Erik's Tail (Eriks Hale Peninsula, Ærø)
A narrow ribbon of sand lined with colourful huts, Erik's Tail puts you between two seas at once: sheltered lagoon on one side, open Baltic waves on the other.
Erik's Tail, known locally as Eriks Hale, is a narrow sandy peninsula just outside Marstal on the Danish island of Ærø. Here a string of colourful wooden beach huts lines a tongue of sand between two very different seas: the sheltered, shallow “Little Sea” and the wilder Baltic “Big Sea”. It is a classic South Funen Archipelago scene, ideal for safe family swimming on one side, bracing dips and waves on the other, and slow coastal walks with big skies, sea breezes and wide horizons.
A brief summary to Erik's Tail
- DK
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring water shoes for comfortable wading on the Little Sea side, where shells and small stones can dot the shallow seabed.
- Pack layers: the breeze across the exposed peninsula can feel cool even on sunny days, especially outside high summer.
- If you plan to swim on the Baltic side, check local flags or information boards for current conditions before heading into deeper water.
- For photographs of the colourful huts, aim for early morning or late afternoon when light is softer and shadows are longer.
- Carry your own snacks and drinking water; facilities are limited directly on the tail, with more options back in central Marstal.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Local walk from central Marstal
From central Marstal, Erik's Tail is typically reached on foot in about 15–25 minutes, depending on your starting point and pace. The route follows mostly flat, paved or compacted paths and is suitable for most walkers, though those with limited mobility may prefer to take a break along the way. The final approach onto the peninsula is on sand, which can be softer and uneven.
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Bicycle from Marstal and nearby parts of Ærø
Cycling from Marstal to Erik's Tail generally takes 5–10 minutes, using local roads and paths that are largely flat and bike‑friendly. Many visitors use rental bicycles available in Marstal and other towns on Ærø, with day rates commonly around 80–150 DKK depending on type and season. Bicycles must be left at the edge of the sandy section, as riding on the narrow beach itself is not practical and can disturb other users.
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Bus and short walk from other Ærø towns
From towns such as Ærøskøbing or Søby, regional buses connect to Marstal in roughly 30–60 minutes, depending on departure point and timetable. Single tickets on island buses are typically in the range of 25–50 DKK per journey, with reduced services in the evening and on some public holidays. From the bus stop in Marstal, allow around 15–25 minutes on foot along level streets and paths to reach the start of Erik's Tail.
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Car access within Ærø
Driving from other parts of Ærø to Marstal usually takes 20–40 minutes, reflecting the island’s compact size and modest speed limits. There is car access to areas close to Erik's Tail, with informal parking near the beach approach; spaces can be limited in peak summer and on bright weekends. There is no fee specifically to access the peninsula, but ferry crossings to Ærø from the mainland are ticketed, with typical car and passenger combined prices starting from a few hundred DKK each way, varying by route and season.
Erik's Tail location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Erik's Tail
A Narrow Tail Between Two Seas
Erik's Tail, or Eriks Hale, is a sandy spit that curves out from the harbour town of Marstal on Ærø, forming a delicate ribbon of land between two contrasting bodies of water. On one side lies the quiet “Little Sea”, a shallow, sheltered lagoon between the marina and the outer beach. On the other is the open Baltic, often called the “Big Sea” here, with fresher water, more movement and a feeling of real sea-going space. This unusual geography means you can stand on the narrowest part of the tail and feel flanked by water in two moods at once: calm and paddling‑friendly to one side, wave‑touched and brisk on the other. Low dunes and marram grass anchor the sand, while the long, low line of the peninsula draws your eye toward the horizon and the shipping lanes beyond.Iconic Beach Huts and Coastal Character
Erik's Tail is instantly recognisable thanks to its row of small, colourful beach huts. Painted in blues, yellows, reds and greens, they sit just above the sand like a string of toy houses, echoing the maritime heritage of Marstal’s old wooden boats. Many are simple: a bench, hooks for towels, perhaps a kettle or a fishing rod. Together they create one of Ærø’s most photographed seaside scenes. The huts are part of a broader coastal culture built around bathing, boating and summer idling. Their doors open directly onto sand, so swimmers step from hut to shore in a few strides. As light changes through the day, the colours of the huts shift too, from soft pastels in the early morning to sharp, saturated tones under strong afternoon sun.Swimming, Wading and Windy Walks
The Little Sea side of Erik's Tail is ideal for wading, playing and long, relaxed swims in warmer, shallow water. In summer the temperature can feel almost lagoon‑like, and the gentle slope makes it approachable for less confident swimmers and families with younger children. Further along, a jetty stretches over the water, perfect for jumping in or simply sitting with your feet dangling in the sea. On the Baltic side, the experience is more invigorating. Here the water quickly becomes deeper, the waves are livelier, and the breeze feels stronger and saltier. This is the side for longer, more energetic swims and for walkers who enjoy the sound of surf accompanying their stride. In breezy weather, the peninsula is a fine place to feel the elements without needing to venture far from town.Light, Weather and the Ærø Horizon
Because Erik's Tail extends out into open water, it feels unusually exposed to light and weather. On clear days you can watch the sun track across a nearly unobstructed sky, with water reflecting the light on both sides. Mild, windless evenings often bring soft colours and long, horizontal bands of pink and gold over the archipelago. When clouds roll in, the colours of the huts and sea deepen, and the tail can feel dramatic and moody rather than purely idyllic. Even outside high summer, it is an atmospheric place for short, bracing walks, with seabirds circling and ferries or coastal traffic sliding along the distant horizon.Simple Pleasures on the Edge of Marstal
Despite being only a short distance from Marstal’s streets and harbour, Erik's Tail feels like a small escape. There are no large structures, only sand, sea, the huts and occasional basic beach facilities. Many visitors bring simple picnics, a book or a camera, then let time stretch out between swims, shoreline strolls and quiet sitting. The scale is intimate, but the views are expansive. That contrast is part of the peninsula’s charm: a place where human touches remain small and colourful, yet the sea and sky dominate. Whether you come for a quick dip before breakfast, a long afternoon with the family or an off‑season walk in a strong breeze, Erik's Tail offers a concentrated taste of Ærø’s coastal life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument for Danske Sømænd
1.0 km
A modest harbourfront memorial in Marstal that quietly honours generations of Danish sailors who left this island port and never returned from the sea.
Rise Kirke
8.5 km
A quietly beautiful 12th‑century countryside church on Ærø, where whitewashed walls, historic graves and open fields tell the island’s rural and seafaring story.
Andelen Guesthouse
8.8 km
Discover the charm of Ærøskøbing at Andelen Guesthouse, your cozy retreat in the heart of Denmark's picturesque island.
På Torvet
8.9 km
Experience the unique charm of På Torvet in Ærøskøbing, where historic beauty meets modern comfort in the heart of Denmark.
Danish Island Weddings
8.9 km
Experience the magic of weddings on the enchanting Danish island of Ærø, where love meets scenic beauty and unforgettable memories are made.
Ærø Turist & Erhverv
9.0 km
Explore the beautiful island of Ærø with expert insights and resources from Ærø Turist & Erhverv, your local tourist information center.
Ærøfærgerne
9.0 km
Experience the scenic ferry ride to Ærø Island via Ærøfærgerne, where Danish charm meets breathtaking coastal views.
Hattesens Konfektfabrik Aps
9.0 km
Discover the sweet artistry of traditional Danish liquorice at Hattesens Konfektfabrik Aps in scenic Ærøskøbing.
Hotel Ærøhus
9.1 km
Historic hotel in the heart of Ærøskøbing known for its authentic Danish charm, lush gardens, and local island cuisine—a perfect base for exploring Ærø.
Langdyssen "Kong Humbles Grav"
11.4 km
A 55‑metre Stone Age long dolmen in the fields north of Humble, where legend, prehistoric engineering and soft Langeland landscapes meet in quiet simplicity.
Forladt skorsten
14.0 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Bregninge Kirke
15.1 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Saint Nicolai's Church
23.8 km
Svendborg’s oldest church and a quiet seafaring sanctuary, where red-brick medieval walls and a calm, whitewashed interior meet just off lively Gerritsgade.
Danmarks Forsorgsmuseum
24.1 km
Explore Denmark's social welfare history at Danmarks Forsorgsmuseum in Svendborg, the best-preserved poorhouse in the Nordic countries, offering a poignant journey into the lives of the marginalized.
Oehlenschlägers Bøg
24.2 km
Discover the legendary beech where Denmark's national anthem may have been written, nestled in the scenic Stengade Skov on the tranquil island of Langeland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Badehusene i Marstal
0.9 km
A slender sand spit lined with vividly painted wooden bathing huts, Badehusene i Marstal capture Ærø’s gentle island spirit, maritime heritage and slow seaside living.
Monument over Faldne Danske Søfolk under 1.Verdenskrig
0.9 km
A modest waterfront memorial in Marstal that quietly honours Danish merchant sailors lost in World War I, set amid the everyday life of a working harbour.
Marstal Søfartsmuseum
0.9 km
Five centuries of Danish maritime heritage brought to life through ship models, immersive interiors, and authentic harbour atmosphere.
Skipper Park
0.9 km
Maritime-themed playground and café by Marstal harbour, where kids splash and bounce while adults unwind over sea views and simple island fare.
Marstal Havn og Marina
1.0 km
Atmospheric island harbour where working shipyard, modern marina and Baltic seascapes meet just steps from Marstal’s maritime heart.
Ærø Svømmeklub
1.1 km
Community‑run island swim club and indoor pool in Marstal, offering lanes, lessons and a simple, all‑weather place to dip into everyday life on Ærø.
Aero Hotel
1.5 km
Relaxed adults-only island hotel on the edge of Marstal, with indoor pool, generous breakfast and easy access to Ærø’s beaches, harbour life and coastal paths.
Strandbyen Havn
3.9 km
Small, scenic marina and beachside hideaway on Ærø’s eastern tip, where simple harbour life, camping and open seascapes meet in a quietly charming setting.
Ærø Flyveplads
4.9 km
A small grass airfield in Ærø’s countryside, where island tranquillity meets light aircraft, scenic flights and colourful community events under wide open skies.
Ristinge Klint
5.5 km
Dramatic ice‑age cliffs, sweeping Baltic views and simple coastal trails make Ristinge Klint a quietly spectacular corner of southern Langeland.
View Point
5.6 km
A simple stop on Ærø’s coastal dike with sweeping views of sea, marsh and sky, perfect for a quiet pause, a photo, or a golden-hour moment between towns.
Sankt Alberts church
6.7 km
Grassy earthworks on a windswept headland mark where a Viking fort and medieval church once watched over Ærø’s coast, their story now held in turf and sea air.
Mindesten for Edvard Biering
6.9 km
A modest roadside memorial on Ærø, honouring district doctor Edvard Biering and offering a quiet glimpse into the island’s everyday history.
Vejsnæs Nakke Fyr
7.9 km
A modest working lighthouse on Ærø’s exposed southern tip, where Ice Age cliffs, sweeping sea views and restless wind meet in a quietly dramatic coastal landscape.
Naturlegepladsen & shelters
8.3 km
A modest island playground and shelter spot on Ærø’s edge, blending simple outdoor fun, family-friendly space and back-to-basics overnight stays under open skies.
Essential places to dine
Pizzeria Siciliana v/ Marcello Antonio
0.6 km
Harbor-close, no-nonsense pizzeria in Marstal serving crisp, generous Italian-style pies and takeaway boxes ideal for salty-haired sailors and island wanderers.
Sønderrendens Perle/Burger House Marstal
0.7 km
Casual harbourfront burger joint in Marstal serving hearty comfort food and ice cream just steps from the water, ideal for an easy seaside meal on Ærø.
Femmasteren Hotel & Vandrerhjem
0.8 km
Character-packed hotel and hostel in central Marstal, blending Ærø’s seafaring history, cozy communal living, and easy access to harbor-side attractions.
Miss Sophy Gastroclub
0.8 km
Relaxed island bistro and wine bar in central Marstal, serving seasonal comfort dishes, creative burgers and cocktails in an intimate, hygge-filled setting.
Prinsebroen
0.9 km
Harbour-side smokehouse and café in Marstal, serving Ærø’s signature smoked fish and open sandwiches with wide sea views and an easy-going island atmosphere.
Webers café og restaurant
0.9 km
A warmly lit former sailors’ pub in Marstal, serving compact Danish–French bistro dishes, local Ærø beers and well-chosen wines in a cosy brown-café setting.
Restaurant Fru Berg
1.0 km
Harbourfront fish plates, Ærø pancakes and cosy nautical charm right on Marstal’s working quay, where local flavours meet everyday life on the Baltic.
Hotel Marstal
1.0 km
Family-run harbour hotel and Danish kitchen in the heart of Marstal, perfectly placed for Ærø’s maritime history, beach walks and relaxed island days.
Den Gamle Vingaard
1.0 km
Mediterranean-Nordic cuisine in a historic maritime setting with a tranquil garden courtyard.
MARSTANG café
1.1 km
Island café where sourdough bread bowls and natural wine capture Ærø's seasonal soul
Kebabvogn Ærø
1.1 km
Casual harbor-side kebab cart serving quick, satisfying meals in charming Marstal.
Minde APS
1.1 km
Generous Danish fare and warm hospitality in Marstal's welcoming neighborhood restaurant.
MARSTANG mad & vin
1.1 km
Intimate island restaurant in Marstal’s old town, serving weekly changing seasonal menus and a serious wine list in a relaxed, candlelit setting.
Reventlow's Gastropub & Burgers
1.2 km
Laid-back island gastropub in Marstal serving hearty burgers, bar snacks and late-night music in a compact, lively setting on historic Kongensgade.
Hotel Udsigten Marstal
1.6 km
Laid-back waterfront hotel on Ærø where nearly every room faces the Baltic and Marstal’s maritime charm is just a shoreline stroll away.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Antikhjørnet
1.1 km
Curated vintage treasures and 4,000 Christmas ornaments in a charming Ærø antique shop.
Chr. H v/Hanne Kromann
1.1 km
Locally anchored clothing shop in Marstal’s old town, offering classic Scandinavian styles for men and women with a subtle, maritime Ærø touch.
Ærøpigen
1.1 km
Cozy island shop in central Marstal, blending woolly comforts, local delicacies and everyday essentials in a snug Kirkestræde setting on Ærø.
DCA Op Shop
1.1 km
Small island thrift shop in Marstal where second-hand treasures, community spirit and global charity work come together in a cozy, slow-paced setting.
Bille Knudsen Isenkram
1.1 km
A densely stocked island hardware and homeware store in Marstal’s pedestrian street, supplying sailors, locals and holidaymakers with practical Danish everyday goods.
Galleri Strandesen
7.8 km
Intimate island gallery in Ærøskøbing where sea light, harbour life and quiet streets are transformed into contemporary paintings you can linger over—and take home.
Blåbær Gårdbutik
8.8 km
Historic 1850s island farm turned cosy lifestyle shop, blending Scandinavian design, organic treats and a relaxed courtyard with animals on Ærøskøbing’s rural edge.
Donna & Miss Daisy
8.8 km
Intimate island boutique in Ærøskøbing’s old town, blending whimsical Scandinavian fashion, thoughtful accessories and personal styling in a cosy, cobbled-street setting.
Verdens Mindste Stormagasin
8.8 km
A delightfully tiny “world’s smallest department store” in Ærøskøbing, brimming with island-made crafts, nostalgic curiosities and small-town Danish charm.
Blandede Bolcher
8.8 km
A tiny Søndergade shop where antiques, toys and curiosities spill from every corner, offering a nostalgic, treasure-hunt pause in fairytale Ærøskøbing.
Island Living Ærø
8.9 km
A cosy craft, yarn and leather shop on Ærøskøbing’s main square, where Nordic design, island inspiration and tactile materials come together in one intimate space.
Kunstmågen
8.9 km
Artistic supplies and creative workshops in the heart of Ærøskøbing's charming historic square.
Garna
8.9 km
A serene yarn and design boutique in Ærøskøbing’s old savings bank, where natural fibres, thoughtful details and island calm invite you to slow down and create.
Ærøskøbing City Museum Kiosk & Bookstore
8.9 km
A cosy little museum shop in Ærøskøbing’s old sheriff’s house, pairing kiosk charm with curated books and souvenirs that tell the story of Ærø island.
Shop
8.9 km
Atmospheric lifestyle and gift shop on Brogade in Ærøskøbing’s old town, blending traditional hardware-store roots with cozy Danish design and island-inspired finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar & Café MF Egeskov
0.8 km
Cozy harborfront bar and café on Marstal’s working quay, blending maritime atmosphere, dockside views, and relaxed drinks in the spirit of Ærø’s seafaring life.
BALLAST BAR BUTIK
1.0 km
Cozy harborfront cocktail bar and woolly boutique in Marstal’s old ferry waiting room, blending inventive drinks, Nordic knitwear and intimate island atmosphere.
Foley's Pub
1.1 km
Marstal's maritime pub where live music, local brews, and seafaring tales create authentic island nightlife.
Skipperkroen
1.1 km
Cosy skipper’s bar in central Marstal, serving inexpensive drinks and simple fare in a relaxed, maritime small‑town atmosphere close to the harbour.
Marstal cafe Den Glade Gris
1.4 km
Cozy island bar in Marstal where locals and visitors share beers, stories and a relaxed slice of Ærø everyday life.
Arrebo
9.0 km
Island pub where locals and visitors gather for live music, cold drinks, and authentic Ærø atmosphere.
Havnekiosken 6kanten
14.9 km
Quirky octagonal harbour kiosk turned cosy café-bar, serving simple Danish fare and cold beer with front-row views of Rudkøbing’s boats and Langelandsbroen.
Havnekiosken v/Ole Damgaard Hansen
14.9 km
A tiny historic kiosk-bar on Rudkøbing’s harbor front, serving simple drinks and snacks with big maritime views and the easy rhythm of island harbor life.
Dybendal
14.9 km
Easygoing local bar on Rudkøbing’s main square, blending billiards, darts and drinks with small‑town atmosphere and summer concerts on the cobbled Torvet.
Sukker
15.0 km
Intimate wine bar where Danish heritage meets Nordic sophistication in historic Rudkøbing.
Kasket karl
15.0 km
A classic Rudkøbing bodega where locals gather for cold beer, warm conversation, and an authentic slice of island everyday life from morning to late evening.
No. 10
15.2 km
Cozy, adults‑only lounge bar in a former butcher’s shop, serving Champagne, craft beer and cocktails with island hygge and a colourful courtyard in central Rudkøbing.
Langelands Jazzklub
15.4 km
Tiny island jazz hub in Rudkøbing, blending close-up concerts, seasonal outdoor gigs and decades of Danish jazz heritage in a warm, community-run setting.
Basicbigband
15.4 km
Local big band headquarters in a quiet Rudkøbing neighbourhood, where brass, reeds and rhythm bring Langeland’s intimate jazz scene to life on select evenings.
Rådhuskælderen
19.8 km
Cosy cellar bar in Søby’s former town hall, offering simple drinks, local atmosphere and a low‑key glimpse of everyday life on the island of Ærø.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ommel
3.9 km
A small, sociable island nightspot near Marstal where locals and travelers share quiet drinks, simple music and the easygoing charm of Ærø after dark.
Crazy Daisy Svendborg
23.9 km
Compact, high-energy weekend nightclub in central Svendborg, serving mainstream beats, drinks and a sociable dance floor until the early hours.
Ærø Golf Klub
24.7 km
Distinctive links course on Ærø’s northwest cape, blending historic lighthouse views, Nordic coastlines, and a classic Danish golfing challenge.
CLUB ZANZI
38.4 km
High‑energy waterfront nightclub bringing big‑city beats, flashing lights and late‑night dancing to the heart of coastal Nakskov.
Old Danish Pub
48.1 km
Central Sønderborg institution blending classic Danish pub ambiance, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere—perfect for experiencing Southern Denmark’s warmth and social life.
Kaizen ApS
48.1 km
Compact disco-style nightclub in central Sønderborg, pulsing with late-night beats, colourful lights and a straightforward bar for an unpretentious night out.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
48.3 km
Authentic New Orleans jazz experience in the heart of Sønderborg.
Muzirkus
53.1 km
Nyborg's independent music sanctuary where local bands rehearse, collaborate, and perform since 1974.
Dance All Over
54.0 km
Sønderborg’s sociable dance hub, where fitness, swing and party-ready moves come together in energetic, community-driven classes across the city.
KJ's bodel
54.1 km
Laid‑back local nightspot on Nyborg’s main square, mixing simple drinks, sociable bar chatter and a compact dance floor in an unpretentious setting.
Dance Odense, Funen Square Dance Club
57.4 km
Community-driven square dancing in a cozy Odense neighborhood hall, where callers, patterns and shared rhythm turn an ordinary evening into a friendly social event.
Carlsens Kvarter
60.9 km
Atmospheric pub in Odense C, offering unmatched hygge, an impressive selection of craft beers, and a welcoming local vibe in a characterful historic setting.
Den Brølende And
61.3 km
Experience the heart of Odense's nightlife at Den Brølende And, where music, dance, and camaraderie come alive.
Heidi's Bier Bar Odense
61.4 km
Dance on tables, drink large beers, and celebrate Alpine-style year-round in Odense's most uninhibited nightclub.
Dansebar Odense
61.5 km
Lively central Odense nightclub with mainstream hits, colorful lights and a sociable dance floor vibe from late evening into the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Pet Friendly