The Netherlands isn’t just about canals, windmills, and tulip fields its North Sea coastline also boasts some of the best beaches in Netherlands 2026. Stretching over 450 km, Dutch beaches offer something for every traveler, from lively seaside towns with buzzing promenades to tranquil natural reserves perfect for relaxation.
With soft golden sands backed by impressive dune systems, these coastal spots are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, water sports, or simply enjoying scenic walks. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches in the Netherlands, free beaches in Netherlands, or the perfect beach near Netherlands cities, this guide highlights the top destinations and must-visit coastal escapes.
1. Scheveningen Beach
Scheveningen is the most famous and lively beach in the Netherlands, just a short tram ride from The Hague. Known for its bustling promenade, beach clubs, and traditional Dutch seaside charm, Scheveningen is one of the best beaches in the Netherlands for both tourists and locals seeking vibrant coastal experiences.
- Address: The Hague, Zuid-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; most beach pavilions open 10:00-22:00
- How to Reach: Tram 1 or 9 from The Hague Central Station (15 minutes); about 1 hour by train from Amsterdam
- Things to Do: Surfing, kiteboarding, beach volleyball, bungee jumping from the pier, swimming (in summer), shopping, casino visits
- Best Time to Visit: June to August for swimming and sunbathing; May and September for fewer crowds
- Places to Stay:Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus,Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Scheveningen
- Places to Eat:Smuggler’s Grill,Patagonia Beach
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2. Zandvoort Beach
Zandvoort, often called Amsterdam Beach, is the closest seaside town to the capital. Its 9 km stretch of soft sand backed by dunes and lined with beach pavilions makes it one of the beautiful beaches in Netherlands to visit for sunbathing, watersports, or beachside dining.
- Address: Zandvoort, Noord-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; beach clubs typically open 10:00-22:00
- How to Reach: Direct train from Amsterdam Central Station (30 minutes)
- Things to Do: Swimming, sunbathing, horseback riding in the dunes, watching motor races, cycling
- Best Time to Visit: May to September; visit on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Places to Stay:Hotel Royal,Amsterdam Beach Hotel Zandvoort
- Places to Eat:De Haven van Zandvoort,Restaurant De Zuid
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3. Hoek van Holland Beach
Hoek van Holland (Hook of Holland) sits where the Rhine River meets the North Sea, offering unique views of ships entering Rotterdam’s harbor. With both a lively southern beach and a quieter northern side, it’s a versatile spot for exploring free beaches in the Netherlands and enjoying seaside walks.
- Address: Near Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; facilities open approximately 9:00-21:00
- How to Reach: Metro B from Rotterdam Central Station (40 minutes)
- Things to Do: Diving, snorkeling, beach volleyball, ship-watching, walking along the New Waterway
- Best Time to Visit: May through September for the best weather conditions
- Places to Stay:Roompot Beach Villa’s Hoek van Holland,Hotel Kuiperduin
- Places to Eat:Strandpaviljoen De Zeemeeuw,Restaurant De Waterreus
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4. Ameland Beach
Ameland, one of the West Frisian Islands, is accessible only by ferry. Its vast, unspoiled sandy stretches, dunes, and nature reserves make it one of the most natural and serene beaches to visit in Netherlands, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
- Address: Ameland Island, Friesland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; businesses follow seasonal schedules
- How to Reach: Ferry from Holwerd (45 minutes); flights to Ameland Airport available
- Things to Do: Cycling around the island, birdwatching, beach walking, mudflat hiking (wadlopen), seal-watching tours
- Best Time to Visit: June to September for best weather; April-May for birdwatching
- Places to Stay:Hotel Nobel,Westcord Hotel Schylge
- Places to Eat:d’Vijff Vlieghen,Sjoerd Ameland
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5. Texel Beach
Texel, the largest Dutch Wadden Island, features over 30 km of sandy shores. Each beach area has its own charm, offering activities like hiking, cycling, and watersports, making Texel a top destination among the best beaches in the Netherlands for nature lovers and adventurers.
- Address: Texel Island, Noord-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; business hours vary seasonally
- How to Reach: Ferry from Den Helder (20 minutes; runs 24/7)
- Things to Do: Seal watching, birdwatching, walking, cycling, horseback riding, surfing, kiteboarding
- Best Time to Visit: May to September; April for lamb season and flowering bulb fields
- Places to Stay:Strandhotel Texel,Hotel Greenside
- Places to Eat:Paal 17,Strandpavillon Faro 2
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6. Egmond aan Zee Beach
Egmond aan Zee is a charming former fishing village with one of the tallest dune-backed beaches in the Netherlands. Less crowded than major resorts, it offers a more authentic seaside experience, ideal for those looking to explore beaches to visit in the Netherlands off the beaten path.
- Address: Egmond aan Zee, Noord-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; businesses typically open 10:00-21:00
- How to Reach: Bus 165 from Alkmaar station (30 minutes); 45 minutes by car from Amsterdam
- Things to Do: Swimming, walking, cycling, horseback riding, fishing from the beach
- Best Time to Visit: May to September; lovely for winter walks too
- Places to Stay:Hotel Zuiderduin,Strandhotel Golfzang
- Places to Eat:Restaurant De Boei,Strandpaviljoen Zee van Tijd
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7. Berkenbosch Beach
Berkenbosch Beach, located in Zeeland, provides a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds. Its serene environment and natural beauty make it a standout among free beaches in the Netherlands, perfect for sunbathing, picnics, and long walks along the shore.
- Address: Zeeland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; limited facilities with seasonal hours
- How to Reach: Best reached by car; limited public transport options
- Things to Do: Sunbathing, walking, beachcombing, reading, relaxing
- Best Time to Visit: June to September; shoulder seasons for complete tranquility
- Places to Stay:Strandhotel Buren aan Zee,WestCord Strandhotel Seeduyn
- Places to Eat:Strandpaviljoen Thalassa,Breakers Beach House
8. Zandmotor Beach
Zandmotor (Sand Motor) is a man-made coastal project near The Hague, created to protect the shoreline naturally. This innovative beach is not only unique in design but also a perfect spot for outdoor activities, making it one of the beautiful beaches in the Netherlands worth visiting.
- Address: Near Kijkduin, The Hague, Zuid-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7
- How to Reach: Bus 23 from The Hague, then a short walk; best with a car
- Things to Do: Walking, nature observation, kite surfing (for experienced surfers), beachcombing
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round for observation; summer for recreation
- Places to Stay:Kijkduin Beach Houses,Dunes & Sea at Kijkduin
- Places to Eat:Suiderstrand,Strandpaviljoen Zuid
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9. Katwijk Beach
Katwijk aan Zee is a traditional seaside town blending fishing village charm with modern amenities. Its wide sandy shore and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best places in the Netherlands for couples and families seeking a scenic beach near Netherlands cities.
- Address: Katwijk aan Zee, Zuid-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; businesses typically open 10:00-21:00
- How to Reach: Bus 30 from Leiden Central Station (25 minutes); 20 minutes by car from Leiden
- Things to Do: Swimming, walking the boulevard, cycling, fishing, visiting the fish auction
- Best Time to Visit: May to September; lovely for winter walks
- Places to Stay:Bed and Breakfast aan Strand,Beachhostel Holland
- Places to Eat:Restaurant De Strandloper,Restobar Andreas
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10. Noordwijk Beach
Noordwijk offers 13 km of sandy beaches, elegant resorts, and attractions, making it one of the most sophisticated beaches in the Netherlands. Known as the “flower seaside resort,” it combines natural beauty with refinement, thanks to nearby Dutch bulb fields.
- Address: Noordwijk aan Zee, Zuid-Holland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; most facilities open 10:00-22:00
- How to Reach: Bus 361 from Leiden Central Station (30 minutes); 40 minutes by car from Amsterdam
- Things to Do: Swimming, visiting Space Expo, cycling to tulip fields (spring), wellness spas
- Best Time to Visit: April-May for tulips; June-August for beach weather
- Places to Stay:Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin,Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant De Witte Raaf
- Places to Eat:Tulum,Salt Noordwijk
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11. Domburg Beach
Domburg, the oldest seaside resort in Zeeland, is one of the most romantic beaches in the Netherlands. Known for its healing sea air and scenic beauty, it has attracted visitors, including famous painters, since the 1800s.
- Address: Domburg, Zeeland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; most facilities open 9:00-21:00
- How to Reach: Bus from Middelburg (30 minutes); best reached by car
- Things to Do: Swimming, beach walks, wellness treatments, exploring the historic town center
- Best Time to Visit: May to September; shoulder seasons for fewer crowds
- Places to Stay:Strandhotel Domburg,Hotel Bommeljé
- Places to Eat:Brasserie De Zeester,La Brigada
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12. Oostkapelle Beach
Oostkapelle regularly wins awards for being one of the cleanest and most family-friendly beaches in the Netherlands. Located in Zeeland, it features wide sandy shores backed by beautiful dunes and forests, creating a diverse natural environment.
- Address: Oostkapelle, Zeeland province
- Timings: Beach accessible 24/7; seasonal facilities typically open 9:00-21:00
- How to Reach: Bus from Middelburg (25 minutes); best with a car
- Things to Do: Swimming, building sand castles, forest walks, cycling
- Best Time to Visit: June to September; May and September for a quieter experience
- Places to Stay:Strandhotel Duinoord
- Places to Eat:Strandpavillion Der Pirat Oostkapelle,Zeecafé
FAQs
Which beaches are free in the Netherlands?
All public beaches in the Netherlands are free to access. You only pay for extras like chair rentals, water sports, or food. Even top spots like Scheveningen and Zandvoort have no entrance fees.
Can you swim in the Netherlands beaches?
Yes, you can swim at beaches in the Netherlands, mainly from May to September when water temperatures reach 16–22°C. Many beaches have summer lifeguards. Watch for strong currents near harbors and always follow warning flags and signs.
Which beach is famous in the Netherlands?
Scheveningen is the most famous beach in the Netherlands, known for its pier, Kurhaus, and lively promenade. Located in The Hague, it draws millions yearly. Other popular beaches in the Netherlands include Zandvoort and Noordwijk, loved by both locals and tourists.
Is the Netherlands good for a beach holiday?
Yes, the Netherlands is great for a beach holiday from May to September. Beaches in the Netherlands offer wide sands, dune landscapes, and good facilities. They’re ideal for families and water sports, though the North Sea stays fairly cool even in summer.
What are the best beaches in the Netherlands for couples?
Romantic beaches in the Netherlands include Noordwijk for its chic beach clubs, Domburg for its spa-town charm, and Texel for nature and stargazing. Visit in May or September for fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere.
What are the famous beaches in the Netherlands to visit with your family?
Famous beaches in the Netherlands for families include Scheveningen with its pier and attractions, Oostkapelle for clean waters, and Texel for nature fun. Katwijk and Egmond aan Zee also offer safe swimming and charming seaside village vibes.
Which are the best beach resorts in the Netherlands?
Top luxury beach resorts in the Netherlands include Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus in Scheveningen, Hotel van Oranje in Noordwijk, and Grand Hotel Ter Duin. For mid-range stays, try Strandhotel Seeduyn or Beach Hotel de Vigilante, both with beach access and great amenities.
What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?
The best time to visit beaches in the Netherlands is mid-May to mid-September, with temperatures around 20–25°C. July and August are warm but crowded; June and September offer fewer tourists. April and May combine beach visits with the tulip season.
