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The Complete Guide to Zandvoort aan Zee

Zandvoort aan Zee is a well-known seaside resort on the Dutch North Sea coast. It has a 100 meter wide and over 9 km long very well maintained sandy beach. In addition to its beach, Zandvoort is surrounded by beautiful nature, which is great for hiking and cycling. Thanks to excellent connection to public transport, Zandvoort can be conveniently reached from Amsterdam and Haarlem . Below you’ll find everything you need to know for your vacation in Zandvoort.

Things To Do in Zandvoort

Zandvoort beach.

Zandvoort aan Zee is no longer a hidden gem. The beautiful 9-kilometer-long sandy beach of Zandvoort is well frequented, especially during the summer season. However, it offers enough space for relaxing, swimming or sports activities. There are numerous accredited surf schools near the beach where you can learn surfing or kitesurfing and just rent equipment. Further popular water sports activities include SUP (stand-up paddling) and rafting (white water rafting).

Zandvoort beach is perfect for long walks, most notably during spring and autumn. Do you have a dog? Note that dogs are only allowed on the beach at certain times of the year and day. During the summer season (April 15th to October 1st), dogs aren’t allowed on the beach during the day. They are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 7 p.m. Beyond those dates (i.e. after October 1st and before April 15th) dogs are allowed on the beach without any restrictions. If you want to go to the beach with your dog in summer, you should head to one of the nearby dog beaches.

Horse lovers can enjoy horseback riding on the beach and through the vast dunes landscapes offered by the Zandvoort horse stable.

There are over 37 beach pavilions along the coast, where you can have a hot or cold drink, lunch or dinner. Most beach pavilions are open only during the summer. Only 5 of them are open all year round.

Carry on reading more information on things to do in Zandvoort, how to get to Zandvoort beach and where to park.

National Park Zuid-Kennemerland

Our personal favorite in the region is the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park . This is a 38 km² national park located between Haarlem, Bloemendaal and Zandvoort. The national park is perfect for long walks and cycling. Zandvoort beach is only 8 km from the city center of Haarlem (about 20-30 minutes by bike or 1.5 hours walk). Take a walk or a bike ride from Haarlem to Zandvoort through the beautiful national park. Further information on the different trails can be found at the visitor’s center De Kennemerduinen .

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen

The Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen are an extensive area south of Zandvoort where water is collected for harvesting purposes. This area is home to many species of animals, including many birds, cows, sheep and some endangered species. Besides, the largest fallow deer population in the Netherlands lives in this area, too! Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen is great for hiking, especially for animal lovers. Visitors are even allowed to walk off the trails to observe the animals in their natural environment.

Dogs and bicycles are not allowed in this reserve in order not to disturb the wild animals living here. One of the highlights in Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen are the remains of the Second World War. You’ll see some old bunker entrances and can even have a look inside. The entrance fee to Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen is € 1.50 (as per April 2021).

Zandvoort Circuit

The Zandvoort Circuit is a well-known race track where races are held throughout the year. The best part about the Zandvoort race circuit is that you’re allowed to drive on this race track yourself, either in a real race car or with your own car. They also offer driving safety courses, which is particularly interesting for (beginning) motorcyclists.

Museums and Culture

There are various museums in Zandvoort. The Zandvoort Museum exhibits some smaller pieces of artwork and history. They offer guided tours and workshops where you’ll get to know more about Dutch art.

The Juttersmu-Zee-Um is a museum of a special kind. This small museum run by volunteers exhibits everything that people find on the beach during their walk. There are some funny and interesting things to see, such as airplane parts and even a piece of a mammoth tooth. Each item washed up from the sea has its own exciting story.

Plan Your Stay

Don’t come unprepared. Here are further resources and tips to plan your perfect vacation in Zandvoort.

How to Get There

Zandvoort can be conveniently reached by public transportation as well as by car.

Zandvoort is the only seaside resort in the Netherlands where the train takes you almost directly onto the beach! It’s just 150 m from the train station to Zandvoort beach. There are direct connections from Haarlem and Amsterdam to Zandvoort. The train ride from Amsterdam only takes about 30 minutes and currently costs €12 (round trip). From Haarlem to Zandvoort it’s just 10 minutes and the round trip by train currently costs €5. Trains run several times an hour, so you can always get there and back without any problems.

Parking in Zandvoort

There are numerous parking lots in Zandvoort. As in other popular cities by the sea, parking in Zandvoort is mostly paid or requires a resident parking permit.

The Louis Davids Carré parking garage on Zandvoort’s boulevard has the highest number of parking spaces, so you should usually be able to find a spot here even during the summer months. Another large parking lot (open air) is the Zuid Strand Zandvoort aan Zee parking lot. It’s located just a few meters from the beach and is also close to the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen. A day ticket here currently is €11.60.

While we recommend using one of the parking lots or garages, on-street parking is also possible. Note, however, that on-street parking is significantly more expensive (starting at €2.50 / hour) and is often limited to a maximum time of 2 hours.

Our Tips for Parking

Purchasing a day ticket for parking on one of the parking lots is the best choice if you’d like to stay in Zandvoort for the day and don’t want to sleep over in the area.

Do you drive and need a hotel in Zandvoort? It makes sense to check if the accommodation of your choice provides parking spaces. Verify whether the room rate includes parking or if there’s an additional fee. In our Zandvoort hotel review, you’ll see if parking is available and what the fees are.

Do you live in Amsterdam or stay in a hotel in Amsterdam or Haarlem which includes parking and do you travel alone or with one more person? In terms of costs it could make sense to travel by public transport instead of by car.

Accommodations

Zandvoort offers a large number of accommodations, ranging from hotels and bed & breakfast. Many of them are within walking distance to the beach. Below is a list of the most popular accommodations.

Amsterdam Beach Hotel

Amsterdam Beach Hotel is located 500 meters away from the Zandvoort train station and the beach is just 100 meters away from this hotel. This is a perfect place for travelers looking for accommodation close to the beach. The availability of the family room makes it also a great place for families or group of friends. Rooms are also available here with beach view. Enjoy your evening after strolling around the beach in their bar with your favorite drinks. Pets are allowed in this hotel for additional charges (~17 euros) and the public parking facility around the hotel can be used for parking.

Reumann Holiday Apartments : De Schelp

Reumann Holiday Apartment is located 1.5 kilometers away from the Zandvoort train station and the beach is just 1 kilometer away from this apartment. This is a perfect place for family or group of friends (up to 4 persons) as this property comes with all the needs like Kitchen, Utensils, Microwave, Dishwasher etc. Outdoor furniture’s in the garden area is provided where you can enjoy your meal or drinks when the sun is shining. BBQ facilities are also available here. A 50 euro cash deposit has to be made during check-in which will be returned during check-out after the inspection. With in a walking distance (~300m) from this apartment, one can reach the Duin area (Duinlandschap Zandvoort) and make a nice walk in this wonderful nature area. Pets are allowed here for additional charges (~10 euros) and the free public parking facility is available near this apartment.

Luxe Beach Suite

Luxe Beach Suite apartment is located 300 meters away from the Zandvoort train station and the beach is just 100 meters away from this apartment. This is a perfect place for travelers looking for accommodation close to the beach and also a great choice for those looking for luxury accommodation. Providing a fantastic beach view from 14th floor, this is also a great place for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway. Enjoy your meal or drinks from the balcony with a view to the beach. This apartment provides all the facilities like kitchenware, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine thus making it a best place for long stays with family or group of friends. A 600 euro cash deposit has to be made during check-in which will be returned during check-out after the inspection. Use the stairs/lift from the Palace hotel to reach this apartment. Free private parking facility is available in this apartment and the pets are allowed for additional charges.

In the Area

Located in the densely populated province of Noord-Holland, Zandvoort is very popular with locals and tourists alike.

If you walk along the beach towards the north, you’ll get to the next seaside resort: Bloemendaal aan Zee.

The popular tulip garden Keukenhof , the university city of Leiden and the seaside resorts Katwijk aan Zee and Noordwijk aan Zee are located south of Zandvoort.

One of our favorite cities Haarlem , the popular windmills of Zaandam and the vibrant capital Amsterdam are perfect places to visit in combination with Zandvoort.

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Zandvoort aan Zee

Zandvoort aan Zee , often simply referred to as Zandvoort, is an enchanting seaside town that’s steeped in traditional Dutch charm. Nestled in the dunes of North Holland and just a stone’s throw away from Amsterdam, Zandvoort aan Zee is a must-visit destination for those seeking a coastal retreat amidst their Dutch adventure.

Attractions: Zandvoort aan Zee’s Iconic Dutch Experiences

Accessibility: getting to zandvoort aan zee from amsterdam, stay overnight: experience zandvoort aan zee after sundown, conclusion: zandvoort aan zee – a true dutch coastal gem.

Zandvoort is much more than just a beach town. Here’s a taste of the iconic Dutch experiences that await:

• Zandvoort Beach : With its wide sandy beach and panoramic views of the North Sea, Zandvoort Beach is a seaside haven. Relax on the soft sand, take a dip in the sea, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the coastline.
• Circuit Zandvoort : For those with a need for speed, Circuit Zandvoort is a must-visit. This iconic race track, which hosts the Dutch Grand Prix, offers thrilling experiences for motorsport enthusiasts.
• Zandvoorts Museum : Delve into the town’s rich history at the Zandvoorts Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the local culture and the town’s evolution as a seaside resort.
• Juttersmu-Zee-Um : This unique museum displays an array of items washed up on the beach – from message bottles to marine artifacts.
• Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen : Just south of Zandvoort, this nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife and offers excellent walking trails.

Zandvoort aan Zee is easily accessible from Amsterdam. The most convenient way to reach the seaside town is by train, with regular direct services from Amsterdam Central Station taking just around 30 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes approximately the same amount of time via the A9 and A200.

Extend your visit to Zandvoort aan Zee with an overnight stay. The town offers a range of accommodations from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. As the sun sets, Zandvoort aan Zee comes alive with a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at one of the many beachfront restaurants, or experience the lively bar scene in the town center.

Whether you’re looking for a tranquil beach retreat, thrilling motorsport action, or a fascinating journey through local history, Zandvoort aan Zee offers an authentic Dutch seaside experience that’s sure to captivate. Easy to reach from Amsterdam and brimming with charm, it’s an essential addition to any Netherlands travel itinerary. So why wait? Start planning your Zandvoort aan Zee adventure today.

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Top things to do in Zandvoort, The Netherlands

Zandvoort is one of the most popular beach destinations in The Netherlands. And Zandvoort is your top choice when you’d like to visit the beach from Amsterdam. A direct train takes you directly to the beach and you’ll have your feet in the sand within 30 minutes. But besides the seaside and its many fun and hip beach clubs, there is a lot more to see and do in Zandvoort. So, why not decide on a weekend getaway?

How to get to Zandvoort

Where to stay in zandvoort, top things to do in zandvoort.

Zandvoort is the only beach that you can reach from Amsterdam by local transport. It’s no wonder this Dutch beach resort has been baptised ‘Amsterdam Beach’ by a lot of foreign visitors. If you’d like to visit Amsterdam Beach from Amsterdam, simply hop on a train at Amsterdam central station to Zandvoort aan Zee. You can buy a ticket at the machine at the station, or you can use your OV Chip Card .

Center Parcs Zandvoort

Center Parcs Zandvoort is the closest holiday parc to Amsterdam and it’s just a few minute’s walk to the beach. The cottages are completely renewed the last few years and they’re just absolutely lovely. Fresh colours, nice furniture with a lovely beach look and nice kitchens and bedrooms. The holiday park is set between the dunes, for that ultimate holiday feeling. The beach is only a few minutes away, as well as the town centre with all its restaurants, shops and bars.

The holiday park has several restaurants, a large indoor tropical swimming pool and lots of entertainment for kids. If you just want to stay for a night or maybe two, Center Parcs Zandvoort has a really good alternative option for you: Beach Hotel Zandvoort . A hotel, right at the beach, run by Center Parcs. So, you’ll have all the comfort of Center Parcs, with additional hotel service. It’s one of the best hotel options in Zandvoort as well.

Follow the Sun Zandvoort

Hotel Paradis

Hotel Paradis is truly a little corner of Paradise in Zandvoort. The boutique hotel offers double rooms, as well as family rooms, suites and studios, some with their own outdoor space. The interior design has that beach feel, very fresh and relaxed. There’s a very pretty communal garden. You’ll feel completely relaxed and revived after staying at this hotel.

A day at the beach

Okay, this is a bit of an easy one. But spending a day on the beach is an absolute treat when you’re in Zandvoort. Of course, you can spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming and buying an ice cream every so often. But spending your beach day a bit more active is also easy when you’re in Amsterdam Beach. You can take long walks, take surf lessons or rent a surfboard or stand up paddling board, for example at First Wave or Surfana .

It’s easy enough to recognise Ubuntu beach club by their retro red-orange umbrellas. It’s one of the loveliest beach clubs in Zandvoort, which is open year round. There are loads of outdoor seats, though you’ll be surprised how easily these fill up on a sunny day. But don’t worry, there is also plenty of space inside if the weather turns. Sit down for some lunch or a cocktail.

Hippie fish

Tijn Akersloot

Tijn Akersloot is a Zandvoort institute and has been around since 1965. It’s a great place to sit outside in the sun and order a pizza. In summer, the chef puts on the BBQ and guests can order whatever he comes up with. Don’t forget to walk inside, so you can spot the very Instagrammable pastel coloured Fiat 500.

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen

  Dit bericht bekijken op Instagram   Een bericht gedeeld door Esther | Your Dutch Guide (@yourdutchguide_com)

One of the best things about Zandvoort is that nature is literally at the town’s doorstep. Fro the beach it’s just a couple of minute’s walk to one of the entrances to Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen , a nature reserve that helps supply drinking water for Amsterdam as the dunes filter the rainwater, which is the first step of creating drinking water. It’s a wonderful place to go hiking and spot fallow deers, foxes and rabbits. Don’t forget to buy an entrance ticket on the website.

Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland

On the northside of Zandvoort National Park Zuid-Kennemerland stretches all the way up to IJmuiden. It’s one of the loveliest national parks in The Netherlands. Take a bike tour or a walk along one of the dozens of tracks and discover some of the 100 different species of bird, red deer, rabbits and roe deer that can be found there. Extra special: highlanders and a small number of wisent can also be spotted in NP Zuid-Kennemerland.

Buitenplaats Plantage

Not too far outside of Zandvoort is Buitenplaats Plantage , in Vogelzang. You can simply drive there, cycle there or catch a bus. It’s a wonderful and hip place, though time is also standing still as slow food is at the core of this enterprise. Menus are completely compiled from local produce. Inside there’s a bit of a glamping vibe, while outdoors has a bit of a retro festival style going on. Extra bonus, during tulip season Buitenplaats Plantage faces the tulip fields, which is then of course the perfect spot for a drink or some lunch.

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Zandvoort Beach

Zandvoort beach occupies a strip of about 9 kilometres in length. On busy days the beach is filled with about 10,000 people having fun playing or just soaking up the sun.

Zandvoort Beach: Holiday Huts & Beach Cafes

Zandvoort Beach: Recreation

When it comes to beach fun, there are lots of opportunities for recreation on Zandvoort beach. The most popular is sun bathing with people having the choice of throwing down a towel on a soft patch of sand to hiring a sun bed complete with umbrella at one of the many beach cafe terraces. Many of the cafes also offer the chance for a hot or cold shower, the hot being most welcome if it’s a sunny day but with a cool wind coming off the sea!

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Get back to nature in the rugged beauty of this coastal town.

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The seaside resort town of Zandvoort has a rich and storied past. Known to exist as early as 1100, it was originally a fishing port. In the early 19th century, Zandvoort began to transform into the kind of resort town that had become popular in England. Tourism increased as public transport connected the area to larger cities in the Netherlands. It thrived for many years, but was damaged during World War II and was closed. A few years later, when the war ended, Zandvoort beach reopened and the town of Zandvoort sprung back to life. 

A Holland Beach with fun for all

Today, as the unofficial Amsterdam beach, it’s a popular day trip for those living in or visiting the Dutch capital. During summer, visitors to the beach soak up the sun from the sand, take long walks along the shore or get involved in watersports (think: surfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding). There’s a bike track for both amateurs and pros alike that offers scenic views along the journey. There are also more than 30 beach clubs along Zandvoort beach, where you can have a drink with friends, enjoy a long lunch by the water and take in the lively atmosphere.

Beyond the beach

The Netherlands’ beaches may be fun in the summertime, but Zandvoort is perfect for visiting all year long thanks to the wide variety of attractions. The most famous of these is Circuit Zandvoort, a motorsport racing track located in the dunes. A thrilling place to visit for car enthusiasts, it also provides a unique backdrop for those with an interest in photography. 

Zandvoort’s natural wonders

The dunes around Zandvoort are a photo-worthy setting too; the rugged beauty of this natural landscape is one of the most impressive sights you’ll see near any Holland beach. Take a walk through the Amsterdam Waterleidingduinen (or ‘water supply dunes’). The channels of water throughout these dunes help filter rainwater to provide clean drinking water for the city of Amsterdam. There’s enough to supply two months’ worth! Within this stunning nature reserve, deer, rabbits, foxes and birds can often be spotted going about their daily life. 

Zandvoort is also close to the National Park Zuid-Kennemerland, where you can walk, bike, swim or go horseback riding through the 3,800-acre reserve. Zandvoort train station is only minutes from the beach. Trains arrive here from Amsterdam’s Centraal Station. The half-hour journey sometimes goes via Haarlem, 1 of Holland’s most beautiful medieval cities.

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Is Zandvoort Worth Visiting? The Beach near Amsterdam

by Drifter Planet | Sep 11, 2023 | Netherlands

If you live in Europe in a country near the Netherlands, then you have most definitely heard of Zandvoort. It is a beach destination that’s close to Amsterdam popular amongst the local Dutch and the nearby Germans.

Zandvoort and Bloemendaal are two beaches that are easy to reach on a day trip from Amsterdam and are along the North Sea.

So the question is – is Zandvoort worth visiting?

I visited Zandvoort twice in the summer of 2023, so I will help you decide with the below points.

Planning a last-minute trip to Zandvoort? Check my recommendations for accommodation:

• Pension Zandvoort aan Zee : A cozy apartment that’s close to the beach with all the basic amenities.
• Hotel / Pension Villa Tanahlot : Another cozy apartment close to the beach and is more affordable than most of the other places to stay in Zandvoort.
• Poort Beach Boutique Apartments : A truly beachfront property on Bloemendaal Beach. If you have the money then spend on this place to have the beach experience that you deserve on a beach holiday.

Table of Contents

Zandvoort beach & bloemendaal beach.

I have lived in Asia for most of my life so I’m spoilt when it comes to beaches since one can find the perfect palm-fringed sandy beaches in many coastal areas of Asia.

European beaches have often disappointed me. I didn’t expect a lot from Zandvoort too but I was pleasantly surprised to see how stunning this beach is.

Zandvoort Beach is massive, it stretches to 9 kilometers long, and Bloemendaal Beach adds another 4.5 km and is 100 meters wide on average. There are plenty of sand dunes too!

Zandvoort and Bloemendaal beaches are one after another so if you are visiting Zandvoort, you can definitely visit the nearby Bloemendaal on that same trip. Bloemendaal definitely has a better beach area because it is less crowded than Zandvoort.

Both these beaches have super soft white sand and clear water that’s usually cold. The sandy part of Zandvoort Beach and Bloemendaal stole my heart because

The windy climate of Zandvoort & Bloemendaal makes ideal conditions for kite surfers. The wind also creates an interesting landscape.

So in terms of the beauty of the beach, Zandvoort definitely wins.

Kennemerland National Park

On the North of Bloemendal beach is Kennemerland National Park, where you can go on bicycles. The atmosphere here is very calm and you can see the natural scenery with endless dunes.

If you like trees and grassy hills then you will enjoy Kennemerland National Park. Don’t expect anything else here or any spectacular scenes because that’s about it.

Bird-watching enthusiasts will enjoy Kennemerland National Park because it offers a lot of possibilities.

I have heard that one can also see World War 2 Bunkers but we didn’t find them at all. If you are interested, then I saw a tour for EUR 20 per person which includes a walking trail and the secret WW2 bunkers .

Some travelers also saw wild horses and bison inside the national park but we didn’t. Our camping spot in Bloemendaal was right next to Kennemerland National Park, so we did see a wild deer once but not when we were inside the national park.

Costs in Zandvoort & Bloemendaal

Zandvoort isn’t the most affordable destination. The rooms are usually at least 150 euros per night for a family in season, and they sell out pretty fast.

The campgrounds are more affordable than the rooms of course, but they are still not cheap.

The restaurants and cafes in Zandvoort aren’t cheap. Food in a restaurant for a family can be as expensive as EUR 60 for three (a couple and a kid).

If you rent a bicycle in Zandvoort, it can be as expensive as EUR 30 per day and sometimes even more.

Of course, there are ways to minimize costs. When you look for a place to stay, don’t just limit your options to Zandvoort, but also look at Bloemendaal. Bloemendaal isn’t cheaper but has more family-friendly stuff.

We booked a shack on a campground in Bloemendaal, cooked our own meals, and ate out only once a day. Also, we found food trucks that sold fresh seafood and fish and were affordable.

So, in terms of costs, Zandvoort definitely doesn’t win. For the price of 2 days in Zandvoort, one can enjoy a week in Portugal.

Food in Zandvoort

I have said it before and I will reiterate – the food scene in the Netherlands is amazing. Not only is the local food delicious but one can easily find international food or also vegan versions of most of the dishes.

If you like fish then you will especially love the food in Zandvoort. Even though Dutch food isn’t spicy, it doesn’t lack flavor and that’s why I love the local food.

I love Kibbeling (the local fried fish), Bitterballen (fried balls with meat and vegan versions), seafood sandwiches, and overall I like the use of a herb called “Zeekraal” that the Dutch use, which adds a herby yet seaweed kind of a flavor.

Apart from that, I have always enjoyed amazing international food and I’d like to mention a place called Little Jamaican Bistro in Haarlem , just 15 minutes drive away from Zandvoort.

A lot of Dutch snacks and foods are fried, so if you don’t like that then you’d enjoy salads too that are super filling.

So in terms of food, Zandvoort definitely wins.

Weather in Zandvoort

The weather in Zandvoort is unpredictable and it can rain anytime. I don’t mean the normal rain but it gets stormy and one can’t do anything.

I have heard incidents of people whose tents flew away because of a windstorm in Zandvoort.

Of course, the months of June, July, August, and sometimes even September are warm but don’t take sunny days on the beach as a guarantee if you visit Zandvoort.

Instead, prepare for the wind. If you are going with a kid then carry a kite and make it fun for them. My little girl loved flying her kite on the beach here because the wind made it so easy!

So in terms of weather, Zandvoort doesn’t always win but if you like kite surfing or windsurfing then it will work out well for you.

Zandvoort for Formula One Enthusiasts

Did you know that the Dutch Grand Prix has been held annually in Zandvoort since 2021? It was added to the Formula One calendar in 2019. It is called Circuit Zandvoort and also CM.com Circuit Zandvoort. Before 2017, it was called the Circuit Park Zandvoort

Zandvoort and Bloemendaal have many cycling trails and when we cycled around the Dunes, we were stopped by our guide near the race track and we could hear the practice! It is more towards Bloemendaal beach than Zandvoort beach.

If you are a Formula One enthusiast, that’s one reason for you to visit Zandvoort, even if the race isn’t occurring at the time of your visit!

Nearby Destinations

One of the best things about traveling in the Netherlands is that there is always an interesting destination around and it is so easy to visit the nearby destinations.

If you visit Zandvoort, then visit the nearby Haarlem because it is just a 15-minute drive away and is pretty. You can also cycle to Haarlem from Zandvoort. I did it and it was fun.

Apart from Haarlem, you can also take a train or a bus to make a day trip to Amsterdam. You can plan it in a way that you can visit Haarlem or Amsterdam on a day when there’s a storm possibility in Zandvoort because you will still have fun in the city when it is raining!

In springtime, you can also consider visiting Keukenhof and Lisse to see the tulips.

So is Zandvoort worth visiting?

It depends. As mentioned before, Zandvoort is expensive and in summer it is even more expensive than Amsterdam, which already is an expensive destination.

So, Zandvoort is worth visiting if you are ok spending a bit more than other beach destinations. Also, if you live nearby and are looking for a beach trip with a short travel time then in that case Zandvoort makes sense.

I live around 4 hours drive away from Zandvoort so I’d pick it as a destination only when I have 2-3 days of holiday time. For a longer holiday, I’d pick the beaches of Portugal since they are more affordable and warmer.

Where to stay in Zandvoort?

As mentioned before, don’t limit your search for places to stay in just Zandvoort but also include Bloemendaal aan Zee.

If you want a “beachfront” room, then you need to know that you won’t get that in Zandvoort even if the booking website says it is because there is a street in front. However, on Bloemendaal you can get beachfront rooms or camping areas.

On the other hand, if you want to be close to the restaurants, bars, nightlife, or the city center within walking distance of the beach, then book something at Zandvoort.

• Hotel / Pension Villa Tanahlot : Another cozy apartment close to the beach.

Having visited Zandvoort twice, I’d pick Bloemendaal Beach to stay head to Zandvoort for food, nightlife, and the city scenes.

We stayed in a place called “ Kennemer Duincamping De Lakens ” which we booked directly online. This place sells out a year in advance, so I wish you all the best for finding anything here.

PS: Drifter Planet  contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

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Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Drifter Planet

This Beach In The Netherlands Is Famous For Having A Little Something For Everyone

The Netherlands is a welcoming European vacation destination for visitors from across the map. Known and loved for its iconic canals, tulip fields, windmills, and sweet treats like Stroopwafel, it's a place where visitors can settle in and relish their experience year-round. If you're searching for a warm-weather beach getaway with something for everyone in your traveling crew to enjoy, look no further than Zandvoort Beach .

Located just over 25 miles from Amsterdam, Zandvoort is home to captivating coastlines waiting to be explored. The destination is home to around 17,500 residents according to Statista , but visitors will find an impressive plethora of activities, attractions, and views to savor. Getting here is simple whether you decide to travel by train or bus. This charming seaside town has a train station within walking distance of the beach that you can reach within 25 minutes of departing from Amsterdam. There are also two convenient bus lines serving Zandvoort. Bus 80 from Amsterdam reaches the beach in about an hour, while Bus 81 from the Haarlem Central Station reaches Zandvoort in around 30 minutes.

Once you arrive, a great way to get around this scenic beach town is by bike. The area has a vast network of trails and cycling routes to explore at your own, preferred pace. Consider dropping by Wijsman Fietsen Zandvoort for easy bike rental options near the shoreline. Here, you'll have access to a variety of rental selections ranging from E-bikes and city bikes to beach bikes and mountain bikes.

On-the-sand fun and nearby entertainment options

The vast and sandy shorelines hugging the North Sea that adorn Zandvoort offer up a great place for locals and visitors alike to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the warm weather months of the year. This is also a popular place for guests to put their kite surfing and windsurfing skills to work on the waves when visiting the Netherlands . You'll likely see plenty of games of beach volleyball being held across the sand here during the summer while surfing is another activity that brings professionals and novices alike to the shores of Zandvoort. The impressive North Sea winds make flying kites a top activity to enjoy at Zandvoort Beach with little ones in tow while local companies like Manege de Baarshoeve offer horse riding lessons, and guided horseback rides on the beach as well.

Taking time to explore the local dunes is always a scenic treat for travelers visiting Zandvoort Beach with a camera in hand and a passion for nature photography. If you're looking to pair impeccable coastal views and flavor too, there are plenty of picnic pavilions in the area to settle in at and savor the moment in good company. There's also a nearby beach boulevard to stroll along that provides easy access to charming beachside shops and restaurants. If you're hoping to elevate your in-town fun,  Circus Zandvoort  is within easy reach of the beach and provides access to the local casino, an on-site family-friendly arcade, and movie theaters.

Local events to enjoy and a national park to explore

Zandvoort Beach is a destination with a reputation for holding an exciting array of events throughout the calendar year. Depending on when you arrive, you might find yourself right on time to enjoy the local fun. In February, you can participate in the annual Zandvoort Light Walk . This unique event offers guests a chance to explore four routes of varying lengths along the beach. Each is illuminated at nighttime in a spectacular collection of colorful hues, creating an otherworldly experience right on the shoreline.

The annual Zandvoort Cycling Race is hosted in March as well as the challenging, yet thrilling Circuit Run which draws in athletes from across the globe. One of the most highly anticipated events of the year hosted in Zandvoort is the Dutch Grand Prix . This is held each August and is a must-experience for summertime racing enthusiasts heading this way.

Beyond the local events, a trip to Zandvoort Beach is also ideal for those travelers who have a heart for nature and wildlife. The Zuid-Kennemerland National Park sits just 13 minutes from Zandvoort Beach by taxi. It's home to everything from gorgeous beaches and thrilling dunes to rugged grasslands too. While hiking and biking are popular activities here, it's also a destination where you can view a herd of wisents which are often referred to as European bison. They've been thriving in the park since 2007 and are typically best observed from the Wisent Lookout Point.

Beachforevents

Overnight stay.

• Other accommodations
• Accessibility
• Contact form
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De Haven van Zandvoort

In a beautiful spot near the centre and on the beach, you will find the Haven van Zandvoort. A real hotspot where you can taste pure beach atmosphere 365 days a year. Have a drink on our attractive terrace or enjoy a deliciously prepared dinner at a beautiful sunset. Imagine yourself on holiday at the beach in Zandvoort. From our terrace you have a magnificent view over the North Sea.

We serve the most delicious dishes and drinks all day long. Start off with an excellent cappuccino and a healthy bowl or enjoy a true classic in the evening, such as the grilled lobster, accompanied by a good glass of white wine, of course.

For hosting meetings, weddings, get-togethers and parties with dinners, the Haven has the perfect location on Zandvoort beach. From an unforgettable family dinner to parties of 500 people, the Harbour of Zandvoort offers possibilities for every occasion.

Beach weather? Treat yourself and come and relax for a day at the Haven van Zandvoort. You can do so on our terrace, of course, but also on one of our comfortable beds on the beach.

All important information can be found at www.dehavenvanzandvoort.nl .

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:30 to 22:00 

• Open all year
• Parties and meetings
• Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Wheelchair accessible
• Close to town center

Strandafgang Paulus Loot 9 2042 AA Zandvoort Plan your route

023 571 8888 www.dehavenvanzandvoort.nl

Visit Zandvoort

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