What to see in Poddąbie - a guide to the seaside village near Ustka

Poddąbie is a quiet seaside village in the Ustka commune, Słupsk County (Pomeranian Voivodeship). It lies on a high, cliff-like shore of the Baltic Sea, nestled among pine and beech forests, between Dębina and Orzechowo. This is a place for those seeking a seaside without the crowds—wide beaches, forest silence, and a landscape that hasn't changed much for generations. And if you miss the bustle of the city, Ustka is less than ten kilometers away.

Cliff – the hallmark of Poddąbie

The village's biggest attraction is the cliff . Near the buildings, it rises to about 35 meters, and a kilometer to the east, it reaches over 40 meters. This is one of the most natural and least transformed stretches of Polish coastline. A path running along the edge of the cliff, right next to the forest, offers sweeping views of the sea—particularly spectacular at sunset, when the sun sinks directly into the Baltic Sea.

Wild beaches and descents through the forest

The beaches in Poddąbie are wide, sandy, and—outside of high season—exceptionally quiet. Wooden stairs leading through the coastal forest lead down to the shore beneath the cliff. These descents are quite steep, with many steps, but thanks to them, the beach retains its wild, intimate character. After storms, it's worth strolling along the shore in search of amber —the Baltic Sea can wash it up along with ridges of seaweed.

Forests and trails

The village is surrounded by pine, beech, and oak forests, largely planted to support the steep cliff face. A dense network of walking paths runs through the trees. The Red Seaside Trail runs through Poddąbie, following the cliff edge and offering some of the most beautiful views on this stretch of coast. Cyclists will appreciate the international Velo Baltica route (EuroVelo 10 / R-10) and the Ustka-Rowy "rolled tracks" trail, which runs along a former railway embankment.

What's in the area

Trips are easy to plan from Poddąbie. The nearest town, Dębina , is about 2.5 km away, and Orzechowo about 5 km. Ustka boasts a promenade, fishing port, and pier. To the east stretches Słowiński National Park, with its shifting sand dunes, a World Biosphere Reserve. Also worth visiting is the Slovincian village open-air museum in Kluki , showcasing the region's ancient architecture.

When is the best time to come?

Poddąbie has its charm year-round. In summer, July and August, the beach is bustling with vacationers, but even then it's more peaceful than in the larger resorts. May, June, and September are a good compromise for those who value peace and quiet—the weather is usually pleasant, and the shore is often almost deserted. In autumn and winter, the village reveals its harsh side: storms approach the cliffs themselves, and the forest above the deserted beach has a unique, melancholic atmosphere. This is also the best time for amber seekers.

How to get there

The easiest way to reach Poddąbie is by car. The nearest major railway junction is Słupsk, about 30 kilometers away, with bus connections to Ustka and the coast. It's worth remembering that this is a village, not a city – you'll find larger shopping and a wider range of services in nearby Ustka, so it's a good idea to plan your stay in advance.

Poddąbie doesn't tempt you with amusement parks or a bustling promenade—its real asset is its tranquility. If you're dreaming of a vacation that's all about long walks along the shore, forest paths, and the sound of waves beneath the cliffs, this seaside village is the perfect choice.