic exercises.
At the northern end of the Westerland beach promenade. The classic for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Here you'll find a long-established surf school and the "Surf Club Sylt" for locals. Also located here is the... "Funbeach" With music, entertainment, various beach sports, and wonderful encounters. Also incredibly exciting for those who prefer to watch sports, because the best activities take place here during the summer months. German and international competitions will be held. Gastronomy Of course, it's also available here in full form. Joker factor: Short walk to the beach - also suitable for people with disabilities.
At the southern end of the promenade, go down the wooden walkway. You can find it in the Sylt4Fun Arena jump or play soccer, then this is the second headquarters of the Hörnum Surf school “South Cape” and down on the beach you can also volleyball Match. The burger at "Twisters" is also great, and it's an option for people with disabilities. Beach wheelchairs for rent and to get into the water. Joker factor: Short path to the beach with wheelchair and stroller friendly wooden construction.
Dirk Effler runs his business here surf schoolDown on the beach, a group is meeting. relaxed audience socializing, beach and water sports. Joker factor: Ideal for families and friends with a desire for freedom.
Nowhere completely glamorous, but... totally underrated. Along the eight-kilometer-long west beach of List, there's practically everything a beachgoer could want: a sauna, nets for soccer and volleyball, a youth beach in the north, nudist areas, and in between, complete peace and quiet. An all-rounder in the most beautiful surroundings. Joker factor: Cult figure Manfred has been providing sporting inspiration for millennia.
Category 3
Most beautiful way to the beach
As they say, the journey is the destination. The most wonderful mental preparation for a day at the beach on Sylt You'll experience it here. The scenic highlight is also the connection between the Kampen and Wenningstedt campsites. You should definitely go there. But for other reasons, these four are also worth seeing:
At the end of a perfectly straight street in the south of Wenningstedt is the best place to take a morning stroll. Early morning bath gain weight, quick surf to go or just once to look over the edge and to sort out my thoughts. Nearby restaurant: "Moin". Bonus factor: Super toilet cubicle
The nudist beach for committed nudists and those who prefer the uninhibited experience. Head towards Buhne 16 parking lot and then keep left; after a... a wildly beautiful and fragrant walk at some point. At the designated location Nude Beach There is a great kiosk: it's called "Laaning" and is co-operated by "Buhne 16". Joker factor: Ideal for those who appreciate a sophisticated yet totally relaxed beach culture.
Every dune formation has its own unique character. The path from the parking lot to the Lister beach sauna is particularly impressive, especially on the way back – with the Wandering dunes as a distant backdrop. This path is pure deceleration – especially when you then spend the day in the Beach sauna spends. Joker factor: Ideal for romantics who love to run.
From the small parking lot at St. Peter's Church to the village's main beach, passing charming thatched cottagesAt the top of the dune, you can look out over the mudflats and the open sea. Pure island and idyllic Bullerbü feeling. Joker factor: Sundowner on the large balcony overlooking the sea.
Category 4
The Evergreens
The beaches that Sylt's image and always be mentioned immediately, when it comes to the island. Although we've already revealed a few insider beaches – these four in the quartet are the "Classic".
Parking lot, also for many bicycles, short walk to the beach. At the foot of the Kampen Red Cliff, With the "Kliffende" house as a backdrop, morning yoga sessions, and incredibly friendly staff – that's Kampen's "Sturmhauben-Strand" (Ball Hood Beach). Oh yes, in the eponymous... Gastro flagship You can also stay overnight and drink home-brewed beer. Joker factor: Holding hands on the wooden platform.
The mother of all beach barsIt's been a popular destination for over 40 years; there are no more nudists on the beach, but otherwise it has everything you'd expect. Including nets for playing volleyball. Joker factor: Fresh mackerel from the grill.
Anyone who likes Rimini in the summer will also love Westerland's main beach. It's always bustling with activity. Beach promenade, bandstand and hungry seagulls. High density of regular customers. Bonus factor: Short walk to the beach.
Actually, every word about the The world's most exclusive wooden shack It has been written. Perhaps that's why: Despite all the fuss about the "Sansibar," the locals also like to go to the Rantum dunes once a year to enjoy this unique gastronomic mix to enjoy. And the beach here is wonderful too. Joker factor: Eating in a beach chair.
Beach variations
Game expansion with the classics
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dog beaches
Dogs can run free on these beaches. In some places, dogs must be kept on a leash year-round. -
nudist beaches
Nude bathing fun: On these Sylt beaches, naturism can be celebrated. -
Family beaches
These beaches are particularly suitable for families due to their location or on-site playgrounds. -
Guarded beaches
Lifeguards are on duty at these beaches from May to September. Pay attention to the flags!
Beach restaurants
Let's try it out...
Not in front of, but behind the dune, but so remarkable because it really is It exudes youthful vibes. This nice cafe with espresso machine and shop for sails, boards and fashion is pleasantly different.
at the southern edge of Rantum, formerly a very bourgeois wooden shack, now Super cool, fancy restaurant with a beautiful corporate design and concept store.
At the bottom of Wenningstedt's main staircase, a new beach restaurant in a convenient location opened at Christmas, received many advance accolades And it's really nice. And delicious, of course. The setting is everything.
Give it a try - it certainly looks stylish: After the era of König and Wonnemeyer The owners of the "Pony" in Kampen and several clubs in Hamburg have now taken over the "Strandhalle" in List. Accordingly, there are Pentecost also a Open Air.
Surf in view The fish tastes almost like it was caught by hand. In the beachside bistros, which line the Sylt coast like pearls, a relaxed atmosphere replaces the dress code. The sound of the sea is often accompanied by lounge music, which also transition into faster beats as the sun sets.
"Uncle Johnny“ in Wenningstedt, “beach shelter","Samoa" and "Zanzibar.“ in Rantum, “S-Point" and "Beach house“ in Westerland, the “Stage 16" and that "Kaamps 7“ in Kampen, the “Beach" or that "Cape Horn“ in Hörnum: These are the Classics, whom everyone knows and appreciates. Here are a few more youngsters.
Quick beach etiquette guide
Wherever many people gather in one place, there is a need for regulations. This also applies to the beaches of Sylt.
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As a beachgoer, Kite surfer or surfer Respect for nature, wildlife, and of course other people is paramount.
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The same applies to dogs and their owners. How should you behave with dogs on the beach? What's allowed and what isn't? Here's our guide. flyers.
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Taking away cigarette butts, empty containers and all kinds of rubbish is a matter of honor.
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The North Sea is not a bathing pond. Therefore, this small, rugged sea, despite all the delight it brings, also demands great respect from bathers. Rules of the lifeguards These guidelines must be followed, and it makes perfect sense to find out about current conditions, surf strength, flags, etc.
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Building sandcastles on Sylt's beaches is prohibited, especially around the beach chairs - so that the teams of the five Sylt tourism companies can more easily retrieve the approximately 8000 pieces of seating furniture in case of storms.
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Open fires or barbecues are strictly prohibited.
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Flying kites is only permitted in designated areas.
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Cycling to the beach is always smarter than driving a car.
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The initiative ""Bye Bye Plastic" In the summer of 2024, all beachgoers are encouraged to participate in the following trend from Sweden: Plogging, which involves repeatedly bending down and collecting trash while running along the beach. This way, you can do a good deed for yourself and the environment every day.
Six questions for the
Water-gazer
Jan Kruger Friese is a picture-perfect Frisian. That's why his interview answers aren't very long. As the owner of the "Beachhouse" restaurant in Westerland, he 25 years of professionally observing the waterOf course, only if his guests allowed it. Despite all their talent, his twin brother Jürgen, his younger brother Kai, and he himself weren't allowed to become lifeguards because their father Peter (a sailor who, like many sailors, couldn't swim) was against it. In his Post-restaurateur era Jan is now finally working professionally in the nature of his beloved home island: Jan is a certified tour guide and national park partner. and explains to interested people from all directions on his tours the Wonders of the mudflats, salt marshes and West Beach.
Jan, what is a sandy beach made of?
John: Primarily from stones of the rivers of Northern Europe, which were washed and polished here over 1.000 million years until they were so fine that they bore the seal of quality. “Original Sylt sandy beach” received.
Since 1984, annual beach nourishment has been the most recognized method for protecting Sylt's west coast. So, is our beach still authentic?
John: Sure, sometimes the "new" sand from the seabed is a bit coarser - but just as real.
What is the condition of Sylt's beach as of May 2024?
John: It's impressive what has been created over the years in Rantum, for example, through sand replenishment, creating foredunes. At the same time, the beach level is currently very low in many places, which means that during storms the water quickly reaches the base of the dunes.
Which of all the creatures, large and small, on the West Beach fascinate you the most?
John: The Porpoise It's amazing. In a small area: the Shore Crab - courageous, resilient, and looks so beautifully archaic.
With all your knowledge about currents, tides, beach creatures, etc., what fascinates you most?
John: As long as I've been alive, I've never experienced two days on the West Beach that were the same. Interplay of wind, clouds, light, waves, smells and sounds Every day, a new, often surprising connection is formed.
Your favorite beaches?
John: It depends on what I have planned: for a beach day with family and friends, you can find us somewhere between Rantum and Westerland.
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Imke Wein