The Netherlands may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about beach destinations, but it offers a surprising variety of stunning beaches that cater to all types of visitors. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant and lively beach scene, a peaceful retreat, or an adventure-filled day by the sea, the Dutch coastline has something to offer. From the serene shores of the Wadden Islands to the bustling promenades of Scheveningen and Zandvoort, each beach has its unique charm and appeal. So, pack your bags, bring your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the most beautiful beaches in the Netherlands.
Plan your beach holiday in The Netherlands
- Find cheap flights to The Netherlands.
- Some beaches in The Netherlands are easily reached by train, others are a bit more remote. If you’re not driving, consider renting a car.
- There are plenty of lovely beach hotels in The Netherlands, as well as beach houses in The Netherlands. Below I will list the best options.
- Read all you need to know to plan your trip to The Netherlands.
Summer in The Netherlands: top things to do
The best beaches in The Netherlands
Cadzand-Bad
Cadzand Beach is the most south-western beach in The Netherlands, close to the border with Belgium. Cadzand-Bad is renowned for its wide sandy stretches and unique fossil finds, including prehistoric shark teeth. This beach is part of the Zwin Nature Park, which is a fantastic place for bird watching and exploring diverse flora and fauna. The beach is therefor a big hit with families as kids love searching shells and fossils. Cadzand-Bad has excellent facilities, including restaurants, cafes, beach bars, restrooms, and showers. There are also several water sports options, such as kite surfing and sailing. Stay in nearby Noordzee Résidence Cadzand-Bad and book a seal watching safari.
Nieuwvliet-Bad
A little north from Cadzand is Nieuwvliet-Bad, one of the loveliest beaches in Zeeland. The beach is backed by the beautiful dune landscapes of Verdronken Zwarte Polder. Nieuwvliet-Bad is absolutely scenic and therefor perfect for both couples and families with childres. Dogs are also allowed on certain areas of this beach. Grab a drink at one of the beach pavilions, my favourite is Woest 17. Beach Resort Nieuwvliet-Bad offers lovely beach cottages just over the dunes with a holiday park that has excellent facilities. Also, take a day trip to Bruges in Belgium, as it’s only a 35-minute drive away.
Dishoek Beach
Dishoek, located in the province of Zeeland, with its stunning sandy dunes and clear waters is one of my favourite beaches in The Netherlands. This beach ioffers a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist spots yet has plenty to entertain you, with several beach pavilions offering food and drinks, restrooms, and rental services for sunbeds and umbrellas. Take your bike as the biking paths nearby allow for exploring the beautiful surrounding area on two wheels. A visit to Dishoek is easily combined with the nearby located beautiful city of Middelburg. Spend the night at Hotel Zeeuws Licht in Dishoek or The Roosevelt in Middelburg.
Domburg
Domburg is one of the oldest seaside resorts in the Netherlands, and one of the most popular. Fun fact: throughout history Domburg has always attracted artists with its enchanting light and scenic beauty. The beach is wide and clean, with a lively promenade. Perfect for families or those prefering a more lively beach scene. Domburg, in the Zeeland province, has many great options to spend the night, such as Hof Domburg with bungalows, glamping tents and its own waterpark, Mezger Lodges or Strandhotel Domburg.
Ouddorp Beach
Ouddorp Beach, located on the island of Goeree-Overflakkee in Zeeland, is known for its pristine sandy beaches and extensive dune landscapes. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those who love water sports. The beach particularly popular with windsurfers, kite surfers, and sailors due to its favorable wind conditions. Get active and try your chance at windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing, and swimming. The beach is well-equipped with restrooms and showers, ample parking space and several beach clubs. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails in the surrounding dunes. Nearby, you can stay in one of the lovely apartments or cottages of Center Parcs Port Zélande or Strand Resort Ouddorp Duin.
Scheveningen
Scheveningen is one of the most popular beaches in The Netherlands, due to its proximity to The Hague as well as the lively atmosphere, iconic pier, and diverse range of activities, Scheveningen is a must-visit destination. Scheveningen caters to a wide audience, including families, young adults, and tourists looking for a vibrant beach experience. The beach resort offers a plethora of activities, including beach volleyball, surfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. The pier features restaurants, shops, an aquarium, and a Ferris wheel with stunning views. The beach has numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also the perfect place to take surfing lessons. Hotel Ocean House and Vakantiepark Kijkduin are both great places to stay. Take a look at all the top things to do in Scheveningen.
Noordwijk aan Zee
Noordwijk aan Zee, located in South Holland, is one of the loveliest beaches in The Netherlands known for its long sandy beach and picturesque dunes. If you visit in sprintime, it’s also the perfect place to combine a visit to the beach and a visit to the tulip fields in The Netherlands. Besides sunbathing and beachcoming visitors enjoy the various beach clubs and restaurants as well as the windsurfing and kitesurfing facilities. The nearby dunes offer excellent hiking and biking trails. There is lots of good accommodation in and near Noordwijk aan Zee, for example holidaypark Dunimar, The BLOOM and Alexander Hotel.
Zandvoort
Zandvoort is one of the most popular beaches in The Netherlands, especially with visitors coming to Amsterdam as the beach is easily reached from Amsterdam by train. The beach is wide and sandy, with a vibrant promenade and plenty of activities. Zandvoort is the perfect destination for those wanting to combine a trip to Amsterdam with a day at the seaside, for families and the young hip crowd. Zandvoort offers lots of possibilities for watersports, as well as restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. There are lots of fabulous beach clubs, my favourites being Ubuntu and Hippie fish. If you’d like to spend a couple of nights in Zandvoort I recommend Center Parcs Zandvoort, Hotel Paradis or Amsterdam Beach Hotel. Look at all the top things to do in Zandvoort.
Petten aan Zee
Petten aan Zee is a serene and Holland, is a serene and lesser-known beach in The Netherlands with beautiful dunes and wide sandy stretches. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature. Your visit should absolutely include Palendorp, the village of poles: 160 poles, ranging from six to twelve meters high are shaped like ten houses and a church: a reminder of the old village of Petten which was swallowed by the sea a long time ago. Especially popular is the swing in the middle of all these poles. The perfect spot for an Instagram shot.
Julianadorp aan Zee
Julianadorp is a charming beach in the north of The Netherlands with wide sandu beaches and a lovely tranquil environment. But you’re never far from the action as Julianadorp is close to Alkmaar (where you can visit the traditional cheese market) and the tulip fields in The Netherlands. And both Amsterdam and Haarlem are not too far away, either. Julianadorp is perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful and scenic beach experience. The beach has basic facilities, including restrooms, showers, and parking. There are also a few beach pavilions where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink. If you have the chance, stay right on the beach in Strandhuisjes Julianadorp.
The beaches of Texel
Texel, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands, boasts some of the most stunning and diverse beaches in the Netherlands. From long sandy stretches to secluded coves, Texel offers a unique beach experience. Perfect for families, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island’s beaches offer excellent facilities, including beach pavilions, restrooms, showers, and rental services for beach equipment. There are also numerous hiking and biking trails, nature reserves, and attractions such as the Ecomare seal sanctuary. There is some amazing accommodation in Texel, for example Op Oost Boutique Hotel, Landal Sluftervallei and Just Texel Suites and Apartments. Discover all top things to do on Texel.
Oosterstrand, Schiermonnikoog
Oosterstrand, located on the island of Schiermonnikoog, is one of the widest beaches in Europe. Known for its pristine beauty and serene environment, Oosterstrand is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Oosterstrand is ideal both sun seekers, nature lovers and bird watchers. The beach has basic facilities, including restrooms and a few beach pavilions offering food and drinks. The island itself is car-free, adding to its tranquil and eco-friendly appeal. There are also plenty of biking and hiking trails to explore the island’s diverse habitats. It’s a true pleasure staying at Landal Vitamaris.
Plan your trip to The Netherlands
The best beaches in The Netherlands
Save on Pinterest
37 Comments
Zoe Holland
July 2, 2018 at 1:51 pmWe spent a glorious day at the Aloha bar on Wijk aan Zee last Summer….the Dutch do beaches in style! We love the long sandy, laid back vibes on your coast. Thanks you for some great tips!
Esther
July 5, 2018 at 8:44 amOh, that sounds like a lot of fun!! Thank you for stopping by.
Angharad Paull
July 3, 2018 at 3:08 pmWow these beaches look amazing – especially like the look of Scheveningen and Amsterdam City Beach, although they all look great! I don’t know this part of the world at all, but definitely want to visit now!
Katherine
July 4, 2018 at 6:38 pmNow I feel silly for assuming that it never gets properly warm enough in the Netherlands to go to the beach. These are beautiful beaches! So much space and sand to spread out on as well.
Esther
July 5, 2018 at 8:43 amOh! But May, June and July are always particularly warm, this June temperatures haven’t dropped below 24C and we are experiencing a heat wave. Better come on over and check things out!
Sammie
July 4, 2018 at 9:07 pmI love all the little beach huts! We have friends who live in The Hague so I’ve ticked Scheveningen off the list. It really is a beautiful spot and has such a chilled, relaxed vibe. As for those other beaches, 6 more reasons to make me want to visit The Netherlands!
Ruth
July 5, 2018 at 6:26 amThese look so cool! I really like the vibe in Scheveningen. I would love to spend some time sitting around, eating, drinking and people watching. I like the beach but I am not a fan of getting a dip in the ocean (call me weird). Now that I think about it, I have not experienced much European beach culture. We went to Croatia and Montenegro in May but the water was still cold so the beaches weren’t in full swing.
Esther
July 5, 2018 at 8:44 amI was in Croatia in July a couple of years ago and it’s hard to find sandy beaches there (mostly pebbles), so we looked for beach clubs where we could rent chairs. I am also not too fond of sea swimming, though I made an exception in the Carribean 😉
Cynthia
July 5, 2018 at 1:14 pmI think people don’t really think about beaches when they think about those countries which line the North Sea, but there are such beautiful ones! I have been to a beach in Belgium before that you could have mistaken for Mexico (except for lack of palm trees!).
Esther
July 6, 2018 at 11:40 amI completely agree with you on this! I am such a big fan of the Belgian coast myself, especially Oostende, which is lovely. Right now we’re having a fantastic summer and Dutch weather even beats that in Portugal. So I’d say: people better hop over and dig their feet into the sand! Thank you for stopping by.
Annette
July 7, 2018 at 1:29 pmStripes and bright colours are just right for these beach huts – I love them. Your interesting post makes me want to have one of these little huts.
Esther
July 8, 2018 at 10:22 amI know right, they’re so cute!
Jill
July 7, 2018 at 5:23 pmAll of these look wonderful – and I would love to go to the beaches in the Netherlands. Great photos! Hopefully I will make it there someday.
Sharon
July 7, 2018 at 7:43 pmSo appealing! My favorite would be Texel, with those little cottages. I don’t think of beaches when I think of the Netherlands, so this post opened my eyes to more of the beauty of your country!
Anda
July 7, 2018 at 8:12 pmVery good guide to the beaches in the Netherlands! It’s interesting to see how much these beaches resemble the ones we have on the East Coast of the US. We have the same kind of beach huts also. You won’t see anything like that on the West Coast however. Very different beach landscape here.
Esther
July 8, 2018 at 10:22 amOh, that’s right Anda! I know they have the little huts in England as well. So cute.
Jessica
July 7, 2018 at 10:56 pmI have never really associated the Netherlands with beaches (although I have never visited) but the Scheveningen looks really fun. Some of the others look like a quieter place to go for a summer beach holiday for those in Europe compared to some of the really busy places that can be overwhelming.
Tanja
July 8, 2018 at 5:12 pmnice beaches
Caity Pfohl
July 9, 2018 at 2:33 amLoved learning about these beaches, none of which I had heard of before! It’s always interesting to learn about the parts of a country that aren’t immediately associated with it. I also adore these beach huts – so colorful and unique!
Lolo
July 9, 2018 at 4:50 amOMgosh, I’m in love with ALLLLL of these!! Particularly the first! And now I’m sad I’m not in the EU for the summer! 🙁 Boo! Next year!! Pinned!
Sandra
July 9, 2018 at 11:13 amI’ve only been to Scheveningen and loved it. I would love to visit other beaches as well since they all look amazing.
Nicola
July 12, 2018 at 9:47 amI never knew the Netherlands had such funky looking beaches!
Sarah
July 12, 2018 at 11:19 amDutch beach fan here! Our Belgian beaches aren’t half as inviting as the ones across the border. We’ve been to Cadzand (in summer) and Texel (in winter). Just can’t wait to try out your other suggestions.
Esther
July 16, 2018 at 10:08 amAww thank you. I seriously like the Belgian coast, it’s especially nice with kids as there are so many activities. Though me and the husband spent a lovely weekend in Oostende a few years ago too.
Lucy
July 12, 2018 at 11:40 amIn ignorant confessional, I have to say I had no idea Holland had so many, and such great looking beaches. Thanks for the education!
Clare
July 12, 2018 at 7:10 pmOoh I love the sound of all of these, Esther. I’ve read a few posts about Texel recently so that’s already on my list and I absolutely love the look of Cadzand.
Laura Le
July 13, 2018 at 2:08 amThey all look wonderful to visit. I love the little cabins lined up along the sand!
Rob+Ann
July 13, 2018 at 8:51 pmWe always enjoy your posts, but add in beaches and you’ve really got our attention! Funny, but we’ve never associated the Netherlands with beaches, probably because the iconic Amsterdam canal views are so ingrained in our heads. But wow – those are some great, really fun looking beaches! Definitely Pinning this one for later.
Lyn
July 14, 2018 at 12:33 pmI have never really thought about the Netherlands having beaches. Somehow it seems like a contradiction in terms. You do make the beaches sound lovely though. i love the beach huts.
Esther
July 16, 2018 at 10:09 amWe are having an amazing summer so far, good thing we have so many nice beaches to enjoy 😉
Beth
July 14, 2018 at 3:14 pmI am fascinated at the different “looks” of going to the beach around the world, and never considered The Netherlands for such an activity. Your photos are really great and showcase some lovely options. I am intrigued by the rows of beach huts that empty directly onto the sand. I would love to visit one of these places for sure. And thanks for the tip about the city beach in Amsterdam, as I haven’t visited the city yet.
Rhonda Albom
July 14, 2018 at 11:30 pmThe Dutch beaches do look very popular. I like your photo of the terraced restaurant on Scheveningen. Each beach seems to have its own style.
indah
July 15, 2018 at 4:13 pmLove all those cute beach houses! Been to Scheveningen but not the other ones. Hope I can spend more time in the Netherlands soon.
Katy
July 16, 2018 at 2:36 amI am very impressed the beach huts have glass frontages. How civilised! Loving discovering more about the Netherlands with your blog – I think the first stop on my list here would be beautiful windswept Texel
Esther
July 16, 2018 at 10:10 amThank you Kathy! Yes, Texel is also on my next to visit list. Though I’ll probably won’t make it there this summer, then again: I never mind off-season travel.
Sarah Christie
July 18, 2018 at 5:42 pmI love this post I have never thought of the Netherlands for the beaches more the cities and the countryside. This has made me really want to visit the beaches look stunning x
Catherine
July 18, 2018 at 11:01 pmWe loved all the Dutch beaches that we visited, great sand, snug cafes and Masses of space