Europe’s seaside resort nicknamed ‘Cold Hawaii’ – with cheap flights and empty beaches
IF you love surfing but can’t quite make it as far as Hawaii, there is a place in Europe that might be just as good.
Denmark’s fishing village of Klitmøller has been transformed into a prime surf location in the last few years, leading to its nickname “Cold Hawaii”.
The stretch of coast in North Jutland in Denmark gained the moniker thanks to its wind conditions making it a prime surfing location.
There are 31 other surf spots in this part of Denmark, including places like Agger and Hanstholm.
The nickname of Cold Hawaii came from a 1994 windsurfing documentary, the BBC reports.
Located in rural Jutland, Klitmøller hosts several surf competitions throughout the year like the Cold Hawaii PWA World Cup where 32 surfers compete for the cup.
Its most famous spot is known as the Reef where surfers can test out their skills on more challenging waves.
Beginners can stick to the more sheltered bays that provide more manageable conditions.
And lining the beachfront are surf shops, co-working sites and cafes, and even some saunas to warm up in.
Local Casper Steinfath said that while surfing is a huge part of the area, it still remains relatively quiet.
He told GQ: “My dad says it reminds him of what California was like back in the 60s and 70s. It still feels untamed.”
Just don’t expect the warmer weather of Hawaii – Denmark reaches around 2-3C in winter, while Hawaii is closer to 24C.
If you’re a surfer, the best time to visit Cold Hawaii is between September and November, as this is when the best waves are.
Even though surfing is the area’s main draw, there are plenty of other outdoor activities for holidaymakers to try, including kite surfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Fishing is another popular activity in the area.
For holidaymakers who prefer to stay on land, there’s also the nearby Thy National Park that’s home to hiking and cycling trails.
What it's like to explore Cold Hawaii
The Sun’s Jacob Lewis previously visited – here’s what it was like.
My home for the weekend is Niels Juel, a thatched-roofed fish restaurant and B&B with panoramic sea views and a wood-burning hot tub, run by Jesper and Helle Birch.
Taking full advantage of the waves is Westwind, a surf school and shop staffed by absurdly chiselled, sun-tanned, blonde instructors.
I’m paired up with Kristine. A confident teacher who speaks perfect English, she helps me catch a few waves, while I whine about feeling seasick in the choppy conditions.
After a mouthwatering seafood platter, Jesper, a friendly face with an easy laugh, cracks open the homemade herbal akvavit.
Birch For Homesickness or Hawthorn For Seasickness — I go for an extra measure of the latter.
The locals were so warm I felt I’d made friends with the entire town.
B&Bs are the most popular form of overnight accommodation in the area, with stays starting from £62 per night, based on two people sharing a room.
Brits can fly to Copenhagen from a number of UK cities such as Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham and London.
Klitmøller located is then a four-hour drive from Copenhagen.
Denmark is home to plenty of other lesser-known stretches of sand, including Hornbæk, which is located within the Danish Riviera in North Sealand.
The seaside town of Hornbæk is just under an hour away from Copenhagen (Denmark’s capital city), and it is also home to the largest beach on the Danish Riviera.
Hornbæk Beach is a Blue Flag beach with stretches of soft sand.
My View: A Trip to Denmark's Happiest City
Last September, travel reporter Hope Brotherton visited Aarhus, Denmark’s happiest city.
She wrote: “It’s easy to see why it’s the world’s happiest. The city is home to quaint cobbled streets, winding waterways and cosy independent shops, which make it both easy-going and vibrant.
And it’s the city’s vibrant atmosphere, one where you can’t help but smile, that has earned it the moniker of the “city of smiles”.
During my trip, I challenged myself to enjoy a two-night break in Aarhus for just £250, so I know how to explore the city on a budget.
Unfortunately, there are some things that just can’t be done on the cheap, like visiting the city’s top attractions.
Den Gamle By is the world’s oldest living museum, making it one of most unique attractions in the Danish city.
I spent around two hours exploring every nook and cranny of the re-constructed buildings, some of which date back to the 1800s.
There’s also ARoS Art Museum, which dominates the Aarhus Skyline thanks to its rainbow walkway that sits on top of the gallery.
There are plenty of free attractions in the city too, including a stroll along the Salling Rooftop — a network of wooden walkways and green spaces built on top of a department store.
The Cultural Production Center Godsbanen, Aarhus Cathedral and Aarhus Concert Hall are also all free to enter.
Meanwhile, this affordable city break destination has been tipped to be big this year.
And these cheap city break deals are on offer this year.