Hel Travel Guide

Today in Poland: Whit Sunday (19 May) More

The day of Pentecost, commonly known as Pentecost, is a movable holiday in Christianity and falls 49 days (7 weeks) from the Sunday of the Lord's Resurrection. It is one of the most important liturgical holidays, celebrated over two days (especially in Protestant countries, e.g. in some federal states of Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Denmark). In Poland, the first day of Pentecost is a day off from work.

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Hel, located in the Pomeranian region of Poland, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a unique coastal experience. Situated on a picturesque peninsula between the Baltic Sea and the Bay of Puck, this charming city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.

One of the main attractions in Hel is its stunning beaches. With crystal-clear waters and pristine golden sands, Hel is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Whether you prefer to relax on the beach, take a refreshing swim, or try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing, Hel has it all. The wide range of beachside cafes and bars also provide a perfect setting to enjoy a refreshing drink or indulge in some delicious seafood.

Aside from its natural beauty, Hel is also known for its fascinating history. The city played a significant role during World War II and was home to a German naval base. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the military infrastructure, including bunkers and fortifications, which serve as a reminder of the city's turbulent past. The Hel Peninsula Museum offers a deeper insight into the region's history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that depict the area's maritime heritage.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Slowinski National Park is a must. Just a short distance from Hel, this unique coastal park is famous for its shifting sand dunes. Explore the vast sandy landscapes, hike through the pine forests, or take a boat trip to discover the park's diverse flora and fauna. The Slowinski National Park is also home to a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Hel is a vibrant cultural hub. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and crafts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending concerts, exhibitions, or even trying their hand at traditional crafts such as pottery or amber jewelry making.

Alternative names: Established: XII centuryTown rights: 1351 (673 years ago)Population: 4.1 thous. (2019)Area: 8.21 mi²Elevation: 3 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 54°36'17"N, 18°48'10"E

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PomeranianPoland

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Hel Top Attractions

Hel Attractions - What to See and Explore

Hel offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Plaża Cypel, Hel Lighthouse, Góra Szwedów Lighthouse, Seal Sanctuary in Hel. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

54°35'34"N • 18°48'45"E
Plaża Cypel
Beach
Storied historic lighthouse with views
Hel Lighthouse
Hel Lighthouse is an active lighthouse in the town of Hel, Pomeranian Voivodeship in Poland. It is situated at the eastern tip of the Hel Peninsula and guides ship traffic into Gdańsk Bay and the Bay of Puck.
Lighthouse
Góra Szwedów Lighthouse
Góra Szwedów Lighthouse is a deactivated lighthouse on the coast of the Baltic Sea in the administrative region of the town of Hel, Puck County, Pomeranian Voivodeship, in Poland. The lighthouse is located on the Hel Peninsula, on Góra Szwedów, a 19-metre-high hill.

Zoo
Seal Sanctuary in Hel
The Seal Sanctuary in Hel is a public aquarium in the town of Hel at the Polish seaside of the Baltic Sea.
54°36'19"N • 18°48'8"E
Museum of Fishery
Museum
54°36'13"N • 18°48'12"E
Checz Kaszubska - ZKP
Museum
54°36'32"N • 18°47'50"E
Dom Morświna
Natural history museum • Museum • Children's museum
54°35'46"N • 18°48'40"E
Stanowisko Ogniowe nr 3 31 BAN im. H. Laskowskiego
Museum
54°36'31"N • 18°48'3"E
Kościół pw. Bożego Ciała
Church
54°36'19"N • 18°48'8"E
Dąb św. Franciszek - Pomnik Przyrody
Tree
Specialty museum • Museum • History museum
Museum of Coastal Defense
Coastal Defense Museum of the "Friends of Hel" Association - a museum located in Hel, opened in spring 2006, its regulations approved by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage Bogdan Zdrojewski on February 27, 2009.
54°36'26"N • 18°47'58"E
Seal Sanctuary
Nature and wildlife • Park • Zoo
54°37'23"N • 18°48'6"E
Gun Battery Schleswig-Holstein
Museum
54°36'7"N • 18°48'0"E
Basen Jachtowy
Sailing • Marina
54°37'21"N • 18°47'40"E
Wieża kierowania ogniem baterii Schleswig-Holstein
Museum
54°36'31"N • 18°47'51"E
Park Wydmowy
Park
54°36'18"N • 18°48'3"E
Przystań szybkich łodzi motorowych FORMOZA RIB
Sailing • Marina
54°36'16"N • 18°48'4"E
Formoza RIB
Sailing • Marina
54°37'43"N • 18°47'39"E
Muzeum Kolei Helskich
Museum

Things to See and Do in Hel by Category

Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Hel.

Active

Dive Land
Hel
Diving
Baza Nurkowa Diving Baltic
Hel
Diving
Baza Nurkowa HEL
Hel
Diving

Other categories

Museum

Day trips

Hel – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Hel, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Malbork Castle (Malbork), National Maritime Museum (Gdańsk), Oliwa Cathedral (Gdańsk).

40 milesS
History museum in 14th-century fortress
Malbork Castle, Malbork
Malbork Castle, a colossal medieval fortress in the city of Malbork, Poland, stands as a testament to the grandeur of historical European architecture. This Gothic castle, constructed by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century, was originally named Marienburg, which...
18 milesS
Museum, Specialty museum
National Maritime Museum, Gdańsk
The National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk, Poland, is a beacon for those intrigued by the maritime history and heritage of the Baltic Sea. Situated in the heart of the historic port city, this museum offers visitors a deep dive into Poland's intimate relationship with...
17 milesSW
Historic cathedral with a giant organ
Oliwa Cathedral, Gdańsk
Nestled in the verdant heart of Gdańsk, Poland, the Oliwa Cathedral serves as a beacon of historical and architectural splendor. Officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of The Holy Trinity, Blessed Virgin Mary and St.
12 milesSW
Fresh and seawater aquarium in 1970s space
Akwarium Gdyńskie, Gdynia
Nestled in the heart of the seaside city of Gdynia, Poland, the Akwarium Gdyńskie stands as a beacon of marine education and conservation. This captivating aquarium, a division of the National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, offers a deep dive into the underwater...
19 milesS
Vast, Gothic-style brick landmark
St. Mary's Church, Gdańsk
St. Mary's Church, towering majestically over the cityscape of Gdańsk, Poland, is a monumental testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Known as Bazylika Mariacka or St. Mary's Basilica, this brick Gothic church is not only a significant...

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Best Time To Visit Hel

Learn when is the best time to travel to Hel weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Hel?

The top attractions to visit in Hel are:

What is the best time to visit Hel?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.