Germany's Frisian Islands in the North Sea are reminiscent of the Cape Cod area in the U.S. or of coastal Scotland—the sea is rough, it's often foggy and there's a certain crispness in the air.
Lying 100 mi/160 km northwest of Hamburg, the islands are divided into two groups: the Eastern Frisians and the Northern Frisians. Both groups have tall sand dunes and long stretches of beach. The Eastern Frisians include the islands of Borkum and Norderney, which are the busiest, and Wangerooge, Langeoog and Juist, which are free of cars.
The Northern Frisians include Sylt, Fohr and Amrum. Sylt is by far the most popular island, especially with the high society of Hamburg. Amrum has one of the widest beaches and, like most of the islands, is open to nude sunbathing and swimming (known as FKK in German). The windy conditions and cold water might discourage some, though.
Another popular activity is taking walks out on the wattenmeer (mudflats) once the tide has receded. A pair of rubber boots and an experienced guide are required.
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