Beaches in the Netherlands
3 most popular beaches in the Netherlands
- Cadzand Beach: Celebrated for its pristine sands and tranquil environment, Cadzand is a peaceful seaside resort on the southwest coast of Zeeland. The natural beauty of the beach, along with luxury lodges, trendy beach clubs, and upscale seafood restaurants, attracts visitors looking for a sophisticated and relaxing coastal experience away from busy tourist destinations. Nature lovers can also appreciate the variety of flora and fauna that thrive in the adjacent nature reserve.
- Buren Beach (Ameland Island): Backed by rolling candid dunes and lapped by the gentle waves of the North Sea, this pristine sandy paradise on the northern shores of Ameland Island, should certainly be mentioned as one of the best beaches in the Netherlands. The beach is the perfect destination for families and water sports enthusiasts, with an efficient lifeguard service during the peak season.
- Wassenaar Beach: Located between The Hague and Leiden, from which it is easily accessible by bicycle or car (the trip takes about 20 minutes), Wasseenar, a picturesque seaside resort, provides a laid-back and relaxed ambiance for sunbathing, leisurely walks, and various water activities, from paddle-boarding to surfing. Majestic dunes, part of the larger Meijendel nature reserve, border the beach and offer some much-appreciated protection from the strong coastal winds.
Highlights of the Netherlands beach tours
- Treat yourself to a picnic breakfast on the beach, sampling typical Dutch pastries, such as stroopwafel, poffertjes, and appeltaart.
- Admire the pristine beaches of Vlieland, the outermost of the Frisian islands, from the spectacular Vuurboetsduin, a 40-meter dune with the iconic red lighthouse at the top.
- Head to Domburg to witness breathtaking sunsets over the North Sea for a magical and romantic atmosphere along some of the best beaches in the Netherlands.
- Take part in the lively sandcastle-building competitions on the shores of Zandvoort, a must-attend event for families and creatives of all sorts.
- Enjoy a scenic ride on the SkyView de Pier, the iconic Ferris wheel on Scheveningen’s waterfront.
- Experience the thrill of water sports at Egmond aan Zee, a coastal destination offering several opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and more.
- Attend the International Kite Festival in Scheveningen, the largest event of this kind in the country, with breathtaking kite shows and workshops for children and adults.
- Escape the frenzy of the city on the quiet Zuiderstrand beach, also known as "Quiet Beach" for its relaxing atmosphere, easily accessible by bike or public transportation from the center of the lively The Hague.
- Feel the sea breeze on your skin while horseback riding on the beaches of Texel.
Travel tips for beach tours in the Netherlands
- Venture beyond the well-known beaches to discover hidden gems along the Dutch coastline, such as Heemskerk aan Zee, Egmond-Binnen, and Julianadorp aan Zee, all located in North Holland, just above Amsterdam.
- Skip the hassle and cost of car rentals and take advantage of the efficient Dutch public transport system for your beach getaways. Alternatively, renting a bike is another convenient and affordable way to reach the nice beaches in the Netherlands.
- Explore the possibility of combined tickets that include both public transportation and beach entrance fees. Some regions offer package deals, providing a seamless and cost-effective solution for your beach excursion.
- Book your lodging in advance to save on costs and be able to stay in a strategic location. A great suggestion is to opt for beach resorts outside the country's largest centers, which are generally cheaper and allow you to enjoy both beach life and city exploration.
- Check the weather forecast and tide times before venturing offshore, as weather conditions on the beaches in the Netherlands can change suddenly.