Måkläppen Nature Reserve: Travel Guide to Spot Wild Seals in Southern Sweden
Everything you need to know about Måkläppen Nature Reserve, including how to get there and our top tips | Hi! We’re Alex & Victoria – a digital nomad couple from Copenhagen escaping 9-5 to chase adventures in our beautiful world. Learn more about us here. |
Wild seals on the shore
Måkläppen is a nature reserve located at the southern tip of Scania, near Falsterbo, Sweden.
If you’re staying in Malmö, Sweden, or Copenhagen, Denmark, the reserve is easily accessible, situated just a short distance away on the Falsterbo Peninsula.
Here, you can see wild seals and a variety of bird species – if you time your visit right.
To protect the wildlife, Måkläppen is only open from November to February. During these colder months, visitors can walk along the beach and experience nature up close.
As we have already explored many of the best things to see and do in Malmö, we decided that our November 2024 weekend in this charming city was the perfect opportunity to try something new.
After a refreshing walk along the beach, we reached the end of it and were greeted by a large group of seals enjoying life on the beach. A pretty remarkable sight!
In this travel guide to Måkläppen Nature Reserve, we’ll show you how to get there, where to park, our best tips and photos from our visit.
Where to stay near Måkläppen Nature Reserve?
- Hotell Gässlingen – Boutique hotel with charming rooms, a spa and a heated pool on the Falsterbo peninsula close to the seals.
- Skanörs Gästgifvaregård – Historic guest house with 10 cosy rooms close to Skanör beach and the seals in the nature reserve.
Alternatively: Where to stay in Malmö?
- Budget: HOTEL N Hostel Malmö City – Centrally located hotel/hostel where you can choose between a double bed or a bunk bed if you want to save even more money.
- Value for money: Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House – Where we’ve personally stayed. A very nice, quirky hotel with a gym and sauna in Malmö’s most lovely area.
- Luxury: The Duxiana – Sleep in luxury beds from DUX. Probably the best hotel in town.
Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Malmö here or see our personal recommendations in our guide on where to stay in Malmö.
Table of contents
Why visit Måkläppen Nature Reserve
Måkläppen Nature Reserve is worth a visit if you love nature, wildlife and a brisk walk.
It is Sweden’s oldest nature reserve, and the ever-changing sandbanks are quite special. They continuously change size and shape as a result of wind, weather and the influence of ocean currents.
For us, however, the true highlight is the seals – they’re what really make this place unique.
The nature reserve is an important breeding area for various species of birds and seals.
Both grey seals and harbour seals call this reserve home and you can get fairly close to them. However, how close you can get depends on the shape of the sandbanks and whether the seals are resting on land or hunting and playing in the water.
Birdwatchers will also find it exciting. However, most bird enthusiasts go here during the autumn, when you can experience millions of migratory birds flying over Southern Sweden on their way south through Europe.
In many ways, Måkläppen Nature Reserve reminds us of Grenen Beach in Skagen in Denmark or the island of Sylt in Northern Germany – two other wonderful places in the Nordics where you can spot seals in the wild.
If you are travelling in Southern Sweden or for example have some spare time on a visit to Copenhagen, it’s a bit easier to get to Måkläppen than to the north of Jutland or a German island.
Where is Måkläppen Nature Reserve?
Måkläppen Nature Reserve is situated on the Falsterbo Peninsula in southern Sweden’s Scania region, bordered by the waters of the Øresund Strait.
The nature reserve is located about 30 kilometres south of Malmö close to the towns of Falsterbo and Skanör. From Copenhagen, it only takes about 1 hour by car.
Keep in mind that the landscape may appear different in person than it does on Google Maps, as the sandbanks constantly shift in shape and size.
When to visit Måkläppen Nature Reserve
The nature reserve is open from 1 November to 31 January, so be prepared for a chilly adventure.
The weather can be windy and changeable, so it’s advisable to check the forecast beforehand and dress in warm, windproof clothing.
From February to the end of October, the area is closed to the public to protect the wildlife (particularly breeding birds and seals).
Please note: For the safety of the animals, dogs are not permitted on the beach.
Our experience at Måkläppen Nature Reserve
During our weekend trip to Malmö with friends in November, we decided to take a detour south to Måkläppen on a Saturday, eager to try something new – and, of course, hopefully spot some seals.
We bundled up in our warmest clothes and set off for the beach with excitement.
Falsterbo Golf Club
To reach the nature reserve, start by following Fyrvägen through the Falsterbo Golf Club (Falsterbo Golfklub).
Well-maintained paths guide you down towards the beach.
Note: Although we didn’t encounter many golfers during our visit, it’s worth keeping in mind that golf balls may occasionally be flying through the air.
Falsterbo Lighthouse
On the way to the beach, you pass the old Falsterbo Lighthouse (Falsterbo Fyr) from 1795. Though no longer in operation, it’s still a charming sight to admire while you’re there.
Falsterbo Bird Station (Falsterbo Fågelstation) is next door, so if you are interested in birds, this is the place to hang out. It’s considered one of the best spots in Europe to witness bird migration during the autumn.
The lighthouse garden serves as a ringing site, where around 25,000 small birds are captured and ringed each year.
From Falsterbo Lighthouse, it took us roughly 30 minutes to walk to the tip of the sandbar where we spotted the seals.
Toilet tip: There is a simple public toilet next to the lighthouse and there are no others further down the beach. Another public toilet is located right next to the small car park at the start of the golf club.
Walk on the beach
After passing the lighthouse, we followed a pleasant path along a lake that eventually led us down to the beach.
We then walked along the sandy shore, heading towards the tip of the peninsula with the wind at our backs.
The peninsula is home to several wetland areas, meaning that in some places the sand can be wet.
As we ventured further down the beach, we began to spot small black shapes emerging from the waves: seals swimming and playing in the water.
Even with a good zoom lens, it was tricky to get a clear view, so we recommend bringing binoculars if you have them.
Thankfully, we were able to get a much closer look at the seals soon after.
Wild seals
At the very tip of the peninsula, where we could go no further, we spotted a large group of seals lounging on a small “island” of sand just a few metres from shore.
This sandbank has since become separated from the beach, so we could only view the seals from a distance.
In the past, the sandbanks were positioned differently, allowing visitors to get much closer to the seals.
When we visited in 2024, getting any closer to the seals was impossible unless you fancied a swim in the icy sea. Perhaps that’s for the best, as it helps to minimise the disturbance to the wildlife.
The distance does mean you’ll need sharp eyes, a zoom lens, or binoculars to spot them in detail.
As mentioned, the landscape is always changing, so there’s a chance the seals could be much closer next time – or that you might not see them at all.
That’s the thrill of experiencing wildlife in its natural habitat.
We had a refreshing hike and seeing the seals was undoubtedly the highlight. We highly recommend it!
How to get to Måkläppen Nature Reserve
By car from Malmö
A visit to Måkläppen Nature Reserve pairs perfectly with a trip to Malmö.
The reserve is just over 30 kilometres from Malmö, depending on your starting point and chosen parking spot.
The drive typically takes around 30 minutes.
Further down, we provide more details about parking options at Måkläppen Nature Reserve.
By public transport from Malmö
To reach Måkläppen by public transport from Malmö, you can take bus 15 towards Skanör Centrum and change to bus 300 towards Falsterbo Strandbad at Skanör Haga. Get off at the Falsterbo N Vånggatan stop. The journey takes about one hour.
Alternatively, you can take the train to Hyllie Station, change to bus 300 towards Falsterbo Strandbad and get off at Falsterbo N Vånggatan. This route takes approximately one hour, too.
The most convenient way to purchase tickets is via the Skånetrafiken app (App store / Google Play), which allows you to store them on your phone. Tickets can also be bought directly on the bus or at train stations.
By car from Copenhagen
If you’re driving directly from Copenhagen to Måkläppen Nature Reserve, start by taking the E20 towards Malmö and cross the Øresund Bridge.
The toll for the Øresund Bridge varies depending on your type of payment or pass. Read more about the prices here.
Once in Malmö, continue on the E6 and exit onto road 100 towards Skanör/Falsterbo. Simply follow road 100 until you reach Falsterbo.
The drive takes approximately one hour.
Further down, we provide more details about parking at Måkläppen Nature Reserve.
By public transport from Copenhagen
It’s entirely possible to travel from Copenhagen to Måkläppen using public transport.
From Copenhagen Central Station (Hovedbanegården), take the Øresund train to Hyllie Station in Malmö, then transfer to bus 300 towards Falsterbo Strandbad. Disembark at the Falsterbo N Vånggatan stop.
The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes in total.
From the bus stop, enjoy a stroll through the charming streets of Falsterbo as you make your way to the nature reserve.
We recommend using the Skånetrafiken app to purchase a combined ticket and stay updated on traffic information.
Parking at Måkläppen Nature Reserve
Nearby parking availability
Near Falsterbo Golfklub, there is a car park, but it is unfortunately reserved for the club’s members and guests.
Just in front of this parking area, on Fyrvägen next to Kolabacken, you’ll find 10-12 free parking spaces. We were fortunate to snag a spot when another car left, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
About 1 kilometre further along Fyrvägen, we also spotted a small car park at Falsterbo Konsthall, which you can check if the first lot is full.
The official parking areas
There are two officially recommended parking areas: Falsterbo Strandbad and Skanör Harbour. As far as we know, both are free during the winter months.
From these car parks, it’s approximately a 30-40 minute walk to Falsterbo Golfklub, where the route to Måkläppen Nature Reserve begins. You can either take a stroll through the streets of Skanör/Falsterbo or enjoy a scenic walk along the water.
If you park at either of these locations and plan to walk all the way to the tip of the nature reserve before turning back, make sure to allow plenty of time.
We made a brief stop at the Falsterbo Strandbad car park, where you’ll find the modern Falsterbo Photo Art Museum, complete with a café and good toilet facilities.
Where to stay near Måkläppen Nature Reserve?
If you’d like to stay close to Måkläppen and enjoy a night or two surrounded by nature, there are a few great accommodations nearby.
Hotell Gässlingen
Hotell Gässlingen is a charming boutique hotel located in Skanör on the northern part of the Falsterbo Peninsula.
Just a short drive from the nature reserve, it’s the perfect choice for those looking to stay in a cosy setting near the seals. The beautiful beach in Skanör is also right on your doorstep.
In winter, you can enjoy the warmth of the fireplace, while the homely rooms offer lovely views. There’s even a spa with a sauna and a heated outdoor pool – ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking or bird watching.
The hotel also has a restaurant, so you won’t have to travel far for a delicious meal. The breakfast buffet is highly praised by guests as well.
See prices and availability at Hotell Gässlingen here (adlink).
Skanörs Gästgifvaregård
Skanörs Gästgifvaregård is just a stone’s throw from Hotell Gässlingen – that is, near Skanör Beach and not far from the seals at Måkläppen Nature Reserve.
Both hotels are run by the same owners, who prioritise quality and comfort at each location, though there are subtle differences between the two.
This historic inn only has 10 rooms, where traditional charm is thoughtfully combined with modern amenities.
Breakfast is included, though it’s served at the sister hotel, Hotell Gässlingen.
See prices and availability at Skanörs Gästgifvaregård here (adlink).
Where to stay in Malmö?
For many, visiting the Swedish nature reserve is a perfect complement to a trip to Malmö.
We love the cosy city and have visited it several times.
Check out our guide with the best hotels in Malmö or see our top picks here:
- Budget: HOTEL N Hostel Malmö City – Centrally located hotel/hostel where you can choose between a double bed or a bunk bed if you want to save even more money.
- Value for money: Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House – Where we’ve personally stayed. A very nice, quirky hotel with a gym and sauna in Malmö’s most lovely area.
- Luxury: The Duxiana – Sleep in luxury beds from DUX. Probably the best hotel in town.
Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Malmö here.
Our best tips for Måkläppen Nature Reserve
- Respect the rules of the nature reserve and stick to the marked paths.
- Wear sturdy (waterproof) shoes and warm clothes. The sand can be wet, the ground can be muddy and it is often windy during the colder months.
- Check the weather forecast before you head out. Conditions can change quickly.
- Be aware of high tides and strong currents.
- Wheelchairs and pushchairs are unfortunately not ideal to bring because of the soft, wet sand.
- Keep your distance from the seals and avoid disturbing them with loud noises.
- Bring water and snacks if you plan to hike for a while. There are no cafes near the nature reserve.
- Basic toilets are available close to the Falsterbo Lighthouse and at the car park in front of the golf club.
- Remember a good camera to capture the stunning landscape and wildlife. A zoom lens is ideal if you want to get a closer look at the seals. Here is a guide to the equipment we use.
- Bring binoculars if you have them, as they’ll help you get a closer view of the seals and birds.
Sustainable travel tips
To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:
- Bring drinking water in a refillable bottle.
- Avoid single-use plastics.
- Dispose of waste properly and do not throw it in the nature reserve.
- Take only photos, leave only footprints. Avoid taking things from nature with you.
- Show consideration towards other visitors.
- Respect the local wildlife and keep a good distance from the seals.
Thank you for reading along
Thank you for reading our travel guide to Måkläppen Nature Reserve. We hope it has been helpful!
What do you think of the wild seals and the sandbars in Southern Sweden?
If you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks.
Don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments if you haven’t visited Måkläppen Nature Reserve yet. We are happy to help.
Our favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for cheap hotels.
- Momondo for the best flight deals.
- SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller. All three compared here.
Our camera gear:
- Panasonic GH5. Used for all of our photos and videos.
- DJI Mavic 2 Pro. Best drone out there!
- Sirui Tripod. Lightweight and strong.
- See all of our camera gear here.
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