Discover the Most Beautiful Beaches in Holland
Where to Sunbathe, Dine, and Party by the Sea
A Coastal Paradise Guide
The Netherlands, widely known for its tulip fields, windmills, and picturesque canals, may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of beach vacations. But ask any local or seasoned traveler, and you’ll soon learn that the Dutch coastline hides some of the most stunning and diverse beach destinations in Europe. From the buzzing beach clubs of Bloemendaal to the tranquil dunes of Terschelling, the Netherlands offers a coastal paradise waiting to be discovered.
In this in-depth coastal guide, we’ll take you through the most beautiful beaches in Holland, where to find the best beach clubs, coastal restaurants, and nightlife hotspots, plus hidden gems and insider tips to help you plan the perfect beach escape.
Why Choose the Dutch Coast?
While the Mediterranean may get more sun, the Dutch coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The coastline stretches over 450 kilometers, with wide sandy beaches, protected dunes, charming beach towns, and nature reserves. It’s easily accessible by train, car, or bike, and perfect for both a weekend getaway or a longer summer escape.
Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Holland
Zandvoort is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Netherlands, just 30 minutes from Amsterdam. With its wide sandy beaches and vibrant beach clubs, it’s ideal for sunbathing, surfing, or enjoying cocktails with your feet in the sand.
Highlights:
🏖️Accessible by train
🏖️Great for surfers
🏖️Home to luxury beach clubs
2. Scheveningen Beach
Located in The Hague, Scheveningen is the most famous and developed beach in the country. Think of a wide boulevard, a historic pier, street performers, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
Highlights:
🏖️Iconic Ferris wheel on the pier
🏖️SEA LIFE aquarium
🏖️Kurhaus Hotel
3. Texel – De Koog
Texel, the largest Wadden Island, is a nature lover’s paradise. The beach near De Koog is long, clean, and perfect for birdwatching, seal spotting, or simply relaxing.
Highlights:
🏖️National Park Dunes of Texel
🏖️Family-friendly
🏖️Camping opportunities
4. Bloemendaal aan Zee
Known for its party scene, Bloemendaal is often compared to Ibiza. It’s the place to go if you want beach festivals, chic clubs, and a stylish crowd.
Highlights:
🏖️Music festivals in summer
🏖️Trendy beach clubs
🏖️Young, vibrant atmosphere
5. Noordwijk
Noordwijk is a charming beach town with luxury hotels and a romantic atmosphere. Popular for couples, wellness lovers, and foodies.
Highlights:
🏖️Boutique stays
🏖️Space Expo museum nearby
🏖️Sunset dinners
6. Domburg
One of the oldest seaside resorts in the Netherlands, Domburg in Zeeland is perfect for wellness seekers and history buffs.
Highlights:
🏖️Healing sea air
🏖️Art history connections (Mondriaan)
🏖️Great seafood
7. Egmond aan Zee
A family-friendly beach with a lighthouse, dunes, and great biking routes. It’s ideal for a quiet escape.
Highlights:
🏖️Cozy town center
🏖️Family-oriented
🏖️Historic lighthouse
8. Terschelling – West aan Zee
Remote, serene, and wild, Terschelling offers some of the most untouched beaches in the country. Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing.
Highlights:
🏖️UNESCO World Heritage site
🏖️Camping on the dunes
🏖️Ferry adventure
9. Katwijk aan Zee
Traditional and calm, Katwijk has a long promenade, a rich fishing history, and a local feel that many other beaches lack.
Highlights:
🏖️Art museum by the beach
🏖️Less touristy
🏖️Great seafood
10. Vlieland
The most peaceful of the Wadden Islands. No cars, no stress—just miles of dunes, sea, and silence.
Highlights:
🏖️Wellness retreats
🏖️Car-free island
🏖️Meditation on the beach
Best Beach Clubs and Restaurants
Holland’s beach scene has flourished with world-class beach clubs, where good food, music, and design meet the sea breeze.
Best Beach Clubs:
- Ubuntu Beach (Zandvoort): Boho vibes, organic menu, family-friendly.
- Timboektoe (Wijk aan Zee): Surfer’s paradise, chilled crowd.
- Woodstock 69 (Bloemendaal): Legendary music events and sunset parties.
- Beachclub O (Noordwijk): Luxe décor, perfect for cocktails and people-watching.
- Bries (Noordwijk): Mediterranean cuisine, elegant and upscale.
- De Branding (Noordwijk): Fine dining with a sea view.
- Catch by Simonis (Scheveningen): Seafood lovers’ heaven.
- ’t Badhuys (Texel): Rustic yet modern, local ingredients.
- De Goudvis (Ameland): Beachfront dining with kids in mind.
Coastal Activities: Surfing, Biking, and More
The Dutch coast is more than just lounging in the sun. It’s an active traveler’s dream.
- Zandvoort, Scheveningen, and Domburg are top surfing spots with schools and gear rentals.
- Brouwersdam and IJmuiden are wind hotspots with vibrant communities.
Cycling and Hiking:
- The North Sea Route (LF1) runs along the coast—perfect for multi-day cycling adventures.
- Dune trails around Kennemerduinen and Meijendel are ideal for walking.
Nature & Wildlife:
- Spot seals in Ecomare (Texel)
- Birdwatch in the Oostvaardersplassen
- Visit De Slufter nature area
Where to Stay: From Luxury Hotels to Cozy Cabins
Whether you’re looking for romance, adventure, or family fun, there’s a perfect place to stay near every beach.
Luxury Hotels:
🛏️ Hotel Huis ter Duin (Noordwijk)
🛏️ Kurhaus Hotel (Scheveningen)
🛏️ Strandhotel Cadzand-Bad (Zeeland)
Glamping and Cabins:
🛏️ Duynpark Het Zwanenwater (Callantsoog)
🛏️ Tiny Houses in Bloemendaal
🛏️ Beach Lodges Julianadorp
Budget & Hostels:
🛏️ Stayokay (Terschelling, Egmond)
🛏️Camping on Texel and Vlieland
Nightlife by the Sea
The party doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.
Where to Go Out:
- Bloemendaal aan Zee: Epic beach parties at Woodstock 69 and Beachclub Vroeger.
- Scheveningen: Pubs, clubs, and beach bars around the Kurhaus and Pier.
- Zandvoort: Laid-back bars with DJ sets and fire pits.
Special Events:
- Luminosity Beach Festival (Zandvoort): Trance music heaven.
- Live on the Beach (Scheveningen): Big-name concerts right on the sand.
Practical Tips for Visiting Dutch Beaches
- Best Time to Visit: June to September for beach weather. Spring for flower fields and quiet walks.
- Weather: Always pack a sweater and windbreaker. Dutch weather can change fast.
- Getting There: Public transport is excellent. Trains and buses go to most beach towns.
- Parking: In summer, spots fill up fast. Use P+R or arrive early.
- Beach Rules: Dogs may be restricted in high season. Nude beaches are clearly marked.
- Sustainability: Respect the dunes, take your trash, and support eco-conscious businesses.
Hidden Gems Along the Coastline
Not every beach is packed with tourists. These lesser-known spots are perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds.
Bergen aan Zee:
Artistic village with dunes and galleries.
Callantsoog:
Beautiful nature reserve and quiet sands.
Ouddorp:
Zeeland’s northern gem, with wide beaches and water sports.
Your Coastal Paradise Awaits
From buzzing beach bars to windswept dunes, the Dutch coast is a place of contrasts and charm. Whether you’re here to dance all night in Bloemendaal, find inner peace on Vlieland, or enjoy family fun in Zandvoort, there’s a slice of beach life for everyone.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your flip-flops, and come discover Holland’s most beautiful beaches.
The coast is calling.
Nicole
Thanks for joining us!
For reading and visiting FemmVoyage! I’m Nicole, a proud single mom to my 12-year-old daughter, Day. Together, we’re navigating the adventures of single motherhood, work-life balance, and everything in between.We’re a dynamic duo bud also facing the ups and downs of single motherhood, and all the adventures life has to offer. From family travels and weekend getaways to crafting,home decor, gardening, cooking, and fashion, I love sharing our journey with you.
At FemmVoyage, I inspire other busy moms, women, travel lovers, foodies, and home enthusiasts with practical tips, stories, and creative ideas, personal stories, and lots of fun ideas. So Whether you’re a single mom like me, how loves decorating your home and garden, or just looking for fresh inspiration, you’re in the right place and will find something here to spark your joy. Let’s make every moment count whether we’re on a trip or decorating our backyard!
Let’s explore life together.
