Dutch Beaches and Coastal Towns

The Netherlands, with its extensive coastline along the North Sea, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and charming coastal towns in Europe. From sandy shores perfect for sunbathing to picturesque villages steeped in maritime history, the Dutch coast offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, explore quaint towns, or enjoy water sports, the Dutch beaches and coastal towns have something for everyone. This article highlights some of the best beaches and coastal towns in the Netherlands.

1. Scheveningen Beach

Location: The Hague (South Holland)
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and events.
Highlights: Long sandy beach, pier, and seaside attractions.

Scheveningen Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Netherlands, located in the bustling city of The Hague. The beach stretches for several kilometers and offers a wide range of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. The iconic Scheveningen Pier is a major attraction, featuring restaurants, shops, and an observation tower with panoramic views. The beach also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination.

2. Zandvoort aan Zee

Location: Zandvoort (North Holland)
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach parties and events.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, beach clubs, and motorsport events.

Zandvoort aan Zee is a lively beach resort town known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering plenty of space for relaxation and recreation. Zandvoort is also famous for its beach clubs, where visitors can enjoy drinks, music, and dance parties. The town is home to the Circuit Zandvoort, a renowned motorsport venue that hosts the Dutch Grand Prix. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea or an exciting night out, Zandvoort has it all.

3. Texel Island

Location: Wadden Sea (North Holland)
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for birdwatching and outdoor activities.
Highlights: Pristine beaches, nature reserves, and cycling routes.

Texel, the largest of the Wadden Islands, is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island boasts several pristine beaches, including De Koog and Paal 17, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Texel is also known for its diverse wildlife, particularly bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching. The island offers numerous cycling and hiking routes, allowing visitors to explore its scenic landscapes, dunes, and nature reserves. Texel’s charming villages, such as Den Burg and Oudeschild, add to its appeal.

4. Egmond aan Zee

Location: North Holland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and festivals.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, dunes, and cultural events.

Egmond aan Zee is a quaint coastal village known for its beautiful sandy beaches and picturesque dunes. The beach is ideal for families, offering safe swimming conditions and plenty of space for children to play. The surrounding dunes provide excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. Egmond aan Zee also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Egmond Sail Days. The village’s charming streets, lined with traditional Dutch houses, are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

5. Renesse

Location: Zeeland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and water sports.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, dunes, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Renesse is a popular beach destination in the province of Zeeland, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, while the nearby dunes offer great hiking and cycling opportunities. Renesse is also a hub for water sports, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, and sailing. The town itself is charming, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Renesse’s relaxed vibe makes it an ideal destination for families and those looking to unwind.

6. Katwijk aan Zee

Location: South Holland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and cultural events.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, historic lighthouse, and art museums.

Katwijk aan Zee is a traditional fishing village turned popular beach resort, located in the province of South Holland. The beach is wide and sandy, offering plenty of space for relaxation and recreation. Katwijk is also known for its historic lighthouse, which provides stunning views of the coastline. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with several art museums and galleries showcasing works by local and international artists. Katwijk’s charming streets, lined with traditional Dutch houses, add to its appeal.

7. Domburg

Location: Zeeland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and wellness retreats.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, wellness resorts, and artistic heritage.

Domburg is a charming seaside town in Zeeland, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and wellness resorts. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, while the surrounding dunes offer great hiking and cycling opportunities. Domburg has a rich artistic heritage, having been a popular destination for artists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s art galleries and museums showcase works by famous artists who were inspired by Domburg’s scenic beauty. The town’s wellness resorts and spas make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

8. Noordwijk aan Zee

Location: South Holland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and flower fields.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, flower fields, and space exhibitions.

Noordwijk aan Zee is a popular beach resort town in South Holland, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while the nearby dunes offer great hiking and cycling opportunities. Noordwijk is also famous for its flower fields, particularly during the spring when the tulips are in bloom. The town is home to the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), which offers interactive exhibitions on space exploration. Noordwijk’s charming streets, lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, add to its appeal.

9. Vlissingen

Location: Zeeland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and maritime events.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, maritime history, and waterfront promenade.

Vlissingen is a historic port town in Zeeland, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and rich maritime history. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while the waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the sea and the town’s historic buildings. Vlissingen’s maritime heritage is showcased in its museums and historic ships, which are open to the public. The town also hosts various maritime events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination for history enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

10. Bergen aan Zee

Location: North Holland
Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and art exhibitions.
Highlights: Sandy beaches, art galleries, and nature reserves.

Bergen aan Zee is a charming coastal village in North Holland, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and artistic heritage. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, while the surrounding dunes and nature reserves offer great hiking and cycling opportunities. Bergen aan Zee has a rich artistic heritage, with several art galleries and museums showcasing works by local and international artists. The village’s charming streets, lined with traditional Dutch houses, add to its appeal.