Hel Travel Guide

Plan your trip to the coastal town of Hel in Poland with this comprehensive travel guide, complete with information on attractions, food, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Hel

Hel is a small coastal town located in the Pomorskie region of Poland. Despite its size, Hel is an important tourist destination due to its location at the tip of a narrow peninsula surrounded by the Baltic Sea and the Bay of Puck. The town has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and its natural scenery is breathtaking. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore historical landmarks, or enjoy outdoor activities, Hel is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in Hel

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Naval Museum – Located in a restored 19th-century fort, the Naval Museum explores the history of Hel’s naval traditions and maritime culture. Exhibits include historical boats, diving equipment, and naval weaponry.

  • Fishing Museum – Hel has been a thriving fishing town since the Middle Ages, and the Fishing Museum explores the history of the town’s fishing industry and seafaring traditions. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about the fishing trade and even try their hand at netting fish.

  • Lighthouse – The Hel Lighthouse is a major historical landmark that dates back to the 1820s. Visitors can climb the narrow staircase to the top of the lighthouse for sweeping views of the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of Hel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Seal Sanctuary – The Hel Peninsula is home to a thriving population of grey seals. The Seal Sanctuary offers guided tours of seal colonies, educational exhibits about the biology and behavior of these creatures, and an opportunity to view these magnificent beasts up close.

  • Beaches – Hel has several beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, including the beach at the base of the Hel Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Nature Reserve – The Puck Bay Nature Reserve is a protected area that spans several miles of coastline near Hel. Visitors can hike, bike, or kayak through the reserve to enjoy the stunning natural scenery and view local wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hel

Hel has a number of excellent hiking and biking trails that showcase the town’s beautiful natural scenery. The most popular trails include:

  • The Hel Peninsula – A 35 km path that stretches along the entirety of the Hel Peninsula, offering stunning views of the sea, sand dunes, and forests.

  • The Coastal Trail – A 15 km trail that runs along the west coast of the peninsula, passing through small fishing villages and offering panoramic views of the sea.

Best Things to Do in Hel: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing Charters – Hel is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Fishing charters are available for visitors who want to try their hand at catching cod, flounder, and halibut.

  • Boat Tours – Several companies in Hel offer guided boat tours of the surrounding waters. Options include sightseeing tours, dolphin watching tours, and sunset cruises.

  • Water Sports – Hel is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Activities include windsurfing, kiteboarding, and kayaking.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hel

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Naval Museum and Fortifications
Day 2 Take a Walking Tour of the Hel Peninsula
Day 3 Go Sea Fishing
Day 4 Visit the Fishing Museum
Day 5 Take a Guided Boat Tour or Go Windsurfing
Day 6 Go Hiking or Biking in the Puck Bay Nature Reserve
Day 7 Relax on the Beach or Take a Day Trip to Gdansk

Food and Drink Scene of Hel

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked Fish – Hel is known for its smoked fish, including salmon, cod, and herring. These can be found at local markets and restaurants throughout the town.

  • Pierogi – Pierogi are a popular Polish dish of stuffed dumplings. While not unique to Hel, they can be found at many local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Vodka – Like much of Poland, vodka is a popular alcoholic beverage in Hel. Local varieties include Goldwasser, a traditional spiced liquor.

  • Piwo – Beer is also popular in Poland, with several local breweries producing delicious varieties.

Where to Stay in Hel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Baltic Sands – This hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding beaches and sea. The rooms are stylishly decorated and offer all modern amenities.

  • Helvetia – This family-run guesthouse offers comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere. Its location in the center of town makes it an ideal base for exploring the area.

  • Hostel Pomorska – This hostel offers affordable accommodations in a central location. It’s ideal for travelers on a budget or those looking for a more social experience.

What to Buy in Hel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Amber Jewelry – Amber is a popular souvenir in Poland, and Hel has several shops selling beautiful necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made from this semi-precious gemstone.

  • Smoked Fish – Hel’s smoked fish makes a great souvenir or gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Hel

  • Fishing Tradition – Hel has a rich maritime culture that is heavily influenced by its fishing tradition. Visitors can learn about this tradition by visiting the Fishing and Naval museums and attending local festivals and events.

  • Language – The official language of Poland is Polish, and while many people in Hel speak English, it’s worth learning a few basic phrases to show respect for the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Hel

The best time to visit Hel is during the summer, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with tourists and events. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall also offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is not a popular time to visit due to harsh weather conditions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hel

Do:

  • Try the local smoked fish.
  • Spend time at the beach.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Polish.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Litter on the beaches or in the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hel

Hel is a relatively safe town, but visitors should exercise caution when swimming in the sea or participating in outdoor activities like hiking or biking. Always follow local safety protocols and guidelines.

Health in Hel

Hel has several medical facilities, including a hospital, and visitors who require medical attention can access quality healthcare. Drinking tap water in Hel is safe, but visitors should follow good hygiene practices to avoid getting sick.

Getting to Hel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hel

The closest airport to Hel is Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport, which is located about 40 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Hel.

Bus Stations Near Hel

There are several bus stations in Hel, including the main bus station and several smaller stations located throughout the town. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to reach Hel from other parts of Poland.

Other Options

Another popular way to reach Hel is by taking the passenger ferry from Gdansk, which provides a scenic view of the surrounding coastal landscape.

How to Get Around in Hel

The best way to get around Hel is on foot or by bike. Bikes can be rented at several locations throughout the town, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Hel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gdansk – A historic city located about 35 km away from Hel, Gdansk is renowned for its architecture, museums, and cultural events.

  • Sopot – This seaside resort town is located about 20 km away from Hel and is known for its beautiful beaches, pier, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Hel is a hidden gem in Poland’s Pomorskie region, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore local museums and landmarks, or participate in outdoor activities and adventures, Hel has something to offer every type of traveler. So pack your bags, venture to Poland and explore the charms of this incredible town.

Museum of Fishery, former St Peter and Paul church. Museum of Fishery, former St Peter and Paul church. Naval mine in Museum of Coastal Defense Naval mine in Museum of Coastal Defense Lighthouse of Hel Lighthouse of Hel Wooden fisherman house from 19th century, today a restaurant. Wooden fisherman house from 19th century, today a restaurant.