Dutch Seaside Towns

You’re never far from the sea in the Netherlands and there are some charming towns along the coast. Here are some of the best ones to visit.

Close to Amsterdam you will find a number of seaside towns, including Zandvoort, just 30 minutes from the capital by train. It’s one of the most accessible beach towns for residents of the capital, and can get busy as a result. Bloemendaal is known for fashionable beach clubs, while Egmond aan Zee and Bergen aan Zee are more laid-back options close to Amsterdam.

Zeeland province has the longest stretch of coastline in the country, with a number of good spots to recommend. Test the healing waters at Domburg, where there are spas that claim to cure your ailments, or check out buzzing Vlissingen or the cafés at Renesse or Brekens, where you can get involved in different watersports.

The Hague is close to the seaside itself, but the nearest town on the coast is called Scheveningen. You can also see lots of flower bulb fields at Noordwijk, and head off on a cycle or hike near Kijkduin. The area is known for its quiet beaches and trails, and it’s a great spot for a Sunday afternoon in nature.