Beaches in Amsterdam
Best Beaches in Amsterdam for a Laid-Back Coastal Escape
Here is the list of 8 Beaches in Amsterdam
1. Blijburg aan Zee
A lively artificial beach on the IJmeer, Blijburg blends laid-back vibes with creative energy. It’s a favourite for beach bars, live music, and a bohemian crowd, with calm, shallow waters perfect for a dip.
Location: IJburg district, 15–20 min tram from city centre
Facilities: Beach bar, sunbeds, toilets
Best For: Social atmosphere, sunset drinks
2. Strand Zuid
Close to the RAI convention centre, Strand Zuid is a chic urban beach with loungers, restaurants, and volleyball courts. It’s more about lounging and socialising than swimming, making it ideal for summer evenings.
Location: Europaplein, south Amsterdam
Facilities: Restaurants, bars, sports courts, seating areas
Best For: After-work drinks, group gatherings
3. Sloterplas Beach
Set on the Sloterplas Lake, this sandy stretch is popular for swimming, barbecues, and family picnics. Surrounded by greenery, it’s a relaxing escape within the city limits.
Location: Amsterdam Nieuw-West
Facilities: Toilets, playground, nearby cafés
Best For: Families, casual swims
4. Dok Amsterdam
A trendy urban beach with food stalls, loungers, and a festival-like atmosphere in summer. It’s a go-to for open-air events, DJ nights, and relaxed afternoons by the water.
Location: Oostenburg Island
Facilities: Bars, food trucks, event space
Best For: Nightlife vibe, summer events
5. Zandvoort aan Zee
A classic North Sea resort town just 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Zandvoort offers wide sandy beaches, watersports, and plenty of beach clubs. Its long promenade is perfect for cycling or evening strolls.
Location: 30 km west of Amsterdam, direct train from Centraal
Facilities: Restaurants, showers, rentals, lifeguards
Best For: Day trips, swimming, kitesurfing
6. Bloemendaal aan Zee
Known as the “Ibiza of the Netherlands,” Bloemendaal is famous for its beach parties, stylish clubs, and live music. It’s also great for long walks and windsurfing outside peak party hours.
Location: North of Zandvoort, accessible by bus or bike from Haarlem
Facilities: Clubs, restaurants, rentals
Best For: Party scene, watersports
7. Wijk aan Zee
A quieter alternative to Zandvoort and Bloemendaal, Wijk aan Zee offers wide sands and a relaxed, local atmosphere. It’s a great spot for families, kite flying, and beachcombing.
Location: 35 km northwest of Amsterdam
Facilities: Few restaurants, basic amenities
Best For: Peaceful beach walks, families
8. IJmuiden Beach
One of the Netherlands’ largest beaches, IJmuiden is popular for kite surfing, sand yachting, and long walks on its expansive sands. The surrounding dunes and nearby marina add to its appeal.
Location: 28 km from Amsterdam, bus or car access
Facilities: Watersports rentals, beach cafés
Best For: Adventure sports, wide-open spaces
From urban hangouts like Strand Zuid and Blijburg to full-day escapes at Zandvoort and Bloemendaal, Amsterdam offers more than just canals when it comes to waterfront fun. Whether you’re seeking a party, a peaceful swim, or a family picnic, there’s a beach vibe within easy reach of the city.