Cold Hawaii – Klitmøller
Denmark's windswept North Sea coast where consistent Atlantic swells meet Nordic wilderness and creative culture.
Cold Hawaii is Denmark's premier windsurfing and kitesurfing destination, centered on the small coastal town of Klitmøller in Thy National Park. Once a quiet fishing village, this windswept stretch of North Sea coastline has transformed into a thriving hub for water sports enthusiasts, artists, and travelers seeking dramatic dunes, consistent waves, and a laid-back Nordic atmosphere. The region encompasses 31 registered surf spots across 50 kilometers of pristine shoreline.
A brief summary to Cold Hawaii
- Ørhagevej 140, Thisted, 7700, DK
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book surf lessons and equipment rentals well in advance during peak season (spring and autumn), as popular schools fill quickly. Winter offers fewer crowds but colder water and more variable conditions.
- Dress in layers and embrace the wind—it's a defining feature of Cold Hawaii. Even summer days can be bracing; a quality wetsuit is essential year-round for water activities.
- Have a car to explore the full 50-kilometer stretch of Cold Hawaii coastline. Drive north and south of Klitmøller Strand to discover different breaks and less-crowded spots.
- Visit during the annual summer festival in early June or time your trip for spring and autumn lows when wave conditions are most consistent and dramatic.
- Most restaurants and cafes operate seasonally (primarily summer); plan meals accordingly or stay at accommodations with kitchen facilities for flexibility.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car Rental from Aalborg Airport
Rent a car at Aalborg Airport (approximately 90 kilometers south) and drive north toward Thisted and Klitmøller. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via Route 11 and Route 7. Parking is available near Klitmøller beach and throughout the town. This is the most flexible option for exploring the full Cold Hawaii coastline. Rental costs typically range from 300–600 DKK per day depending on vehicle type.
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Bus from Thisted
Take a regional bus from Thisted town center (approximately 18 kilometers south) to Klitmøller. Journey time is approximately 30–45 minutes depending on the route and stops. Buses operate regularly throughout the day, with reduced service in winter months. Single tickets cost approximately 50–80 DKK. This option is budget-friendly but less flexible for exploring multiple surf spots along the 50-kilometer coastline.
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Train and Bus Combination from Copenhagen
Take a train from Copenhagen Central Station to Thisted (approximately 5–6 hours with connections), then board a regional bus to Klitmøller (30–45 minutes). Total journey time is 6–7 hours. Train tickets range from 300–500 DKK depending on booking time; bus tickets add 50–80 DKK. This option suits travelers without a car, though it requires advance planning and is less convenient for exploring surrounding areas.
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Taxi or Ride-Share from Thisted
Arrange a taxi or ride-share service from Thisted town center to Klitmøller (approximately 18 kilometers). Journey time is 20–30 minutes. Costs typically range from 250–400 DKK depending on demand and time of day. This option offers convenience without renting a car but is more expensive than public transport for a single journey.
Cold Hawaii location weather suitability
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Any Weather
Discover more about Cold Hawaii
From Fishing Village to Europe's Windsurfing Capital
Klitmøller was once a modest fishing community of around 800 inhabitants, its economy tied to the North Sea's bounty. The transformation began when windsurfing legend Josh Stone arrived for a soul wave contest and was captivated by the powerful Atlantic swells funneling into the bay. His exclamation—"It's like Cold Hawaii!"—became the nickname that would define the region. What started as a whisper among the international windsurfing community evolved into a global phenomenon. Today, Klitmøller hosts prestigious competitions including the PWA World Cup, attracting elite athletes and enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond.The Geography of Wind and Water
Climbing the sand dunes around Klitmøller, you encounter a landscape shaped by millennia of North Sea forces. The town sits 11 kilometers southwest of Hanstholm and 18 kilometers northwest of Thisted, positioned on the western edge of the Jutland Peninsula where the Atlantic opens fully to the coast. Two large lakes—Vester Vandet and Nors—lie inland to the east, while Thy National Park borders the town to the south and east. The dune heaths here represent some of Europe's most extensive and unspoiled examples, creating a characteristic Nordic wilderness of high skies, salt-laden winds, and vast open spaces. Flora includes leymus, heather, crowberry, and sea hollies, while wood sandpipers and cranes inhabit the marshlands.The Reef and Wave Conditions
The magic of Cold Hawaii lies beneath the surface. At the point where Klitmøller Strand's shoreline angles from running south-north to west-east, a limestone reef extends far into the sea, its surface encrusted with sharp shells. This underwater formation acts as a natural wave organizer, catching the largest swells from the open North Sea and channeling them into rideable lines with fine sideshore conditions. The reef provides excellent ramps for jumping in southerly wind directions, making it ideal for wave performance—a specialized windsurfing discipline that has been hosted here since the 1990s. Spring and autumn lows passing over northern Europe bring the most consistent conditions; westerly to west-north-westerly winds create the most dramatic waves, sometimes reaching heights that command respect even from expert riders.A Creative Hub Emerges
In recent years, Klitmøller has evolved beyond its sporting reputation. An influx of international travelers, artists, and creative professionals has established a vibrant cultural scene. Cool galleries, quality restaurants, and boutique accommodations now sit tucked between the dunes within walking distance of the beach. The annual summer festival takes place every year in the first weekend of June, drawing locals and visitors alike. The town maintains its charm through thoughtful architecture inspired by traditional "Ese-houses"—a typology used by local fishermen for centuries—ensuring that new development respects the cultural heritage while accommodating the growing surf community.Water Sports Beyond Surfing
While windsurfing and kitesurfing dominate, Cold Hawaii offers diverse water sports opportunities. Kitesurfing has surged in popularity thanks to the region's consistently strong winds and large waves. Stand-up paddleboarding, wingsurfing, and traditional swimming are accessible to all skill levels. The bracing North Sea water—typically 15–20°C even in summer—demands wetsuits year-round, but the challenge is part of the appeal. Multiple rental agencies and surf schools operate throughout Klitmøller, offering equipment and instruction for beginners through advanced athletes.Exploring Beyond the Waves
On days when conditions don't favor water sports, the region offers rich alternatives. The nearby town of Thisted provides shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Mountain bike trails wind through the surrounding landscape, offering scenic routes through dunes and forests. The bunker museum in Hanstholm, about 15 minutes' drive north, preserves Cold War history. Vorupør, to the south, features a free exhibition dedicated to Thy National Park's ecology and conservation. Camping Nystrup serves as the informal gathering place for the surfing community, offering affordable accommodation in campervans, tents, and small huts, with food trucks and a shop selling fresh provisions and local Thisted beer.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Battery Hanstholm 1
9.5 km
Wind-beaten dunes, concrete giants and sweeping sea views meet at Battery Hanstholm 1, an open-air World War II strongpoint on Denmark’s remote northwest coast.
Thisted Vandtårn
15.1 km
A glowing beacon of Thisted's industrial heritage, this iconic 1939 water tower illuminates the night sky.
Eshøj gravhøj
20.0 km
A Bronze Age burial mound preserving 3,000 years of Danish prehistoric heritage on a windswept Jutland plateau.
SOLTEGNET af billedhugger og professor Bjørn Nørgaard
39.0 km
A radiant sculpture of oyster shells celebrating art, sustainability, and fjord culture.
JyllandsAkvariet
40.9 km
Explore JyllandsAkvariet in Thyborøn for an unforgettable journey into the underwater world, showcasing marine life and conservation efforts.
Fur Museum
41.5 km
Discover Denmark’s prehistoric wonders at Fur Museum—home to some of Europe’s finest fossils and a lively hub of natural and local history in the heart of Limfjord.
Sneglehuset
42.2 km
Discover Sneglehuset in Thyborøn: A mesmerizing house adorned with millions of shells, crafted by a fisherman as a testament to love and a unique artistic vision on Denmark's West Coast.
Æ Fywerhus
44.6 km
Discover the captivating history of Limfjord fishing at Æ Fywerhus on Jegindø, a charming museum showcasing traditional techniques, tools, and the lives of local fishermen.
Jegindø
45.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Jegindø, Limfjord’s peaceful island retreat, celebrated for its rich fishing heritage, scenic coastal walks, and abundant birdlife.
The Holy source
45.6 km
A timeless medieval spring flowing steadily through Danish countryside since 1360.
Limfjordsmuseet Løgstør
47.0 km
Explore Denmark’s maritime heritage and fjord culture at Limfjordsmuseet in Løgstør, with hands-on exhibits, heritage ships, and unique oyster and fishing traditions.
Limfjordsmuseets bådebyggeri
47.1 km
Experience the living world of Danish wooden boatbuilding at Limfjordsmuseets Bådebyggeri—a vibrant, hands-on tribute to maritime heritage in scenic Løgstør.
Aggersborg
47.3 km
Experience the awe-inspiring scale of Aggersborg, Denmark’s best-preserved Viking ring fortress, set amid sweeping Limfjord landscapes and centuries of history.
Thyholm Egnsmuseum
48.1 km
Experience the rural heritage, crafts, and community of Limfjord at Thyholm Egnsmuseum—a living museum on Thyholm showcasing local history and traditions.
Spøttrup Borg Velkomstcenter
48.9 km
Experience authentic Danish medieval history at Spøttrup Borg, North Jutland’s best-preserved castle, surrounded by moats, gardens, and sweeping views of Limfjord.
Unmissable attractions to see
Biologisk Forening For Nordvestjylland
0.0 km
Nature education center exploring the ecosystems and biodiversity of northwestern Jutland.
Waves4you
0.2 km
A low-key coastal hideaway on Denmark’s Cold Hawaii shore, where North Sea waves, shifting dunes and a laid-back surf culture shape every moment by the water.
Klitmøller Beach
0.2 km
Raw North Sea surf, wind-carved dunes and a laid-back village vibe make Klitmøller Beach the salty heart of Denmark’s “Cold Hawaii” coastline year-round.
Varde (Cairn)
0.6 km
A modest Bronze Age burial mound set in the windswept heath of Thy National Park, where quiet paths and big skies reveal the depth of Denmark’s ancient past.
Naturstyrelsen Thy
6.4 km
Administrative heart of Thy’s wild landscapes, where Denmark’s coastal dunes, forests and heathlands are planned, protected and managed from a quiet base at Søholt.
Nors Sø Parkering - Thy Nationalpark
7.1 km
Quiet forest-edge car park and trailhead on Agerholmvej, opening directly onto the clear waters, lake views and heathland paths of Nors Sø in Thy National Park.
Thagaards Plantage
7.5 km
A wind-twisted pocket of birch and spruce where a 19th‑century experiment to tame drifting sands has grown into an eerie, primeval thicket in National Park Thy.
Hanstholm Vildtreservat
7.7 km
Denmark's largest wild heathland where red deer roam free and ancient landscapes meet untamed nature.
Isbjerg - Nationalpark Thy
8.1 km
A low Danish hill with a vast horizon, Isbjerg crowns Thy National Park with sweeping dune-heath views, ancient coastlines, and a quiet sense of wilderness.
Bøgsted Rende
8.3 km
Where Thy’s coastal forest meets dune and sea, a rust‑coloured brook and red hourglass beacon create one of Denmark’s most quietly dramatic coastal valleys.
Ålvand Klithede Fugletårn
10.5 km
A simple wooden bird tower above windswept dune heathland near Thisted, offering wide horizons, shifting light and quietly rewarding birdwatching in Thy.
Hanstholm Fyr
10.5 km
Historic North Sea lighthouse on windswept Hanstholm Knude, combining powerful coastal views, maritime heritage and a small but thoughtful art and nature hub.
Egebaksande
10.6 km
Charred manor walls, open skies and quiet fields meet at Egebaksande, a hauntingly beautiful estate ruin on the wild fringe of Thy near Thisted.
Cold Hawaii beachview
11.4 km
A windswept North Sea vantage point over Denmark’s legendary Cold Hawaii surf coast, where dunes, waves and Thy National Park meet in a distinctly Nordic beachscape.
Nørre Vorupør bagfyr
11.6 km
A small red‑and‑white lighthouse on the dunes of Thy, Nørre Vorupør Bagfyr quietly celebrates North Sea navigation, coastal heritage and windswept national park scenery.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Niels Juel
0.3 km
Classic Danish fish restaurant with sweeping North Sea views, maritime charm and seasonal local seafood in the heart of Klitmøller and Nationalpark Thy.
Geo's Pizza Ristorante
0.6 km
Casual, family-friendly pizzeria in surfy Klitmøller, serving hearty pizzas, burgers and pastas just inland from the dunes of Denmark’s Cold Hawaii coast.
Café Hawgus Klitmøller
0.9 km
Cosy coastal seafood in the heart of Klitmøller’s surf town, pairing North Sea flavours with a relaxed, beachy atmosphere from midday through evening.
Hanstholm Madbar
10.6 km
Discover culinary delights at Hanstholm Madbar - where local flavors meet innovative cuisine in a stunning coastal setting.
La Pizza Ristorante
10.8 km
Casual Italian‑style comfort food and hearty grill plates in the heart of Hanstholm, a relaxed refuelling stop between the North Sea harbor and wild Thy landscapes.
Det Gamle Røgeri
11.5 km
Hanstholm's iconic smokehouse serving legendary smoked fish and fresh seafood in authentic Danish coastal tradition.
Vø Pizzabar
11.7 km
Surf-town pizza and bar in Vorupør, serving creative pies, vegan-friendly options and drinks in a relaxed Cold Hawaii coastal atmosphere.
Vesterhavscaféen ved Nørre Vorupør Landingsplads
11.7 km
Casual seaside dining practically on the sand at Vorupør’s landingsplads, with hearty coastal fare and front-row views of the North Sea and Cold Hawaii surf.
Klochs Spisested
11.7 km
Hearty burgers, steaks and spareribs in a laid‑back American‑style diner by the North Sea in Nørre Vorupør, a cozy coastal stop on Denmark’s wild west coast.
Pandekagehjørnet
11.7 km
Cosy North Sea pancake café in Vorupør, serving sweet and savoury treats and easygoing comfort food just a short stroll from the windswept Thy coastline.
Vø cafe
11.7 km
Laid-back brunch and coffee just behind the dunes in Vorupør, where Nordic simplicity meets salty North Sea surf-town vibes.
La Grande Café, Pizza & Steak House
11.7 km
Fresh pizzas and quality steaks in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.
Bistro 123
11.8 km
Classic French bistro cooking meets surf-coast calm at this modern, candlelit restaurant inside Vorupør Badehotel on Denmark’s wild northwest shore.
Restaurant & Steakhouse Amalie
11.9 km
Coastal steakhouse blending premium beef, fresh seafood, and Nordic hospitality in Thisted's harbor district.
VØ Burgers
12.3 km
Casual burger-and-pizza hangout in laid-back Nr. Vorupør, perfect for refuelling after salty North Sea adventures along the wild Thy coastline.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vorupør Røgeri
11.6 km
Sample the flavors of Denmark’s North Sea coast at Vorupør Røgeri, a beloved smokehouse blending tradition, local seafood, and warm hospitality in Thy’s seaside village.
Surf Pro Cold Hawaii - Vorupør
11.7 km
Surf Pro Cold Hawaii in Vorupør is the ultimate hub for surf rentals, lessons, and gear—right in the wild heart of Denmark’s coastal Thy National Park.
Fiskercompagniet
11.7 km
Bustling coastal fish shop and smokehouse in Vorupør, serving ultra-fresh North Sea seafood, easy takeaway meals and smoked specialities steps from the beach.
Klitmøller Collective
11.7 km
A calm, coastal-chic clothing store in the heart of Cold Hawaii, blending Nordic design, surf-town spirit, and practical style for life by the North Sea.
Rav& Sten
11.7 km
Premium amber and gemstone treasures from Denmark's North Sea coast, nestled in historic Vorupør.
Is Mejeriet Thy
11.7 km
Artisanal ice cream crafted with care in a charming North Sea harbor village.
Svanebro
11.7 km
Cosy coastal shop in Vorupør combining handmade sweets, local specialties and gift-worthy homeware just a short stroll from the wild North Sea.
Danmission Op Shop
11.7 km
Cosy coastal thrift store in Vorupør where second-hand finds, from warm knitwear to well-loved books and furniture, support Danmission’s wider charitable work.
Den Lille Ravbutik ApS
11.7 km
Cosy amber specialist in Vorupør, where North Sea beach culture meets warm, golden jewellery crafted from Danish west coast treasure.
Den Gamle Butik I/S
12.0 km
A cosy, nostalgia-filled shop in coastal Vorupør where Nordic design, year-round Christmas magic and the scent of freshly ground coffee create a timeless hygge retreat.
Shaped by the Tides
12.1 km
A calm, design-led coastal boutique in Vorupør, where Nordic minimalism meets North Sea surf culture in a carefully curated selection of ocean-inspired goods.
VØ Skateshop I Jibe Longboards
12.2 km
Coastal skateshop blending surf culture with longboarding lifestyle in northern Denmark.
Meny
12.2 km
A welcoming supermarket where quality, service, and local character converge in coastal Vorupør.
Vorupør Slagterforetning v/Søren Odder Jensen
12.3 km
Three generations of Danish butchery craft, sourcing local meats with personal expertise and regional pride.
Alt for Hunden - Hundeklipning, Hundesalon, Hundetrimming, Negleklip og Hundefrisering i Thisted.
13.4 km
Professional dog grooming by a certified cynologist in Thisted's trusted pet care salon.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Inside v/Gabriele Steinke
0.3 km
Unpretentious bar and grill on Thisted’s coastal edge, serving hearty burgers, fish and chips and cold beers to locals and holidaymakers in a laid-back setting.
Gården Klitmøller
0.5 km
Cozy farmhouse café, bar and lodge at the heart of Klitmøller’s Cold Hawaii coast, steps from surf, sand and the wild edges of Thy National Park.
Haandpluk Kaffebar og delikatesse
1.2 km
Intimate Klitmøller hangout blending specialty coffee, craft beer, curated wine and deli treats in a cosy garage-style space near the windswept northwest coast.
Stalden Klitmøller
1.8 km
A timeworn village bar on Klitmøller’s main street, where North Sea surf culture, local life and simple drinks come together in a cosy, unpretentious setting.
Sir Henry's Pub
10.9 km
Authentic Danish pub hospitality in the heart of Hanstholm's charming coastal town.
LUDO
11.0 km
Cozy neighborhood bar on Hanstholm’s Bytorvet square, pouring cold beer and classic drinks in a laid‑back setting that turns lively on weekend nights.
Cafe Nytorv v/ John Nielsen
16.3 km
Unpretentious bodega-style bar on Thisted’s central square, serving cold beers, simple drinks and everyday hygge from late morning to late night.
Café Børsen
16.3 km
Casual harbor-side café where locals gather for drinks and genuine Danish social warmth.
Harmonien
16.4 km
Thisted's welcoming bar and restaurant serving generous brunches and curated drinks in the town centre.
Heidi's Bier Bar
16.6 km
Loud, lively and drenched in Tyrolean après‑ski flair, Heidi’s Bier Bar Thisted turns coastal North Jutland nights into all‑season Oktoberfest parties.
SwagHouse
25.8 km
Casual nightlife hub in the heart of Nykøbing Mors, where locals and travelers gather for drinks and social connection.
Lagunen
26.8 km
A cozy village bar in Bedsted Thy, Lagunen offers simple drinks, local company and a warm slice of North Jutland everyday life in a relaxed, no-frills setting.
Pusterummet
33.0 km
A relaxed local bar and eatery in the heart of Hurup Thy, where billiards, cold beer and simple comfort food create an easygoing small-town social hub.
Nabo
36.1 km
Cozy neighbourhood wine bar on Nykøbing Mors’ Lilletorv, pouring characterful wines, easygoing drinks and relaxed hygge in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Farmors Bodega
36.2 km
Authentic Danish bodega where locals gather for beers, aquavit, and genuine Limfjord hospitality.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- National Park
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Pet Friendly
