What to Do in Denmark’s Surf Capital of Klitmøller
Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 100, 4.5 mm, f/2.8, 1/40 s)
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Klitmøller, nicknamed “Cold Hawaii,” transformed from a traditional fishing village into Denmark’s surfing capital. Once sustained by trade and fishing, its winds and waves now attract surfers from around the globe. The town has become a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from kitesurfing to coastal hiking. With its mix of rugged nature and vibrant surf culture, Klitmøller is a unique seaside destination in northern Jutland.
We headed towards Klitmøller after stopping by in nearby Løkken, on the danish coastline. We were looking for a place to have lunch at and to maybe take a swim. We didn’t end up swimming but we had our lunch on the beach here and did some very fun people watching.
The town of Klitmøller is rather small but is a very beloved surf spot in Denmark which was very apparent by plethora of surf related activities that were happening around us. I myself have tried to surf on a few occasions and I must admit that being here made me miss those experiences while I was in South Africa and Portugal.
My priorities are a little different now with a full time job and as a partner and father, so a return to surfing for me will have to wait a little longer. But overall, whether you intend on surfing or not, being at Klitmøller is a special feeling and it is a place not to be missed!
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Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 100, 4.5 mm, f/2.8, 1/40 s)
How to get to Klitmøller
Fly - The nearest major airport to Klitmøller is Aalborg Airport (AAL), around 150 km northeast of the town. Aalborg Airport connects to domestic cities and key European destinations, making it convenient for international travelers heading to Denmark’s surfing capital.
From Aalborg Airport to Klitmøller:
Car Rental - Car rental services are available at Aalborg Airport. Driving to Klitmøller takes about 2 hours via E45 and Route 26, offering scenic views of North Jutland’s coast and countryside along the way. Renting a car is ideal for surfers or those who want to explore nearby villages and beaches.
Bus - Take Bus 960X from Aalborg to Thisted, then transfer to Bus 313 to Klitmøller.
Duration: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes from Aalborg Airport
Cost: Around 150–180 DKK one way
Frequency: 2–3 times daily, depending on season
Tickets: Purchase onboard or via the Rejseplanen app
Train - There is no direct train to Klitmøller. Travelers can take a train from Aalborg to Thisted, then continue by Bus 313.
Duration: ~3.5–4 hours total
Cost: ~180–200 DKK
Tickets: Purchase via DSB or Rejseplanen
Taxi - Taxis are available outside Aalborg Airport.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: Around 1,500–1,800 DKK
Payment: Cash or card accepted
Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 100, 4.5 mm, f/2.8, 1/40 s)
Here is a list of places that are worth seeing in Klitmøller, Denmark:
Cold Hawaii (Surfing Area)
Cold Hawaii is Denmark’s surfing paradise, located in Klitmøller along the wild North Sea coast. With consistent winds and powerful waves, the area has earned an international reputation as one of Europe’s top surf destinations. Surfers from across the globe come here for competitions and year-round wave riding, while beginners can join local surf schools. Beyond surfing, the area’s rugged dunes and dramatic seascapes create a truly unique coastal atmosphere.
National Park Thy
National Park Thy is Denmark’s first national park, stretching across a vast landscape of dunes, heathland, lakes, and forests. Often called "Denmark’s wilderness," the park is home to red deer, rare birds, and an unspoiled coastline perfect for hiking and biking. Visitors can explore marked trails or enjoy peaceful moments along the windswept beaches. The park is a highlight of any trip to Klitmøller, blending raw natural beauty with a sense of quiet solitude.
Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 100, 4.5 mm, f/2.8, 1/40 s)
Vorupør Museum
Vorupør Museum tells the story of coastal life in Northern Jutland, focusing on fishing traditions and the daily struggles of a community shaped by the sea. Exhibits include fishing boats, tools, and stories of shipwrecks that highlight the harsh realities of life on the North Sea. The museum also explores how the region transitioned from a fishing hub to a tourism and surfing destination. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone wanting to connect with the cultural roots of Klitmøller.
Stenbjerg Landingsplads
Stenbjerg Landingsplads is a historic fishing site with whitewashed fishermen’s huts that have been carefully preserved. In the past, fishing boats were dragged directly onto the beach here, and the area still reflects that traditional way of life. Today, the restored huts house exhibitions and serve as a cultural landmark within National Park Thy. Visitors can walk the beach, explore the heritage displays, and experience the charm of this authentic fishing settlement.
Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 400, 105 mm, f/9.0, 1/1250 s)
Bunkermuseum Hanstholm
The Bunkermuseum Hanstholm is Northern Europe’s largest WWII bunker complex, offering a dramatic look into Denmark’s wartime history. Built by the German military as part of the Atlantic Wall, the site includes massive concrete fortifications, tunnels, and gun batteries. Visitors can explore exhibitions on life during the occupation and see how soldiers lived in these stark conditions. It’s both a sobering and fascinating destination that reveals the strategic importance of this rugged coastline.
Agger Tange
Agger Tange is a narrow strip of land that forms part of Thy National Park, separating the North Sea from the Limfjord. This unique natural area is known for its wetlands and rich birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors often spot migratory species, seals resting on the sandbanks, and stunning views over the water. The long sandy beaches also make it a beautiful spot for walking or cycling in a peaceful, untouched setting.
Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 100, 4.5 mm, f/9.0, 1/40 s)
Hanstholm Lighthouse
Hanstholm Lighthouse has stood as a beacon over the rough North Sea since 1843, guiding ships along Denmark’s treacherous northwest coast. Perched on a high cliff, the lighthouse offers sweeping views of the surrounding dunes, heathland, and ocean. Visitors can climb the tower, explore the keeper’s house, and learn about the maritime history of the area. Its location next to the vast WWII bunker complex adds to its historical significance.
Vandet Lake
Vandet Lake is a scenic freshwater lake just east of Klitmøller, surrounded by heathland and forests. It’s a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and fishing, offering a peaceful contrast to the roaring waves of the North Sea. Walking and cycling trails around the lake make it a great spot for outdoor recreation. With its calm waters and natural beauty, Vandet Lake is a favorite for families and nature lovers alike.
Klitmøller, Denmark (ISO 100, 4.5 mm, f/2.8, 1/40 s)
