Otterndorf

Otterndorf calls itself "the family lagoon" — an 8-hectare lido with a freshwater lake, sandy beach, watersports, camping, and a motorhome marina, all between the Elbe estuary and the Wadden Sea. For families with young children who'd rather skip tidal-flat risks, this is stress-free seaside. In the centre: charming brick buildings around the "Stadtkroog", the Heinrich-Heine House, the Mehlbeerenturm park. Get there: A20 exit Drochtersen or NordWestBahn from Cuxhaven (10 min).