12 hours at Amsterdam Beach: beaches and watersports

Peddle along the coastal paths

From 10:00 to 12:00

The best way to get to Amsterdam Beach or hop between the beach towns along the Dutch coastline is on two wheels! The dunes are accessible by train from the stations at Overveen, Bloemendaal and Haarlem. Alternatively, Dutch Pedelec Tours, based in Beverwijk, allows visitors to easily cycle on an electric-bike and offer route maps and professional guides through the region. You'll find numerous cycle paths through the area—or check out this Amsterdam Beach Cycleseeing Itinerary for more inspiration.

Feel the wind in your sails

From 12:00 to 14:00

The beaches at IJmuiden and Zandvoort are fantastic spots for sports lovers and thrill-seekers and are particularly renowned for their wind and water sports. Test your balance with stand-up paddle boarding, ride the waves windsurfing or catch some serious air blokarting – whatever your passion, there’s a place to do it!

Duration: 2 hours

Fuel up with some delicious seafood

From 14:00 to 15:00

Zandvoort’s dozens of beach clubs, restaurants and pavilions offer the perfect place to relax, with wind-screened terraces and delicious food and drink options. May we suggest a luxurious late afternoon cocktail and seafood lunch at Mango’s Beachbar? Choose between views of the rolling dunes or the crashing waves.

Duration: 1 hour

Check out some fascinating beach treasures

From 15:00 to 16:00

The Juttersmu-ZEE-um in Zandvoort is a unique, family-friendly museum dedicated to the artefacts and curiosities collected by local beachcombers. As well as displaying some fascinating treasures - including a series of messages sent in bottles from all over the world - the museum also introduces facts about the local residents and their ties with the sea.

Duration: 1 hour

Book an unforgettable night’s stay

Overnight

Don’t fancy leaving the beach so soon? Wake up to the sound of the surf by booking a night’s stay at one of the area’s beach cabins, camping grounds or luxury hotels. Buddha Beach offers a cosy night’s stay directly on the beach at Zandvoort. The six bungalows are fully equipped with large glass windows for unobstructed beach views. Have a read of our accommodation guide for more tips in the area

Race supercars and go-karts

From 12:00 to 16:00

The next day, gear up for your next adrenaline-fueled adventure. Racing enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Circuit Park Zandvoort, nestled amid the dunes. Book an experience with Race Planet to hop in a Lamborghini, Aston Martin or McLaren and test your driving skills while the younger ones can practice theirs in a go-kart.

Duration: 3 hours

Dance the night away on the sand

From 18:00 to late

For cocktails and stunning sea views, Bloemendaal’s lively atmosphere and chill vibe make it a hotspot for young locals and tourists looking to let loose. Bloemendaal has regular live bands and DJs performing at outdoor parties that go all night - check out hippy hangout Woodstock 69.

Check out these 6 and 24-hour guides for more inspiration on how to make the most of your time at the Amsterdam Beach region.