Our Trip to Norddeich, Germany

As a parent, planning a holiday can feel more like preparing for a military mission than a relaxing getaway. Between finding a place that’s safe and fun for kids, packing for every possible weather condition, and making sure the dog is welcome too—it’s no small feat. But after our recent family trip to Norddeich, Germany, I’ve realized that with the right destination, a holiday can truly be a joyful escape for the whole family.

Here’s how we planned our trip—and why Norddeich turned out to be the perfect spot for kids, parents, and even our four-legged family member.

Step 1: Choose a Family-Friendly Destination

When we looked into destinations, Norddeich quickly stood out. Nestled on the North Sea coast, this small town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and incredible family amenities. It has a rare combination of child-friendly infrastructure and dog-friendly spaces, which made it a perfect fit for us.

What we loved most:

Numerous playgrounds scattered throughout the town, including right by the beach Clean, safe walking paths perfect for strollers or scooters Fenced dog-friendly beach where dogs can run leash-free and play in the water

And a real highlight for little nature lovers: The Seal Station (Seehundstation Norddeich). This small rescue and education center lets kids watch live seal feedings and learn about the local marine wildlife through fun, hands-on exhibits. Our child was fascinated—not just entertained, but genuinely connected to nature in a new way.

Step 2: Include Adventure and Flexibility

One of the most exciting parts of the trip was taking a ferry ride to the nearby East Frisian islands, like Norderney or Juist. The ferries are easy to board with kids and pets, and the ride itself becomes part of the fun. It’s an opportunity to explore more nature, enjoy a picnic, or just let the kids watch the seagulls while you enjoy the sea breeze.

Closer to town, we also discovered the coastal bike trail—and yes, E-bike rentals are available right by the beach. What made this special for us was the family-friendly e-bikes equipped with large front baskets (Körbe) where we could safely seat our child and our dog together. Riding along the coast to the next village became an adventure all of us could enjoy.

Tip: Always bring a change of clothes for the kids. Sand and water are irresistible!

Step 3: Plan for Rest (Not Just Activities)

While it’s tempting to fill the schedule with things to do, we found that slower mornings and flexible afternoons gave everyone the breathing room they needed. We rented a cozy holiday apartment with a small kitchen, which made meal prep easy and gave our son space to unwind with his toys after a day of adventures.

If you’re traveling with a dog, look for accommodations that allow pets and have a small yard or balcony—it makes a big difference!

Step 4: Let the Kids Take the Lead Sometimes

One afternoon, we let our son choose what to do—and he picked his favorite playground by the beach. We stayed there for hours, building sandcastles, watching kites, and just enjoying each other’s company. It reminded me that kids don’t need fancy plans—just space to play and our full attention.

Final Thoughts

Planning a family holiday doesn’t have to be stressful. With destinations like Norddeich, where nature, comfort, and kid-friendly design meet, you can create memories that are joyful, not exhausting.

If you’re looking for a calm and charming coastal destination in Germany—where kids run free, dogs wag their tails, and parents finally exhale—Norddeich might be your next perfect escape.

Please share your destinations here with us.