Out and about in your own country: enjoy the best beaches

You know how it is. The work week is over, the sun is shining, and there's only one place you really want to be: the coast. That feeling of the wind in your hair, the smell of salt and sunscreen, and the endless lapping of the waves. We sometimes forget how incredibly spoiled we are with our coastline. More than 500 kilometers of sand, dunes, and sea, with something for everyone.

But where can you find the real gems, the places that will make your day out unforgettable? We'll take you on a journey past the best beaches our country has to offer.

What makes a beach a top beach?

One person's dream beach, with trendy beach bars and a bustling boulevard, is another person's nightmare. They seek the tranquility of a wide, empty beach where you can stroll for hours without encountering a soul. The "best" beach is therefore a very personal matter. Fortunately, we no longer have to rely on vague stories from acquaintances. A recent study of the best beaches in the Netherlands compiled thousands of genuine opinions from visitors.

Such an analysis looks beyond just a pretty picture; it also considers practical matters, such as the quality of the coffee at the beach pavilion, whether there are clean restrooms, and whether children can play safely. It provides an honest and up-to-date picture of the gems along our coast and helps you make a choice that perfectly matches your wishes for the ideal beach day.

The pearls of the Zeeland and South Holland coast

In the south of the Netherlands, you'll find a wonderful mix of vibrancy, nature, and culinary surprises. The Zeeland coast is known for its wide, pristine beaches and charming, historic seaside resorts. Think of Domburg, one of the oldest seaside resorts in the Netherlands, where the charm of the old artists' village blends seamlessly with the wide sandy beach.

Or travel to the southernmost point, Cadzand, where you can not only sunbathe but also search for fossilized shark teeth that regularly wash ashore. For hiking enthusiasts, the Lange Strangetocht (Long Strange Walk) along the Zeeland-Flemish coast is an absolute must.

Looking for something a bit more lively? Then you'll find the famous Scheveningen beach in South Holland. This is rightfully considered the "best" beach in the Netherlands for those who love action. With its iconic pier, a Ferris wheel, lively boulevard, and views of the majestic Kurhaus, there's always something to see and do.

If you prefer something a little more relaxing, another highlight in the region is Ouddorp beach on Goeree-Overflakkee, which was named the "Cleanest Beach in the Netherlands" in 2022. This nearly 18-kilometer-long and extremely wide sandy beach is a paradise if you prefer peace and quiet.

Blow out in North Holland from hip to rustic

The North Holland coast offers an equally diverse palette of atmospheres. For those who love a hip, vibrant vibe, Bloemendaal aan Zee and Zandvoort are the ultimate destinations.

These beaches are known for their trendy beach pavilions that exude an almost Ibiza-esque atmosphere in the summer, complete with lounge music and cocktails. It's the ideal spot for a sunset drink, preferably after a walk through the nearby Kennemer Dunes.

If you're looking for peace and quiet and nature, Bergen aan Zee is an excellent choice. This wide, expansive beach is surrounded by the beautiful North Holland Dune Reserve. An absolute favorite in the northern part of North Holland is Callantsoog, considered by many to be the "most beautiful beach in the Netherlands." It combines stunning dunes with the most hours of sunshine in the country and is also one of the most affordable seaside resorts.

For active holidaymakers, Julianadorp aan Zee is a hotspot, renowned for its clean beaches and excellent opportunities for water sports such as kitesurfing and SUP.

The unique magic of the Wadden Islands

Don't mind making a serious trip for your day at the beach? Then experience the ultimate feeling of freedom and unspoiled nature on the unparalleled Wadden Islands. Each island offers a unique beach experience you won't find anywhere else in the Netherlands. On Texel, in the south, you'll find "De Hors," a vast expanse of sand where you can walk endlessly, feeling like you're at the end of the world. With a bit of luck, you might even spot seals here.

Terschelling offers a unique dual experience with De Boschplaat: a beautiful beach and nature reserve by day, and an official Dark Sky Park by night. Imagine lying on your back in the sand after a day at the beach, free of any light pollution, gazing at a breathtaking starry sky. Schiermonnikoog's beach is among the widest in Europe, creating an unparalleled sense of space, peace, and tranquility.

Also read: Terschelling: a wonderful holiday in your own country

Your perfect beach day awaits you

From the salty air of Zeeland to the rugged beauty of the Wadden Sea, the Dutch coast is a beloved destination that rivals the best in Europe. Prepare well so you don't have to worry about anything during your relaxing day, and see how many beaches on this list you can try this summer!