Zandvoort is the ultimate destination for everyone who loves sun, sea and beach. With its extensive sandy beaches, versatile activities and convenient location, this cozy seaside resort has everything for an unforgettable beach holiday. Whether you are looking for peace and relaxation or action and adventure, you will find it all in Zandvoort.
Why do so many beach lovers choose Zandvoort? The answer is simple: nowhere else will you find such a perfect combination of beach, sea, nature and entertainment. Whether you want to spend a day sunbathing and swimming, playing sports and being active or enjoying a nice meal and drink on the beach, Zandvoort offers something for everyone. Moreover, the seaside resort is easily accessible from all over the country, both by car and by public transport. In short, all the ingredients for a successful beach holiday are here.
One of the most important reasons to choose Zandvoort is of course the beautiful sandy beaches. The beaches of Zandvoort are among the widest and cleanest in the Netherlands and extend over no less than nine kilometers. This means there is always a spot where you can sunbathe, swim and enjoy the sea view.
Zandvoort beach is divided into different zones, each with its own atmosphere and facilities. This is how you will find:
Whether you are looking for peace and privacy or fun and entertainment, you will always find a spot that suits you on the beaches of Zandvoort. In addition, the beaches are very clean and safe, with excellent water quality and the blue flag as a quality mark.
In addition to sunbathing and swimming, you can also undertake many other fun activities on the beaches of Zandvoort. The possibilities are endless and there is something for everyone, whether you are looking for action and adventure or peace and relaxation.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Aquatics | Zandvoort is a true water sports paradise, with opportunities for surfing, kite surfing, SUPing and much more. There are various surf schools and rental companies where you can go for equipment and lessons. |
| Beach sports | On the beach you can be wonderfully active with sports such as beach volleyball, beach football and frisbee. You will find fields and nets set up in various places for this purpose. |
| Walking and cycling | The Zandvoort area is ideal for beautiful beach and dune walks or cycling trips. Enjoy the fresh sea air and the beautiful natural beauty. |
| Children activities | There is also plenty to do for children on the beach, such as flying kites, building sand castles, treasure hunting and playing games. Some beach bars have special children's clubs and activities. |
| Wellness and relaxation | Would you like to completely relax? Then book a treatment at one of the beach pavilions with wellness facilities or lie down on one of the comfortable beach beds. |
Whatever interests you and whoever you come to the beach with, Zandvoort is guaranteed to offer hours of fun and entertainment for everyone. Boredom is simply not an option here!
Another major advantage of Zandvoort as a beach destination is its convenient location and excellent accessibility. The seaside resort is only 30 kilometers from Amsterdam and is easily accessible from all over the country via highways and public transport.
Are you traveling to Zandvoort by car? Then you can use the various parking lots and garages in and around the center and on the boulevard. It can be busy during the high season, so arrive on time or reserve a parking space in advance if possible.
Zandvoort is also easily accessible by public transport. Frequent trains leave from Haarlem station directly to Zandvoort aan Zee station, with a journey time of only 10 minutes. From Amsterdam you first travel by train to Haarlem and change there. The total travel time is approximately 40 minutes.
Once in Zandvoort, the beaches are easy to reach on foot or by bike. There are several bicycle rental companies in the center where you can rent bicycles, electric or otherwise. There is also a handy beach tram between the main beach entrances during the summer season.
In short, thanks to its convenient location and good accessibility, you can easily reach the beach of Zandvoort from anywhere in the Netherlands. Ideal for a day out or a longer holiday! Whether you come by car, train, bicycle or on foot, the sea and beach are always close by.
Zandvoort is known for its beautiful, extensive beaches, each with its own charm and character. Whether you are looking for peace and natural beauty, conviviality and entertainment or a place for wonderful nude recreation, you will find it all on the beaches of Zandvoort.
Wondering which beaches you should not miss during your visit to Zandvoort? I would like to take you along three of the most beautiful and special beaches that this popular seaside resort has to offer. Put on your swimwear and don't forget your sunscreen, we're going to the beach!
If you are looking for peace and relaxation, Zandvoort's North Beach is the perfect place for you. This wide, elongated beach is bordered by beautiful dunes and offers an oasis of natural beauty and serenity.
In contrast to the busy center and the boulevard, it is wonderfully quiet here and you can enjoy the sun, the sea and the beach at your leisure. Take a dip in the fresh water, take a walk along the tide line or take a nap on your towel. Here you are guaranteed to relax and fully recharge your batteries.
The North Beach is also an ideal place for nature lovers. You can enjoy beautiful walks and cycling in the adjacent dunes and spot many special plants and animals along the way. With a bit of luck you may even see a deer or fox dart past! Don't forget to enjoy the breathtaking view of the North Sea and the beach from the highest dune.
Do you prefer fun and entertainment? Then you should definitely visit Zandvoort's South Beach. This bustling, lively beach is located near the center and the boulevard and offers numerous facilities and activities for young and old.
On the South Beach you will find the most and most popular beach pavilions in Zandvoort, where you can eat, drink and lounge. Whether you fancy a quick snack, an extensive lunch or a tasty cocktail, there is something for everyone. Many pavilions also regularly organize live performances and other events for extra atmosphere and fun.
In addition to relaxing and enjoying yourself, you can also be active on the South Beach. There are numerous opportunities for water sports such as surfing, kite surfing and SUP, as well as beach sports such as beach volleyball and beach football. There are special play areas for children with swings, slides and climbing equipment. And don't forget to get an ice cream at one of the many ice cream stalls!
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Beach pavilions | For eating, drinking and lounging with a sea view |
| Water sports rental | Equipment and lessons for surfing, kiting, SUPing, etc. |
| Beach sports fields | Fields and nets for volleyball, football, etc. |
| Children's play areas | Swings, slides, climbing equipment and more |
| Rescue Brigade | For a safe feeling and first aid if necessary |
Did you know that Zandvoort also has an official nudist beach? Here you can sunbathe, swim and recreate in the nude without anyone being surprised. The nudist beach is located at the very south of Zandvoort, past the Ahoi beach pavilion.
On Zandvoort's nudist beach you will find a relaxed and tolerant atmosphere where everyone can be themselves. Young and old, man and woman, everyone is welcome to enjoy the sun and the sea in an Adam's costume. So easy and liberating, right? No more hassle with wet swimwear or annoying grains of sand in your swim trunks or bikini.
Of course, the normal beach rules also apply on the nudist beach and it is important to take each other into account. Keep enough distance, don't look too flashy and don't take photos without permission. And use your common sense: apply sunscreen well, even on the spots that are normally covered. This way you prevent painful burning in sensitive areas.
A day at the beach is of course wonderful for sunbathing, swimming and getting a breath of fresh air. But did you know that there are many more fun activities to do on and around the beaches of Zandvoort? Sports, games and adventure, there is something for everyone!
Curious about what great beach activities Zandvoort has to offer? I have listed the best ones for you, including tips for the best locations and providers. This way you get the most out of your beach day and you won't be bored for a moment. Put on your swim trunks or bikini and go!
Are you a real water rat and do you like action at sea? Then grab your chance, because Zandvoort is a true water sports paradise! Here you can (learn to) surf, kitesurf, SUP and much more. The conditions are often perfect with beautiful waves and a strong sea breeze.
You will find professional surfing schools and water sports equipment rental companies at various places on the North Beach and South Beach. Here you can rent a wetsuit and board at competitive prices or take lessons from experienced instructors. Ideal for beginners, but advanced students can also enjoy themselves here and improve their skills.
The most popular surf schools and shops in Zandvoort are:
In addition to surfing and kiting, SUPing (stand-up paddling) is also popular in Zandvoort. With a SUP board you can paddle quietly over the water and enjoy the view and the salty sea air. Ideal for relaxation, but you can also turn it into a complete workout!
Do you have a competitive side and are you always up for a game of sports and games? Then you're in the right place on the beaches of Zandvoort! From beach volleyball to beach football, there are plenty of opportunities to be active and sweat in the sand.
You will find special sports zones and fields at various places on the North Beach and South Beach, often near the beach pavilions. Here you can use the facilities such as nets and goals for free to play a game with your friends or family.
Do you want to take it a bit more seriously? Then participate in one of the many beach volleyball or football tournaments that are regularly organized on the beach. For more information, visit the websites or social media of the larger beach bars and clubs. This way you can compete with other fanatical athletes and perhaps go home with a nice cup!
| Sport | Locations | Tournaments |
|---|---|---|
| Beach volleyball | South beach at the Branding, Meijer aan Zee and Zuid | Branding Beach Tournement, Zandvoort Beach Cup |
| Beach football | South beach at Skyline and Beach Club Tien | Skyline Beach Soccer Cup, Zandvoort Beach Soccer |
And even if you don't want to play a full match, kicking a ball or hitting a ball in the sand is always a fun pastime. Bring your own ball or buy one at the beach shops and you are ready for hours of active fun!
Whether you are 5 years old or 75 years old, some beach activities are timeless and will always be fun to do. Take building sand castles and flying kites: classics that delight young and old. And Zandvoort is exactly the perfect place for that!
With its fine, firm sand and favorable location, Zandvoort beach is ideal for building the most beautiful sand castles and sculptures. Whether you want to make a simple tower or a complete sand palace, everything is possible. Bring your own plastic scoops and molds or buy a modeling set at one of the beach shops and you can get started.
Useful tips for top performance in sandcastle building:
Is there a nice breeze? Then grab your chance to fly a kite! With your feet in the sand and your gaze focused upwards, you can enjoy the beautiful spectacle of colorful kites against a clear blue sky. Wonderfully relaxing and perfect for unwinding. Especially if you are used to the hustle and bustle of the city...
Zandvoort beach is an El Dorado for kite flying enthusiasts. Thanks to the sea breeze and the open space, you almost always have enough wind to fly your kite. Bring your own copy or buy one at the souvenir shops on the boulevard. There are also special, simple kites for children in cheerful colors and shapes that are easy to fly.
Make sure you don't fly too close to other people or beach houses. You don't want your kite to get tangled or cause damage. Do you have a large mattress or professional kite? Then go to the quieter North Beach for more flying fun and spectacle.
In short, even if you are not a big sports fanatic or daredevil, you can have a great time on the beach of Zandvoort. With a bucket, a shovel and a kite you can go a long way and you are guaranteed to have a great day. Have fun and enjoy the wonderful beach weather!
Good food and drinks are of course also part of a day at the beach. And preferably with your feet in the sand and a fantastic view of the sea, right? Fortunately, Zandvoort has a variety of attractive beach pavilions where you will be spoiled for culinary pleasure.
But with so much choice it is sometimes difficult to choose. Which pavilion best suits your wishes and taste? I'll take you to three great ones that you should definitely try during your beach visit. Whether you like pure and organic, fresher than fresh fish or exciting Asian flavors...
Fan of pure, honest and organic food without the fuss? Then Hippie Fish is your place! This cozy pavilion in the middle of the Zandvoort beach serves delicious dishes made from organic, local and fair trade ingredients. As the name suggests, there is a casual, relaxed hippie vibe here.
On the Hippie Fish menu you will find meat, fish and vegetarian options. How about the homemade veggie burger with sweet potato fries? Or the grilled sea bream with fresh herbs and lemon sauce? Always delicious in combination with an organic beer or wine.
Hippie Fish is known for its surprising flavor combinations and use of fresh, seasonal products. Don't forget to order dessert for a sweet ending. The apple pie is not to be missed and the vegan chocolate cake is certainly not to be missed...
In addition to good food, Hippie Fish offers an amazing view of the sea and the dunes thanks to its unique location in the middle of the beach. The large terrace is perfect for a summer lunch or drink, with a slightly smaller and cozier indoor area for cooler days. All very instagrammable!
| Positives | Negatives |
|---|---|
| Organic, pure dishes | Limited menu |
| Unique flavor combinations | Slightly more pricey |
| Fantastic view over the sea | Full on busy days |
Lover of fish, crustaceans and shellfish? Then you are there Tijn Akersloot at the right place. This trendy beach pavilion with a contemporary look is the place for lovers of everything that comes from the sea. Delivered fresh every day and prepared with care.
On Tijn Akersloot's extensive menu you will find the best the sea has to offer. From classics such as fish & chips and fried mussels to specialties such as the pokébowl with sole starter and lemon risotto with prawns. You can also go here for raw bar items such as oysters, sashimi and fruits de mer.
In addition to the food, the cocktails are also world-class. Order a signature cocktail such as the Tijn Tonic or Rozémarijn or ask the bartender for a nice matching wine. The cozy interior with nautical details and sea blue color palette completes the picture.
During the day, Tijn Akersloot is a nice place for a relaxing lunch, in the evening the pavilion really comes to life as a restaurant. With atmospheric candlelight, loungey background music and the sound of the sea in the background, you can enjoy fine dining on the beach. Reservations are recommended!
Useful facts about Tijn Akersloot:
Okay, you're convinced. Zandvoort will be your next beach destination! But how do you ensure that everything runs smoothly and that you can fully enjoy your day out? I would like to give you some practical tips and tricks.
Because good preparation is half the battle, right? With this inside information you will be ready for an unforgettable beach experience. I'll tell you all about smart parking, a nice overnight stay and the must-haves for your beach bag. To have? To have!
There is nothing more annoying than driving endlessly in circles looking for a parking space. Especially if you are not familiar with Zandvoort. Therefore, here are the most important parking tips and tricks. This way you can run onto the beach immediately after arrival!
Do you want to start your beach day even more relaxed? Then book a parking space in advance via an online reservation system or parking app. You can then be sure that you have a spot and can drive straight on upon arrival without having to search.
| Parking location | Distance to beach | Cost | Particularities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Station Square | 200 m | €2.50 per hour | Close to center and station |
| Mayor of Alphenstraat | 500 m | €2.00 per hour | Large parking lot |
| The Zandvoortselaan | directly on the beach | €5.00 per hour | Limited number of places |
| Bicycle parking station | n/a | free | Unguarded bicycle shed |
One day in Zandvoort is of course far too short to see and do everything this charming coastal town has to offer. Fortunately, there are plenty of nice accommodations where you can spend the night. From basic hostel to luxury boutique hotel, there is something for every budget and travel style.
Traveling with your family or a group of friends? Then book a spacious apartment or holiday home in the center or on the boulevard. This way you have all the freedom and comforts of home, but just a stone's throw from the beach and the sea. Also nice: a traditional beach house for the ultimate Zandvoort experience!
Are you looking for a little more luxury and pampering? Then choose one of the stylish boutique hotels or bed & breakfasts on the coast. Here you enjoy personal service, comfortable rooms and often a delicious breakfast with a sea view. Some accommodations even offer private access to the beach.
Want to go out on a low budget with a backpack and all? Then you have also come to the right place in Zandvoort. There are several hostels and youth hostels where you can spend the night in a shared dormitory or simple private room for a reasonable price. Ideal for meeting other travelers!
Did you know that you can even sleep on the beach? Some pavilions, including Tijn Akersloot and Zuidpier, rent out attractive beach cabins for a unique overnight stay with your feet in the sand. Waking up to the smell of the sea and the sound of the waves... It doesn't get more romantic than this!
Booking tips for your stay in Zandvoort:
Yes, the anticipation can begin! But what do you stuff in that beach bag for a perfect day at the seaside? These essentials should certainly not be missed:
In addition, a cool box or cool bag with cooling elements is ideal for keeping your food and drinks nice and fresh. And do you bring a parasol, windbreak or beach tent for some shade and privacy? Make sure you secure this properly in the sand, as the wind can sometimes suddenly blow hard on the coast.
Are you traveling to the beach with the whole family? Then these things are also useful to pack:
With this beach proof checklist you are ready to enjoy carefree. Bring on those golden rays of sunshine and cooling sea breezes!
Let's face it: mass tourism and pollution are a real threat to many popular seaside resorts worldwide. Fortunately, Zandvoort is very aware of this and the seaside resort is fully committed to sustainability and inclusivity.
Because Zandvoort wants to be a nice place for everyone to enjoy the coast and nature, not only now, but also in the future. And that is only possible if we take care of it together. Curious how exactly Zandvoort does that? I'd love to tell you more about it!
Zandvoort has invested heavily in all kinds of green initiatives in recent years to reduce the ecological footprint of tourism. For example, there is a lot of focus on clean energy sources such as solar and wind energy, including by local hotels and beach pavilions.
Many accommodations and beach bars participate in sustainability programs such as Green Key and Blue Flag, aimed at environmentally friendly and responsible entrepreneurship. Consider measures such as waste separation, water savings, sustainable building materials and the use of local and organic products.
In addition, Zandvoort is actively committed to preserving the unique coastal and dune nature in the area. The adjacent Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is home to numerous special plant and animal species that occur nowhere else in the Netherlands.
Zandvoort tries to protect this vulnerable nature as best as possible through information, education and sustainable nature management. For example, there are special route instructions to prevent disturbance of breeding birds and vulnerable dune areas are partly closed to the public.
Important nature reserves and special species around Zandvoort:
You can also contribute as a visitor, for example by throwing your waste in the appropriate bins, staying on the paths and not picking (rare) plants. Together we keep Zandvoort beautiful!
Zandvoort believes that everyone should be able to enjoy a day at the beach without any worries. Regardless of age, background or physical disability. Accessibility is therefore of paramount importance.
The beach entrances at various beach exits are paved and there are special parking spaces for the disabled. The boulevards and most catering establishments are also easily accessible for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.
Do you need help to enjoy the beach? No problem! Beach wheelchairs and other aids are available in various places on the Zandvoort beach. These can be reserved in advance and are managed by the pavilions or rescue brigade on site.
For example, the Zandvoort Rescue Brigade (ZRB) has advanced beach wheelchairs with large balloon tires that have been specially developed to easily drive over the loose sand. This allows you to reach the high tide line independently or with guidance to enjoy the sea water and the sun.
| Location | Provision | Contact details |
|---|---|---|
| Rescue Station Center | Beach wheelchairs | [email protected] / tel. 023-5714141 |
| Rescue Post South | Beach mats | [email protected] / tel. 023-5714344 |
| Pavilion Ahoi | Beach wheelchairs | [email protected] / tel. 023-5730170 |
| Pavilion View | Special beach beds | [email protected] / tel. 023-5731930 |
Are you traveling to the beach with the whole family? Then these things are also useful to pack:
With this beach proof checklist you are ready to enjoy carefree. Bring on those golden rays of sunshine and cooling sea breezes!
Let's face it: mass tourism and pollution are a real threat to many popular seaside resorts worldwide. Fortunately, Zandvoort is very aware of this and the seaside resort is fully committed to sustainability and inclusivity.
Because Zandvoort wants to be a nice place for everyone to enjoy the coast and nature, not only now, but also in the future. And that is only possible if we take care of it together. Curious how exactly Zandvoort does that? I'd love to tell you more about it!
Zandvoort has invested heavily in all kinds of green initiatives in recent years to reduce the ecological footprint of tourism. For example, there is a lot of focus on clean energy sources such as solar and wind energy, including by local hotels and beach pavilions.
Many accommodations and beach bars participate in sustainability programs such as Green Key and Blue Flag, aimed at environmentally friendly and responsible entrepreneurship. Consider measures such as waste separation, water savings, sustainable building materials and the use of local and organic products.
In addition, Zandvoort is actively committed to preserving the unique coastal and dune nature in the area. The adjacent Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is home to numerous special plant and animal species that occur nowhere else in the Netherlands.
Zandvoort tries to protect this vulnerable nature as best as possible through information, education and sustainable nature management. For example, there are special route instructions to prevent disturbance of breeding birds and vulnerable dune areas are partly closed to the public.
Important nature reserves and special species around Zandvoort:
You can also contribute as a visitor, for example by throwing your waste in the appropriate bins, staying on the paths and not picking (rare) plants. Together we keep Zandvoort beautiful!
Zandvoort believes that everyone should be able to enjoy a day at the beach without any worries. Regardless of age, background or physical disability. Accessibility is therefore of paramount importance.
The beach entrances at various beach exits are paved and there are special parking spaces for the disabled. The boulevards and most catering establishments are also easily accessible for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.
Do you need help to enjoy the beach? No problem! Beach wheelchairs and other aids are available in various places on the Zandvoort beach. These can be reserved in advance and are managed by the pavilions or rescue brigade on site.
For example, the Zandvoort Rescue Brigade (ZRB) has advanced beach wheelchairs with large balloon tires that have been specially developed to easily drive over the loose sand. This allows you to reach the high tide line independently or with guidance to enjoy the sea water and the sun.
LocationAmenityContact informationRescue station CenterBeach wheelchairs[email protected] / tel. 023-5714141Reddingspost ZuidStrandmatten[email protected] / tel. 023-5714344Paviljoen AhoiBeach wheelchairs[email protected] / tel. 023-5730170Pavilion ViewSpecial beach beds[email protected] / tel. 023-5731930
There is also plenty to do on the Zandvoort beach for children with disabilities. For example, the Rescue Brigade organizes a special Disabled Children's Day every year, with all kinds of fun and challenging activities on the beach and in the water. Everything under professional supervision and adapted to the capabilities of each child.
Safety and hygiene: two aspects that may not be at the top of your priority list during a day at the beach. After all, you want to roll out your towel as quickly as possible and start enjoying yourself! Yet these are important conditions for a carefree stay. And Zandvoort does everything it can to guarantee this.
The beaches of Zandvoort are cleaned regularly and there are (separate) waste bins in various places for plastic, cans and residual waste. There is also a special team of 'beach buddies' who remove litter from the beaches every day during the summer months.
What can you do? Clean up your own waste and deposit it in the correct bin. Use natural alternatives to disposable plastic products, such as a wooden toothbrush or bamboo straws. And organize a clean-up yourself with friends or family if you want to do something good for the environment. Besides being fun, it is also very useful!
Zandvoort is also putting its best foot forward in the field of safety. On the supervised beaches you can swim without worries within the designated zones and there is supervision by professional lifeguards. First aid materials and AEDs are available at the rescue stations, and emergency responders are always ready.
Zandvoort scores very well every year in the field of bathing water quality and amply meets European standards. The seawater here is frequently checked for pollution and health risks.
In the event of extreme weather conditions such as storms or thunder, flags or signs on the beach will warn you. There are also detection systems for dangerous rip currents and sharks in the sea. But don't panic: the chance that you will encounter one here is virtually nil.
Life hacks for a safe beach day in Zandvoort:
We hope you enjoyed this look at the vibrant life in Zandvoort. For more stories, tips and local insights, stay ZandvoortToday explore. Don't forget to share your favorite articles with friends and join the conversation on our social media channels. Until next time, keep discovering the unique flavors and experiences that make our city special.
