When you think of beach destinations, the Dutch coast may not be the first place that comes to mind. While its beaches may not boast the tropical allure of exotic locations like Bali, Ibiza, or Hawaii, the Dutch coast has plenty to offer. You might be pleasantly surprised by its charming coastal towns. We’ve compiled a list of coastal towns in Holland that you simply can’t miss during your visit.
A great resource for finding affordable accommodations along the Dutch coast is Booking.com. Founded in the Netherlands, this site provides a wide variety of accommodation options throughout the country.
1. Texel – The Largest Dutch Island
Texel is one of the Netherlands’ most stunning islands. To reach it, travel north from Amsterdam through Alkmaar to a city called Den Helder. From there, you can take a ferry that takes approximately 25 minutes to Texel. This island features some of the prettiest beaches in the Netherlands, and with fewer tourists compared to the mainland, the sands are well-preserved. You can enjoy extensive beach walks, as the shoreline spans about 18 kilometers across the island.
Beyond the beach, Texel offers opportunities to explore Dutch nature. Visit the National Park Dunes to experience the iconic Dutch landscape of dunes. If you’re interested in marine life, be sure to check out Ecomare, a smaller-scale version of SeaWorld. You can book a guided tour to learn all about Texel and its marine ecosystem. For dining and shopping, be sure to visit ‘De Koog’ and ‘Oosterend’, and if you’re interested in history, explore the 15th-century buildings in ‘Den Burg’.
2. Egmond aan Zee – The Coastal Town for Sports Enthusiasts
Egmond aan Zee, also known as Egmond at Sea, is located in North Holland. It’s the ideal coastal destination for those who enjoy being active and love outdoor pursuits. You can engage in various water sports, such as surfing, kite surfing, or simply flying a kite on the beach. Check out the popular resort De Woudhoeve here.
In addition, you can rent a bike to take a picturesque ride along the boulevard. The town is also famous for its lighthouse, one of the oldest and still functioning lighthouses in the Netherlands.
3. Bloemendaal aan Zee – The Trendy Dutch Coastal Town
Bloemendaal aan Zee is a hip and fashionable coastal destination often likened to Malibu, the Hamptons, or Ibiza. You’ll find affluent visitors enjoying the lively beach clubs in Bloemendaal.
Just like New Yorkers escape to their beach houses in the Hamptons, people from Amsterdam (and other cities in the Netherlands) flock to Bloemendaal on weekends. If you’re drawn to trendy beach clubs with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant crowd, this is the place to be.
4. Cadzand-Bad – The Family-Friendly Coastal Town
The towns mentioned earlier are all located in northern Netherlands, while Cadzand-Bad is further south, marking the most southern coastal town in the country. Situated in the province of Zeeland, just a stone’s throw from the Belgian border, Cadzand-Bad is perfect for a family vacation, offering tranquility and a child-friendly atmosphere.
In addition to a beautiful beach dotted with restaurants, you can explore the nearby nature reserve ‘Het Zwin’. Here in Cadzand-Bad, you’ll have the chance to discover the enchanting dunes of Zeeland, which stretch over 12 kilometers along the coast.
5. Scheveningen – The Largest Dutch Coastal Town
Scheveningen is the Netherlands’ most popular coastal town. It is just a 10-minute drive from The Hague’s city center. The atmosphere is reminiscent of Brighton in the UK or the Jersey Shore in the US; it’s always bustling, even in the winter, and its boardwalk often teems with visitors. This lively atmosphere adds to Scheveningen’s charm, creating an inviting vibe where everyone is welcome.
If you stroll along the boulevard facing the ocean, remember that the left side tends to be busier. However, if you head right towards ‘het Zwarte Pad’, you’ll find it quieter, with more locals enjoying the beach. Scheveningen is also ideal for surfing, featuring several surf schools.
Additionally, Scheveningen boasts numerous hotels, trendy beach clubs, and restaurants that will make you feel like you’re on vacation far away from the Netherlands. If you need a break from the beach, consider visiting the casino, catching a movie at the Pathe Cinema, or watching a show at the Circus Theater, all conveniently located just two minutes from the boulevard.
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