Schleswig-Holstein's Bathing Waters Again Rated 'Very Good' Ahead of Summer Season

The testing program, carried out by district and municipal authorities, involved collecting over 300 samples from the 330 bathing waters. The results indicate that unrestricted bathing is possible at all tested sites.

The positive assessment continues a long-standing trend for the northern German state. According to the ministry, water quality in Schleswig-Holstein has been predominantly good for years.

Data from the previous 2025 season underscores this consistency. More than 90 percent of all bathing waters in the state received the top rating of 'excellent' during that period.

No Site Rated 'Poor'

A further seven percent of sites were rated as 'good' in the 2025 season. The minister, a member of the CDU party, highlighted a particularly noteworthy detail from last year's results.

"Kein Badegewässer erhielt dabei die Note 'mangelhaft'," von der Decken stated, confirming that not a single bathing water was classified as 'poor'.

The comprehensive testing regime is a standard procedure conducted before the start of each bathing season. It is designed to ensure public health and safety by monitoring for bacterial contamination and other pollutants.

Ongoing Monitoring for Public Safety

The consistently high ratings are a significant factor for tourism in Schleswig-Holstein, which is a popular destination for beach holidays along the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts. The 'excellent' ratings serve as a key quality signal for visitors.

Local authorities will continue to monitor water quality throughout the summer months. The health ministry advises the public to check the state's official portal for the most up-to-date information on individual bathing sites before swimming.