Pomerania is a region where nature amazes with its diversity. From the sandy beaches of the Baltic Sea to vast marshes, lakes, and nature reserves, the landscape offers a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts - observing birds in their natural habitats.
Thanks to exceptional areas such as the Vistula Lagoon, the Vistula Estuary, Puck Bay, and the Słowiński National Park, Pomerania is considered one of the best places in Poland (and even Europe!) to watch feathered wildlife.
Vistula Lagoon - the Kingdom of Cormorants
This is one of the largest breeding grounds for the great cormorant in Europe, and home to over 150 bird species – including grey herons, helmeted mergansers, bean geese, and white-tailed eagles. The Kąty Rybackie reserve is especially valued, hosting one of the largest cormorant colonies in the country.
Vistula Lagoon, cormorant, photo by Ireneusz Florczyk
Vistula Estuary - Mewia Łacha and Ptasi Raj
Near Gdańsk, in the Mewia Łacha and Ptasi Raj reserves, visitors can observe hundreds of waterfowl and wetland bird species, such as terns, gulls, oystercatchers, swans, and waders. This area is ideal for beginners – easily accessible, with well-prepared trails and observation towers.
Puck Bay and Beka Reserve – Salt-Loving Habitats
The Beka Reserve, located at the mouth of the Reda River, combines tourist attractions with rich natural values. Apart from salt-tolerant plants, visitors can see species like the yellow wagtail, dunlin, northern lapwing, ruffs, white-tailed eagles, and mute swans. In winter, numerous migratory species also appear here.
Robin, photo: pixabay.com
Słowiński National Park - a birdwatcher’s paradise
Over 270 bird species, including bean geese, common pochards, tufted ducks, and teal – this is just part of the avian diversity of Słowiński National Park. From the tower on Rowokół Hill (115 m above sea level), panoramic views stretch across the moving dunes, Łebsko and Gardno lakes, and the Baltic Sea – an ideal setting to watch birds in flight.
Vistula Spit – Góra Pirata and Kąty Rybackie
The observation tower on Góra Pirata and the Marine Bird Observation Point, located between Krynica Morska and Piaski, offer spectacular views of the Vistula Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. In Kąty Rybackie, there is a well-known observation point for a cormorant colony – one of the largest in Europe.
Jastrzębia Góra – Cliffside Birdwatching
The observation point on the cliff (3-5 m above sea level) allows monitoring of seabird migrations – perfect for those starting their birdwatching adventure without venturing into difficult terrain.
Best Times for Birdwatching
Seasons:
- Spring (March-May): bird migrations, peak breeding activity.
- Summer: waterfowl and young birds.
- Autumn: southern migrations, high activity along the coast.
- Winter: seabirds, swans, and geese.
Transport:
- The Vistula Estuary and Beka reserves are easily reachable by car from Gdańsk (approx. 40-60 minutes).
- Słowiński National Park – from Łeba or Smołdzino.
- Vistula Lagoon and Kąty Rybackie – from Elbląg or Krynica Morska.
- For shorter trips, bicycles (e.g., EuroVelo 10) and trekking poles are ideal.
Weekend Suggestions – “Three Days with Birds”
Day 1: Vistula Estuary – walk through Ptasi Raj Reserve
Day 2: Beka Reserve – afternoon by Puck Bay
Day 3: Słowiński National Park – observation point on Rowokół
Equipment:
Binoculars, a bird atlas, camouflage clothing, and patience are essential for any birdwatcher.
Accommodation:
Near the reserves, there are guesthouses, agritourism farms, and campsites suitable for nature lovers.
Puck Bay with the Beka reserve Phot. I. Florczyk
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to observe birds?
No, but visitors must follow reserve rules – stay on designated paths and avoid disturbing the animals.
Is birdwatching a seasonal activity?
Not exactly, although spring and autumn are the most exciting due to migrations. In winter, cold-adapted species can still be observed.
Can children participate?
Yes, it is an excellent form of ecological education. Many reserves have family-friendly trails and educational boards.
Related Content
- Off the Beaten Path in Pomerania – Kociewie for Nature Lovers
- Pomeranian Landscape Parks and Their Treasures
- Pomerania Under the Open Sky – 5 Ideas for Close Encounters with Nature
- Observation Points (Birdwatching)
Birdwatching in Pomerania is not just a hobby – it’s a way to deeply connect with nature. Every moment spent in silence, with binoculars in hand and the sound of the sea in the background, allows you to discover the world from a different perspective.
Plan your nature trip today and see what the feathered inhabitants have to offer.
More about birdwatching:
- Vistula Lagoon (Birdwatching)
- Vistula Estuary along with Ptasi Raj and Mewia Łacha Reserves (Birdwatching)
- Puck Bay along with Beka Reserve (Birdwatching)
- Off the Beaten Path in Pomerania – walking through Beka Reserve
- Słowiński National Park (Birdwatching)
- Bird Migration on the Vistula Spit – bird highways over the Baltic
- Observation Points (Birdwatching)
