Attractions of the Vistula Spit: what is worth seeing during your holiday at the Vistula Lagoon

Is it possible for one place to offer both the bustle of beach parties and the absolute tranquility of nature reserves? The Vistula Spit proves it.

This 55-kilometer-long peninsula is a tourist phenomenon, where everything awaits you in 2025: from festivals and wild beaches to seal colonies and monuments with soul.

But this is only the beginning... Find out which towns are worth visiting and what really lies behind the golden strip of sand between the sea and the lagoon.

1. Sand, water, sun and relaxation

2. A guide to the key towns of the Vistula Spit

3. The best beaches of the Vistula Spit and natural treasures worth seeing

4. Active recreation and engineering marvels – Przekop and bicycle routes on the Vistula Spit

5. In the footsteps of history – the Stutthof Museum and other interesting places on the Vistula Spit

6. Calendar of the most important events on the Vistula Spit in 2025

7. Where to sleep and eat on the Spit? Recommended accommodations and restaurants for every budget.

8. How to get there and get around the Spit?

9. Why is the Vistula Spit the perfect choice for 2025?

Sand, water, sun and relaxation

Imagine a place where land is just a narrow, golden strip suspended between two worlds of water. On one side, the cool, salty waves of the Baltic Sea crash violently against the shore. On the other, the calm, sweet waters of the Vistula Lagoon gently caress the reeds.

This is the Vistula Spit, a 55-kilometer peninsula unique in Europe , which is more than just a geographical phenomenon.

It's a land of contrasts. Bustling resorts coexist with the almost absolute tranquility of nature reserves and wild beaches. 2025 promises to be a special year for rediscovering the Vistula Spit . The event calendar is once again bursting at the seams, and the Vistula Spit Canal has become a permanent fixture in the landscape as one of the Spit's fascinating attractions .

At the same time, timeless treasures—from amber to historic lanterns—are waiting to tell their stories. What makes the Vistula Spit famous is precisely this diversity, which delights at every turn.

A guide to the key towns of the Vistula Spit

The Vistula Spit is an archipelago of experiences, where each town has its own unique character. Your choice of base will determine the style of your entire vacation, so find out which Vistula Spit destination best suits you.

Krynica Morska – The vibrant heart of the Spit

Krynica Morska is the undisputed capital and most urbanized center of the Spit. It's an ideal destination for those seeking energy, entertainment, and a full range of tourist amenities.

• Port and Shipping: The bustling port is the largest on the Polish side of the Vistula Lagoon. Passenger ships depart regularly from here to Frombork, Tolkmicko, and Elbląg, offering scenic cruises. A cruise on the Vistula Lagoon is an absolute must!

• The Lighthouse : This is a true icon of Krynica Morska and one of the Spit's greatest attractions . To reach the top, you must climb 90 steps. The effort is worth it – the panorama reveals the spit's unique beauty, with the Baltic Sea on one side and the Vistula Lagoon on the other. In 2025, the Krynica Morska Lighthouse will be open from May 1st to September 30th.

• Events 2025: Summer in Krynica is a never-ending festival. The "Summer with Mierzeja" series will feature concerts by well-known bands, and the "Krynica Cabaret" will keep everyone in the mood. There will also be high-profile media events like "ESKA Summer Camp" and "Projekt Plaża TVN."

Stegna – Summer resort charm and historical depth

Stegna is the essence of a family resort, striking the perfect balance between beachside relaxation and historical depth. It's quieter than Krynica, but the Vistula Spit certainly offers plenty of tourist attractions .

• Beach and family attractions: Stegna's wide, sandy beach with extensive infrastructure is its main draw. There are slides for the little ones, and nearby there's a rope park and a corn maze.

• Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: A true architectural gem. Built in the 17th century, this half-timbered church houses extraordinary treasures: a unique painting suspended from the ceiling , a mysterious altar, a historic bell, and a famous organ from 1914.

• International Organ Festival: This internationally renowned event will celebrate its 43rd edition in 2025, attracting music lovers from across Poland and abroad.

Jantar – The Amber Capital and a Family Haven

Jantar's identity is inextricably linked to amber. It's a place where tradition, nature, and family fun come together in harmony.

• Traditions of amber craftsmanship: Jantar is one of the best places on the Polish coast to search for "Baltic gold", especially after strong storms.

• World Amber Fishing Championships: Jantar's flagship event. One of the most famous beaches on the Vistula Spit transforms into a competition arena, and spectators can admire the extraordinary skills of the fishermen.

• Family attractions: Jantar offers plenty of attractions for the whole family, including the Mini Zoo at the Jantar Farm. There's also a mini golf course and the historic Żuławy Commuter Railway .

Mikoszewo – An oasis of peace at the mouth of the Queen of Rivers

Mikoszewo is the western gateway to the Spit and a true oasis of peace. It's the perfect place for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle. It's described as a "very, very peaceful town" where "blissful silence" reigns.

• The Vistula Mouth and Ferry: Its location at the mouth of the Vistula Canal on the Baltic Sea defines the character of this village. The seasonal cable ferry to Świbno is not only a highlight but also a convenient shortcut from Gdańsk.

• Mewia Łacha Reserve: Mikoszewo's biggest attraction and the main base for exploring this unique place. It's the only place in Poland where a permanent colony of gray seals resides. The Mewia Łacha Nature Reserve is a must-see when visiting the Vistula Spit . Organized "Seal Cruises" allow for safe seal observation.

• Other attractions: It is worth paying attention to the historic narrow-gauge railway stop, the 19th-century arcaded house and the small, charming fishing port.

Kąty Rybackie – Fishing traditions and the kingdom of cormorants

Kąty Rybackie is an authentic fishing village that has managed to retain its maritime spirit. The aroma of freshly smoked fish hangs in the air.

• Port and Beach: The charming port on the Vistula Lagoon is the heart of the town. Across the Spit stretches a quiet, sandy beach , perfect for relaxing away from the crowds.

• Cormorant and Grey Heron Reserve: A key natural attraction. Established in 1957, this nature reserve protects the largest breeding colony of the great cormorant in Poland and one of the largest in Europe.

• Vistula Lagoon Museum: To understand the history of the region, you must visit this place. The exhibitions are dedicated to the history of fishing and shipbuilding. In 2025, admission will be free on Wednesdays.

• Fisherman's Day: On June 28-29, 2025, a traditional holiday will be held here with concerts and a ceremonial blessing of fishing boats.

Piaski (Nowa Karczma) – At the wild end of the Polish world

Piaski is the last bastion of civilization on the Polish Spit, an oasis of solitude called "the end of Poland" by locals. It is characterized by pristine nature and minimal infrastructure.

• Location and border: The settlement is located just 4 km from the border with the Russian Federation. Please note that this border is heavily guarded and cannot be crossed.

• Wild Beach: The main attraction is the long, wide, and almost deserted beach—an ideal place for contemplative walks and amber hunting. There's also a naturist beach nearby.

• History and name: The name "Piaski" comes from the shifting sand dunes, which in the past forced the inhabitants to relocate the settlement several times.

What the Vistula Spit offers is a full spectrum of experiences. On one end, we have the vibrant Krynica Morska, and at the other end of the scale, Piaski and the "very peaceful" Mikoszewo .

Stegna and Jantar lie between them, offering a balanced mix. Understanding this spectrum is key to a successful vacation.

The best beaches of the Vistula Spit and natural treasures worth seeing

The true treasure of the Spit is its unique natural beauty. Many tourists come here to relax on its sandy beaches and admire rare species in its reserves.

The most beautiful beaches of the Spit – a guide for everyone

Your choice of beach can define your entire vacation. Here are the best beaches on the Vistula Spit :

• Lively beaches (Krynica Morska, Stegna, Jantar): Full infrastructure, bars, and rentals. Perfect for families and those who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

• Quiet and fishing beaches (Kąty Rybackie, Mikoszewo): A more intimate and natural getaway. The beach in Kąty Rybackie is charming thanks to the fishing boats on the sand, while the one in Mikoszewo is wild and wide.

• Wild and intimate beach (Piaski): The most secluded and unspoiled beach, guaranteeing peace and quiet.

• Naturist beach: Between Krynica Morska and Piaski there is an official, well-marked beach for those who enjoy sunbathing without a swimsuit.

Comparison of beaches on the Vistula Spit

Beach (Location)	Characteristic	Infrastructure (Lifeguard, Bars, Rentals)	Main Advantages
Krynica Morska	Lively, family-friendly, party-oriented	Full (lifeguards, bars, slides, rentals)	Proximity to the city, rich entertainment offer, views
Stegna	Family-friendly, popular	Full (lifeguards, bars, playgrounds)	Wide, clean, ideal for families with children
Amber	Family, event	Full (lifeguards, catering, parking)	Very wide, amber fishing spot, mass events
Mikoszewo	Calm, natural	Limited (guarded swimming area)	Untouched nature, access through the forest, proximity to the mouth of the Vistula River
Fishing Corners	Quiet, fishing	Limited (guarded swimming area)	Intimate atmosphere, fishing boats on the beach, silence
Sands	Wild, intimate, secluded	None (guarded swimming areas nearby)	Absolute peace, untouched nature, proximity to the border
Sands (Naturist)	Naturist	Lack	Privacy, freedom, beautiful scenery

Breathtaking viewpoints

• Camel's Hump: This is the highest permanent dune in Europe (49.5 meters above sea level). Its greatest asset is the ability to simultaneously admire the open Baltic Sea and the tranquil Vistula Lagoon.

  
  

• Pirate's Hill: A forested hill with a wooden observation tower. It's a paradise for birdwatchers and a great vantage point overlooking the picturesque Vistula Lagoon . The legend of the Old Pirate's treasure adds an aura of mystery to this place. The view from Pirate's Hill is one of those experiences not to be missed.

In the embrace of protected nature

• Vistula Spit Landscape Park: Protects a unique landscape of dunes, pine forests and rich fauna.

• Mewia Łacha Reserve: A key site for the conservation of wetland birds and seals, it is the only place in Poland where gray seals can be observed year-round.

• Kąty Rybackie Nature Reserve: Famous for its huge cormorant colony , the largest in Poland and one of the largest in Europe.

Active recreation and engineering marvels – Przekop and bicycle routes on the Vistula Spit

The Spit is also an ideal place for active leisure enthusiasts, offering excellent trails, water sports and fascinating technical monuments.

On two wheels and on foot – the best trails of the Spit

• Cycling routes on the Vistula Spit ( R10 / Velo Baltica ): This is the main cycling artery on the Polish coast. The section on the Vistula Spit is exceptionally picturesque, flat, and safe, making it ideal for families.

• The Amber Trail (E9): The main long-distance hiking trail that will take you to the most important attractions of the region: from the coastal forests to the Stutthof Museum.

Water madness – from leisurely cruises to adrenaline

• Vistula Lagoon Cruises: The calm waters of the lagoon are ideal for sailing. Regular boat trips run from Krynica Morska to Frombork and Elbląg.

• Water sports: The Vistula Lagoon is a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts. Krynica Morska is home to the "Windsport" school, which offers lessons and equipment rentals.

Technical heritage: railways, canals and bridges

• Żuławy Commuter Railway : A journey on this historic narrow-gauge railway is a sentimental experience. The route connects Nowy Dwór Gdański with Mikoszew, Jantar, Stegna, and Sztutowo. It's worth remembering its dual history – as a tourist attraction and as a silent witness to the transports to the Stutthof concentration camp.

• The Vistula Spit Canal: The latest marvel of Polish engineering and a popular tourist attraction , it provides Poland with free access from the port of Elbląg to the Baltic Sea. It can be admired from vantage points or during special cruises.

In the footsteps of history – the Stutthof Museum and other interesting places on the Vistula Spit

The Spit also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Here are some interesting places worth seeing.

Monuments you must see

• Lighthouse in Krynica Morska: A symbol of the region and one of the best viewpoints.

• Church in Stegna: a 17th-century architectural gem and an important cultural center, hosting the renowned International Organ Festival.

Places of memory and education

• Stutthof Museum in Sztutowo : A place of immense historical significance that demands reflection and respect. The former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp is now a state museum. Admission is free . A visit in 2025 will have a special significance, as it marks the 80th anniversary of the camp's liberation.

• Regional Museums:

  • Vistula Lagoon Museum (Kąty Rybackie): A branch of the National Maritime Museum that tells the history of fishing and boatbuilding.

  • Private Amber Museum (Stegna): Created with passion, it teaches how to distinguish real amber from imitations.

Calendar of the most important events on the Vistula Spit in 2025

To make the most of your stay, it is worth reading the practical information for the 2025 season.

Date	Event Name	Location	Character
June 28-29	Fisherman's Day	Kąty Rybackie, Port on the Lagoon	Culture, Family
June 28 - August 24	Exhibition of Kinder figurines	Stegna, GOK	Family, Exhibition
July 1 - August 26	Summer with the Spit	Krynica Morska	Music, Entertainment
July (moving dates)	World Amber Fishing Championships	Jantar, Beach	Sports, Tradition
July - August	XLIII International Organ Festival	Stegna, Church	Music, Culture
July 17 - August 14	Open-Air Cinema	Various locations (Jantar, Stegna)	Culture, Entertainment
July 23	Krynica Cabaret	Krynica Morska, Yacht Port	Entertainment
August 2-3	ESKA Summer Camp	Krynica Morska, Yacht Port	Music, Entertainment
August 15-17	TVN Beach Project	Krynica Morska, Beach	Entertainment, Media
September 20	Roast Boar Festival	Krynica Morska, Yacht Port	Culinary, Entertainment

Where to sleep and eat on the Spit? Recommended accommodations and restaurants for every budget.

• Hotels & SPA: Tristan Hotel & SPA (Kąty Rybackie), La Perla (Krynica Morska).

• Guesthouses and Guest Rooms: PIONOW Rooms and Apartments (Krynica Morska), Omega (Jantar).

• Cottages and Campsites: Summer Cottages at the Hosts (Stegna), Cottages and Villa Daria (Jantar).

• Agritourism: Year-round room rental Agrotourism Janikowo (Stegna).

Flavors of the Spit – a culinary guide to the region

Spit cuisine is the kingdom of fish. Be sure to try the fried cod , aromatic fish soup, and smoked delicacies.

• Recommended Restaurants and Bars on the Spit:

  
  

  1. Fishing Corners: Basia's Fish Bar (iconic cod), Kobaltowa Restaurant .

  2. Sands: For Wings (famous for its pike-perch), Kawiarnia na Piaskach (legendary cheesecake).

  3. Stegna: Pączuś Maciek (donuts with rose), Lech Fish Frying House .

  4. Amber: Rejs Restaurant , Inn at the Mill .

  5. Outside the Spit: It is worth going to nearby Żelichów to the Mały Holender restaurant for traditional Żuławy cuisine.

How to get there and get around the Spit?

When planning to reach the Vistula Spit by car , be sure to take the main road no. 501, which can be congested during peak season. An alternative is public transport.

Available transport options on the Vistula Spit and nearby

Type of Transport	Key Information (Route, Time, Price 2025)	Seasonality
Car	Main road no. 501; traffic jams possible during the season	Year-round
PKS bus	Line 870 from Gdańsk to Krynica Morska	Year-round
"Świbno-Mikoszewo" ferry	Shortens the route from Gdańsk by 23 km; 5-minute cruise; Prices: Walking 5 PLN, Bicycle 10 PLN, Motorcycle 15 PLN	Seasonal (from the end of April)
Żuławy Commuter Railway	Route: Nowy Dwór Gd. ↔ Sztutowo ↔ Stegna ↔ Jantar ↔ Mikoszewo	Seasonal (May - September)
Water Tram (Lagoon)	Cruises from Krynica Morska to Frombork, Tolkmicko, Elbląg; e.g. to Tolkmicko: PLN 30 (reduced)	Seasonal
Cruise to the Przekop	From Gdynia; BOAT&BIKE service; round-trip price: PLN 250 (regular), PLN 200 (reduced)	Seasonal
Melex cars	Local transport to the beach in tourist destinations	Seasonal

Why is the Vistula Spit the perfect choice for 2025?

The Vistula Spit in 2025 is a complete destination. It allows you to experience several holidays in one trip: from a classic beach vacation, through nature contemplation, to an active adventure and time travel. This is exploring the Spit's attractions at their finest.

This place will satisfy everyone's needs. Families with children will find safe , sandy beaches here. Those seeking tranquility will find it in Piaski. History buffs will be delighted by the monuments.

And everyone, without exception, will succumb to the magic of this narrow strip of land, where the mighty breath of the sea meets the gentle whisper of the lagoon. In 2025, this land awaits rediscovery.