Top Attractions in Borkum

Borkum Essentials

Borkum, the largest of the East Frisian Islands, is defined by its deep maritime history and bracing North Sea climate. This selection highlights the island's dual lighthouses—the 19th-century New Lighthouse and the distinctive red-and-white Electric Lighthouse. Key cultural sites include the Heimatmuseum Dykhus, which explores the local whaling industry, and the historic whale jawbone fences. Visitors can explore the Borkumriff IV lightship, visit the Nordsee-Aquarium, or view the expansive dune landscape from the Ostland lookout point.

Borkum Essentials — Map

A

Heimatmuseum Dykhus

Located in a traditional Gulf house, this museum documents the island's whaling past and maritime history. It features a complete sperm whale skeleton and exhibits on local seafaring traditions and island life.

B

Neuer Leuchtturm (New Lighthouse)

Borkum Great Light, also known as Borkum Neuer Light, is an active lighthouse on the island of Borkum, Leer district, state of Lower Saxony…

Reinhard Dietrich / CC0

C

Kleiner Leuchtturm

Also known as the Electric Lighthouse, this red-and-white striped tower was built in 1891. It was the first lighthouse in Germany constructed from prefabricated cast-iron segments and served as a prototype for coastal navigation.

benutzer:Tola69 / CC-BY-SA-3.0

D

Borkumriff IV

A decommissioned lightship that served as a floating lighthouse in the North Sea from 1956 to 1988. It is now a museum ship docked in the harbor, offering tours of its engine room and living quarters.

E

Musikpavillon

A historic white bandstand situated on the beach promenade. Built in 1911, it hosts regular "Music by the Sea" performances where the spa orchestra plays against the backdrop of the North Sea.

F

Zaun aus Walkinnladen

A rare historical fence made from the jawbones of bowhead whales. These relics date back to the 18th century, reflecting the period when Borkum was a prominent center for the whaling industry.

G

Gezeitenland

A modern wellness and water park facility featuring indoor and outdoor pools, a large sauna area, and a FlowRider surfing simulator. The building's architecture is designed to resemble a ship's hull.

H

Nordsee-Aquarium Borkum

This aquarium showcases the marine biodiversity of the North Sea across multiple themed tanks. It focuses on local species such as dogfish, rays, crabs, and various North Sea fish.

I

Aussichtsdüne Ostland

An observation dune located on the eastern, more secluded part of the island. It provides panoramic views of the Wadden Sea, the North Sea, and the neighboring island of Juist.

Utausb / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Reformierte Kirche

A historic church building featuring an interior with a 19th-century organ and decorative elements reflecting the island's Protestant maritime community.

Other Lists

Best Beaches on Borkum Maritime Heritage & Views Outdoor Fun in Borkum