Strandby: Beach, Harbor and Local History

Strandby brings together beaches, maritime history and fishing. If you’re looking for a hotel in Strandby, first consider which of these aspects you want to shape your stay: coastal scenery, fishing, historic paths or harbor life. These different highlights offer practical pointers for planning your trip.

Beaches and coastal scenery

To the north and south of Strandby are white, family-friendly beaches with sand dunes. Strandby Nordstrand faces east and is designated as a bathing spot. At Strandby Nord, the Natura 2000 area extends 200 meters north of the beach. Here, bathing spots and a designated natural area meet along the coast.

The beach on the northern shore of the harbor has Blue Flag status; check the current designation before your trip. At Strandby Beach, the route from Nørrevej has toilets and a long ramp that provides access for strollers and wheelchairs. When choosing a stretch of beach, both the east-facing Nordstrand and the harbor location and access described here are practical points to consider.

Fishing and nature watching

Sea trout fishing is possible seasonally at the reef north of Strandby Nord. From the harbor shore, you can cast into deeper water without a boat and fish for cod, saithe, sea trout, mackerel, herring, plaice and garfish, among other species. The two fishing options therefore differ both in location and season: sea trout fishing at the reef is seasonal, while a wider range of fish species is mentioned for the harbor.

Another perspective is offered by the route through Bannerslund Skov. It includes a birdwatching tower with views of Hirsholmene and the area’s diverse birdlife. Bird enthusiasts will find a different focus here than at the beach or while fishing.

Paths and history

The Strandby-stien is about seven kilometers long and can be started at the parking lot by the “Hundeskoven” in Bannerslund, at the railway station or at the harbor. Along the route, information boards tell stories from Strandby. It also passes the site by the Elling Å where ships from the Iron Age were found.

The Strandby-stien also has information about the “Strandbyskatten.” Two young men found the treasure in 2012; it includes coins and other objects from the Viking Age. A walk through the historic district offers another way to see Strandby: you can explore the old town as a distinct part of the town, while the information boards and the site by the Elling Å highlight individual historical topics.

Harbor, fishing and getting here

Strandby Harbor was inaugurated in 1896. From the 1920s through the 1950s, numerous fishing boats from Strandby fished in the North Sea and landed their catches in Grimsby and Hull on England’s east coast. Strandby Fiskeauktion is one of the few remaining fish auctions on the east coast. Visitors can see many different kinds of fish and shellfish there. Fresh fish and shellfish are sold in the harbor directly from fishing boats, at the fish shops or at the auction, which takes place every morning at 7:00 a.m.

The marina also combines practical information with views: it has an observation tower with binoculars and views of Hirsholmene and Læsø. Train and bus connections are within a five-minute walk of Strandby Marina; check current services for your journey. Strandby Station is a small, unstaffed stop with bicycle parking and easy access to the platforms.

Discover more destinations: Skagen, Lyngså, Åsted, Kvissel, Østervrå, Hulsig, Bunken, Voerså

For the wider travel overview: Frederikshavn Municipality.