The Best Beaches Near Amsterdam
What is the Most Popular Beach Near Amsterdam?
Explore the best beaches near Amsterdam in our detailed guide. This vibrant city is usually associated with canals and museums, but Amsterdam is also close to stunning coastlines. Whether you prefer sunbathing or seaside strolls, there’s plenty of sandy shores to enjoy.
Imagine soaking up the sun with a refreshing drink in hand, or feeling the sand between your toes as you walk along the shore. Indulge in delicious local seafood at the beachfront eateries while enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the sea. Each beach offers a unique experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
1. Zandvoort aan Zee
A coastal escape with unique activities
Good for: Families, Budget
Zandvoort aan Zee is a popular beach destination just a short train journey from Amsterdam. Known for its pristine sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere, this beach is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It offers a blend of leisure and excitement with attractions like the Zandvoort Circuit, a famous motorsport racetrack. Ideal for sunbathers, swimmers, and adrenaline seekers alike, Zandvoort aan Zee provides a diverse coastal experience.
You can indulge in luxurious beachside experiences at Bernie’s Beachclub Pool, enjoy wellness activities such as beach yoga, or take a stroll along the shoreline. For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit during warm summer nights to witness the magical bioluminescence, often referred to as the “Northern Lights of the North Sea.”
Zandvoort aan Zee
2. Bloemendaal aan Zee
A vibrant beach with bohemian flair
Good for: Couples, Nightlife
Popular among young adults, Bloemendaal aan Zee is a hotspot for those seeking vibrant nightlife and stylish dining. Woodstock69 and Rapa Nui are iconic beach clubs that offer music, cocktails, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a sunbather, surfer, or party-goer, Bloemendaal aan Zee is an incredible beach.
For those looking to explore beyond the dunes, the adjacent Zuid-Kennemerland National Park offers scenic hikes and wildlife spotting opportunities. After a busy day out, you can indulge in international cuisine at the beach clubs and seafront restaurants, ensuring a complete coastal experience.
Bloemendaal aan Zee
3. Castricum aan Zee
A serene beach surrounded by nature
Good for: Adventure, Budget, Families
Castricum aan Zee is a tranquil retreat perfect for nature lovers and families. Surrounded by sweeping dunes and nature reserves, this beach offers a peaceful escape from the city. It’s a short train ride from Amsterdam followed by a scenic bike ride, and rental bikes are readily available. With its calm waters and clean facilities, Castricum aan Zee is an ideal beach for families and those seeking a serene experience.
Enjoy trendy beachside dining at one of the pavilion eateries, which offer live music during summer. For a dose of local history, Huis van Hilde Museum near Castricum train station showcases Roman-era archaeology. Top tip: bring your cycling gear, explore the picturesque surroundings, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
Castricum aan Zee
4. Wijk aan Zee
An artistic beach with a relaxed vibe
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families
If you’re looking for a little culture, Wijk aan Zee is a laid-back beach known for its artistic flair and alternative atmosphere. The beach is home to creative events, sculptures, and music sessions, making it an appealing destination for art enthusiasts. It’s less commercial than other nearby beaches, providing a more relaxed experience.
Explore the Tata Steel Art Route, an outdoor exhibition blending industrial heritage with creativity in an incredible sculpture park. Accessible by bus from Beverwijk Station, Wijk aan Zee is excellent for a day of swimming and exploration. Bring a sketchbook to capture the inspiring surroundings and create your own art on the beach.
Wijk aan Zee
5. Egmond aan Zee
A charming beach with historic appeal
Good for: Adventure, Photo
Known for its historic Jan van Speijk lighthouse, one of the oldest in the Netherlands, picturesque Egmond aan Zee offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The beach is divided into lively, quiet, and sporty zones, catering to different preferences. You can enjoy scenic walks in the North Holland Dune Reserve, home to Highland cattle and a diverse range of bird species.
The town itself boasts cozy streets and local eateries, wonderful for a relaxing day out. A unique feature is the orientation poles, put out each summer to create landmarks that help kids find their way around. For a memorable experience, try the local seafood dishes at the village’s traditional restaurants.
Egmond aan Zee
6. IJmuiden aan Zee
An adventure beach with historical insights
Good for: Adventure, Food, History
IJmuiden aan Zee is a hub for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts. Popular for its watersports activities like windsurfing, blokarting, and kite surfing, it offers an adrenaline-packed experience. The beach is also home to the Atlantic Wall Bunker Route, where you can explore WWII bunkers hidden in the dunes, offering a chance to get hands-on with history.
Year-round beach pavilions provide food and drinks even in winter, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. With easy bus access from Amsterdam Sloterdijk, IJmuiden aan Zee is ideal for a thrilling day trip. You could even take your day out onto the water, as the Seaport Marina offers boat rentals and picturesque sea views.
IJmuiden aan Zee
7. Scheveningen (The Hague)
A historic beach with cultural attractions
Good for: Food, History, Nightlife
Scheveningen is a historic beach town in The Hague, offering a mix of cultural attractions and seaside fun. Famous for its historic pier and Ferris wheel, it provides panoramic views and thrilling rides over the sea. The grand Kurhaus Hotel, with its 19th-century charm, has hosted royalty and celebrities.
The beach is also known for its Fireworks Festival, an international competition held annually in summer. Teams from around the world put on fireworks displays over several nights in hopes of winning the trophy. For culture enthusiasts, the AFAS Circustheater and Museum Quarter host a range of events and modern sculptures. Explore the WWII fortifications for a dose of history while enjoying the sea breeze.
Scheveningen (The Hague)
8. Badstrand Hargen aan Zee
A secluded beach surrounded by dunes
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Badstrand Hargen aan Zee is a peaceful beach ideal for solitude and relaxation. Surrounded by wide dunes, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The beach is accessible by bike, with scenic cycling routes leading through the Schoorl dunes. It’s wonderful for those who enjoy combining beach time with nature hikes as there are plenty of trails amid the beautiful greenery.
Local windsurfing and surfing clubs welcome visitors with gear and tips, making it a friendly spot for water sports enthusiasts to work on new skills. Enjoy dining at the beach gazebo while taking in the stunning sea views.
Badstrand Hargen aan Zee
9. Strand Domburg
A long legacy as a vacation hotspot
Good for: Families, History, Photo
Strand Domburg is the oldest seaside resort in the Netherlands, boasting a rich history and artistic heritage. Dating back to the 19th century, this wellness tourism destination inspired painters like Mondrian and Toorop. The beach multiplies divided into zones, including the lively Badstrand and quiet Noordduine, catering to different moods.
Explore the nearby De Manteling Nature Reserve, where the forest meets the sea. It offers excellent hiking and photo opportunities. With multiple Blue Flags and “Cleanest Beach” titles, you can expect pristine shores at Domburg. Once you’re done with the beach, visit the local galleries to appreciate the artistic legacy of this charming beach town.
Strand Domburg
10. Strand Noordwijk Aan Zee
Sensational spring blooms
Good for: Couples, Photo
A vibrant beach town surrounded by flower fields, Strand Nordwijk is especially stunning during the tulip season. Known for the Bloemencorso parade, it’s a colorful and lively destination. The Noordvoort beach reserve offers protected areas for seals and birds, accessible via scenic dune paths, making it a haven for nature lovers too.
Family and dog zones are clearly marked, providing amenities like playgrounds for a kid-friendly day out. With surf schools and water sports available, it’s great for both beginners and pros. Accessible by car and bus, Strand Noordwijk Aan Zee is a convenient and delightful choice for a trip to the beach.
Strand Noordwijk Aan Zee
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