Słowiński National Park Łeba Dunes
Explore Europe's 'moving desert' at Słowiński National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with shifting sand dunes, coastal lakes, and rich wildlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Słowiński National Park Łeba Dunes
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Europe's 'moving desert' at Słowiński National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with shifting sand dunes, coastal lakes, and rich wildlife.
"The shifting sand dunes and wild coastal landscape never fail to impress."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and trails. Sturdy shoes are a must!
🦟 Mosquito Repellent Essential
Especially around sunset in spring/summer. Don't forget it!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shifting Sand Dunes
Łącka Dune
Europe's largest moving sand dunes, creating a surreal desert-like landscape. A must-see natural wonder.

Coastal Lakes
Łebsko and Gardno Lakes
Vast, serene lakes bordering the dunes, offering diverse ecosystems and birdwatching opportunities.
Wild Beaches
Baltic Sea Coast
Unspoiled stretches of coastline perfect for peaceful walks and enjoying the raw beauty of nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Shifting Sands
Wildlife & Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wife booked a trip to Leba, anything any good there? (we have a 9 y.o. and a toddler)
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and trails. Sturdy shoes are a must!
🦟 Mosquito Repellent Essential
Especially around sunset in spring/summer. Don't forget it!
To Slowinski National Park
Travelling NORTH coast Poland. Any non touristy recommendations? Hidden beaches/gems etc
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside the park, so come prepared.
🚶♀️ Explore from Rowy Side
For a quieter, more peaceful experience away from the main crowds.
Off The Beaten Path in Gdansk
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and trails. Sturdy shoes are a must!
🦟 Mosquito Repellent Essential
Especially around sunset in spring/summer. Don't forget it!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside the park, so come prepared.
🚶♀️ Explore from Rowy Side
For a quieter, more peaceful experience away from the main crowds.
🗺️ Trails Can Vanish
Be mindful of your path, especially in less-traveled areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique, desert-like shifting sand dunes and the raw, unspoiled beauty of the park's diverse landscapes. The tranquility and opportunity to see wildlife are frequently praised. However, some find the park can be crowded during peak season, and the limited facilities and potential for mosquitoes require preparation.
"I’ve visited Słowiński National Park many times from the Łeba side – the shifting sand dunes and wild coastal landscape never fail to impress. This time, I explored it from the Rowy side, and it felt much quieter and more peaceful, with far fewer people. Still, the beauty of nature is just as striking – raw, unspoiled, and unforgettable."
Paweł
"Great experience. There was nobody around, but I did meet two racoons, a doe, and a fox. In some parts of the park, one can easily get lost. The trail sometimes just vanishes 😁"
Aleksejs Ivashuk
"Located on Poland’s Baltic coast between Łeba and Rowy, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its unique shifting sand dunes, which can move up to 10 meters annually due to strong coastal winds. These dunes, some reaching heights of over 40 meters, create a desert-like landscape that is unparalleled in Europe.  
The park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including coastal lakes like Łebsko and Gardno, peat bogs, meadows, and forests. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, hosting over 260 bird species, such as the white-tailed eagle and black stork, as well as mammals like otters and seals.  
Visitors can explore the park via a network of hiking and cycling trails. A popular route is the 5.5 km path from the Rąbka entrance to the Łącka Dune, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The park also features observation towers and educational centers, providing insights into its unique environment. 
The best times to visit are late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant, and the park is less crowded. During peak summer months, the area can become busy, and accommodations may be limited. It’s advisable to bring essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate clothing, as facilities within the park are minimal. 
Słowiński National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ecological significance, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility away from urban life.
During spring and until autumn, come prepared to deal with mosquitos as they become highly active the hours around sunset."
R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is from Łeba. You can walk or take a tourist train/bus to the park entrance near Rąbka. From there, it's a 5.5 km walk to the Łącka Dune.
Yes, it's feasible as a day trip from Gdansk, though it will be a long day. You'll need to travel to Łeba first, which takes about 1.5-2 hours by car or bus.
While there are hiking and cycling trails, the primary way to reach the main dunes from the Rąbka entrance is by walking. Some areas might have limited local transport options, but it's best to be prepared for walking.
No, private vehicles are generally not allowed directly to the core dune areas to protect the environment. You'll need to park at designated areas and proceed on foot or via park-approved transport.
Yes, you can also access the park from Rowy, which is often described as a quieter and more peaceful entry point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Słowiński National Park. It's advisable to check the official park website for current pricing and purchase options.
The park is generally accessible year-round, but specific facilities or visitor centers might have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
While not always explicitly stated, purchasing tickets in advance online can save time, especially during peak season. Check the park's official website for online booking options.
Information on discounts can vary. It's recommended to inquire at the park entrance or check the official park website for any available concessions.
Cash is often preferred at park entrances, but it's wise to have some Polish Zloty on hand. Some locations might accept card payments, but this is not guaranteed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most popular route is the 5.5 km trail from the Rąbka entrance to the Łącka Dune. Be prepared for a walk, and enjoy the unique desert-like scenery.
While not always advertised, local guides might be available, especially from Łeba. For independent exploration, well-marked trails are provided, but be aware they can sometimes be faint.
The park is a haven for birds (over 260 species), including white-tailed eagles and black storks. You might also spot mammals like otters, seals, deer, foxes, and raccoons.
Yes, there are designated cycling trails within the park, offering a different way to explore the diverse landscapes beyond the dunes.
Yes, the park features observation towers that provide panoramic views of the dunes, lakes, and the Baltic Sea, enhancing your experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Facilities within the park are minimal. You'll find some basic kiosks or small eateries near the main entrances, especially in Łeba, but it's best to pack your own food and drinks.
Łeba offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and fish bars, serving local Polish cuisine and fresh seafood. It's a good place to eat before or after your park visit.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. Remember to take all your trash with you to help preserve the park's natural beauty.
You might find some very basic food stalls or ice cream vendors near the main access points to the dunes, but don't expect extensive options.
Expect traditional Polish dishes, hearty soups, pierogi, and plenty of fresh fish from the Baltic Sea.
📸 📸 Photography
The shifting sand dunes offer incredible, ever-changing landscapes. The coastline, lakes, and diverse flora also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting for the dunes and coastline. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and softer light.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, for commercial or professional shoots, you may need to contact park authorities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the sky and reduce glare on the sand. Protect your gear from sand and wind.
The crests of the larger dunes, like Łącka Dune, offer sweeping vistas. The transition from dunes to forest or lake also makes for compelling shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the tourist trains that operate from Łeba to the park entrance, which can make the journey more manageable for families. The open spaces and natural environment are great for kids to explore, but always supervise them closely, especially near the water or on the dunes. The chance to spot wildlife like birds or small mammals can also add an exciting educational element to the visit.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Opt for public transport to Łeba if possible, or carpool if traveling with others. Walking the trails from the park entrance to the dunes is free and offers the most immersive experience. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for potentially lower accommodation prices in Łeba and fewer crowds.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Explore the various trails to experience the different habitats, from coastal forests to lakeside marshes. The chance to see wildlife in its natural, undisturbed environment is a significant appeal. Remember to be quiet and respectful to increase your chances of sightings and to minimize your impact on the park's delicate balance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Shifting Sands
Exploring these dunes requires a good walk, often starting from the Rąbka entrance near Łeba. The most popular destination is the Łącka Dune, offering breathtaking panoramic views. It's crucial to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the sand can be hot and difficult to walk in otherwise. Be prepared for wind, which can make the sand sting your skin, so consider bringing a scarf or hat. The ever-changing patterns in the sand, sculpted by the wind, provide endless photographic opportunities.
While the dunes are the main draw, remember that the park is a delicate ecosystem. Stick to marked trails to avoid disturbing the fragile vegetation that helps stabilize the sand. The park's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status highlights its ecological importance, and responsible tourism is key to preserving this natural wonder for future generations.
A Haven for Wildlife and Diverse Ecosystems
Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to observe. Keep an eye out for mammals such as otters, seals, deer, foxes, and even raccoons, especially during quieter times of the day. The park's remote and unspoiled nature offers a chance to witness wildlife in its natural habitat. However, visitors should be aware that with abundant nature comes abundant insects, particularly mosquitoes, which can be quite active around dawn and dusk, especially during warmer months. Packing insect repellent is highly recommended.
The park's network of hiking and cycling trails allows visitors to explore these varied landscapes. Whether you're trekking through forests, skirting the lakes, or venturing towards the coast, the natural beauty is ever-present. The feeling of being far from urban life is palpable, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility and a chance to reconnect with the wild.
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