Nordwestküste

Nordwestküste is a term used for the northwestern coastal region of Germany along the North Sea. It covers the coastal areas of the states of Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony and includes the East Frisian and North Frisian island groups. The coastline extends roughly from the Ems estuary in the west to the Elbe estuary near Cuxhaven in the east, and it is defined by wide tidal flats, dunes, and a system of dikes and polders.

The landscape is dominated by the Wadden Sea, a vast intertidal zone that is exposed at low tide and hosts a rich ecology of birds, shellfish, and migratory species. The area comprises mainland coast as well as the East Frisian Islands (such as Borkum, Juist, Norderney, Langeoog, Spiekeroog, and Wangerooge) in Lower Saxony, and the North Frisian Islands (including Sylt, Föhr, and Amrum) in Schleswig-Holstein. Towns along the coast range from port cities to spa towns and fishing villages, with major ports such as Cuxhaven, Bremerhaven, and Wilhelmshaven.

Economy and culture of the Nordwestküste are strongly linked to maritime activities and tourism. Fishing, shipping, and offshore wind energy are important economic sectors, while visitors are drawn to seaside resorts, beaches, mudflat hiking (Wattwanderung), and the historic maritime heritage. Frisian culture, regional architecture, and coastal traditions influence local life across the area.

Conservation and heritage are central to the region, with the Wadden Sea recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Germany administers two national parks along the coast: Nationalpark Niedersächsisches Wattenmeer and Nationalpark Schleswig-Holsteinisches Wattenmeer, protecting the tidal flats and their biodiversity.

Transport links include ferries to the islands and road and rail networks connecting coastal towns, ports, and airports to inland Germany.