Poland: Best of the Baltic Beaches

A few months ago, your Tonic Trekker wrote about Poland's Tricity region on the Baltic Sea, and it actually inspired me to visit the area on my current around-the-world journey. My goal was to see which of the three cities -- Gdansk, Sopot or Gydnia -- is ideal for water lovers like myself.

I decided to stay in Gdansk (at left), the largest of the three cities, since it had the most tourist attractions. The city truly had the most magnificent architecture and lots of lovely waterways, but it really wasn't the place for people who want to swim. Fortunately, the other two cities are a quick and cheap train ride away.

I spent the next day in Sopot (at right), which is clearly the main tourist spot for the beach crowd. Monte Cassino -- the main street that connects the train stop to the ocean -- is filled with restaurants, bars, shops and makeshift outdoor art galleries. The street ends where Europe's longest wooden pier begins, which you can walk down for a small admission. People hit the sand on either side of the pier, but I preferred staying closer to the resort areas to the left (facing the water). You may not be able to use their chairs and beds, but you can visit their waterfront bars. And yes, I ordered drinks with umbrellas in them.

On my final day, I took the slightly longer trek out to Gydnia. It's had the biggest Baltic seaport since the first World War, and nautical culture certainly abounds throughout. Interestingly, Gydnia arguably has the two most popular dance clubs in the Tricity area, though ironically they're both located in a mall. The same mall. The only mall. Still, your Tonic Trekker came to get wet, not wild, and Gydnia surprisingly had a nice section of beach that equaled Sopot in terms of sand and water.

This, of course, begs the question. Are you looking for a mellower beach that's all about the water? Gydnia might be your spot. Or do you like more of a carnival atmosphere with bars, game areas and lots of people? Then Sopot is your beach. I hate to say it, but I prefer the theatrics, so I spent my final day going back to Sopot.

So are you inspired to visit the Tricity area? If you are all about the water and beach culture, you definitely want to stay in Sopot. Of course, most in-country tourists want to stay there, too, which drives the prices up. If you can't afford Sopot, then Gydnia is definitely a good second choice. On the other hand, if you think you'll just spend a day at the beach and the rest of the time exploring monuments and fascinating architecture, take the easy route and stay in Gdansk. It's absolutely gorgeous and offers food and lodging options that are less expensive.

Personally, I found something to love in all three and will spend another full day in each if I ever get to go back.