24 hours at Amsterdam Beach: seaside towns and harbours

Explore the charming beach towns

From 10:00 to 12:00

Dotted along the coastline, the charming beach towns of IJmuiden or Zandvoort are refreshing places to take a stroll. Typically Dutch—there’s even a word for it, uitwaaien, meaning ‘to walk in the wind’—is visiting the beach on a windy, slightly cold day and going for a long walk. Alternatively, start your day with a brisk dip in the ocean—you will come back feeling relaxed and completely refreshed.

Duration: 2 hours

Learn about the region's fishing and shipping industry

From 12:00 to 13:00

The cycle from Zandvoort to IJmuiden takes about an hour, or there is a handy train. As one of the biggest fishing harbours in Western Europe, IJmuiden has a strong connection to the sea. Learn more about the region’s maritime activities at the IJmuider Sea and Harbour Museum.

Duration: 1 hour

Explore historic military bunkers

From 14:00 to 16:00

Also, in IJmuiden, the Bunker Museum is housed in a German bunker from WWII and is the starting point for fascinating walking tours through the area. At the mouth of the North Sea Canal, you'll also find Forteiland IJmuiden, an impressive fortress dating back to 1880. A walk around the grounds reveals unique artefacts, varying from a German soldier’s bottle to a submarine for two.

Duration: 2 hours

Indulge in Michelin-starred dining

From 19:00 to 22:00

If you fancy treating yourself to some top-notch grub, the area has many restaurants and bars to suit all budgets. Located in the beautiful dunes outside Zandvoort, De Bokkedoorns has a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere, considering it boasts two Michelin stars. Seasonal ingredients are prepared with care and imagination, offering an escape from the city and a culinary adventure.

Duration: 3 hours

Stay overnight in a historic lighthouse

Overnight

Why not book an unforgettable night’s stay for an extra flourish on your trip? For many years, the Seinpoststelling served as a lighthouse for the harbour of IJmuiden. It now houses a cosily furnished sleeping spot with a spectacular view of the sea and passing boats. Read our accommodation guide for more tips on where to rest your head for the evening.

Duration: 1 hour

Check out some contemporary art in an old fort

From 10:00 to 13:00

The next morning, head a little further towards Haarlem to visit Kunstfort by Vijfhuizen, a former military fort that was once part of Amsterdam’s Defence Line. This unique space is now a contemporary art centre with various exhibitions and film screenings on the agenda, along with an on-site restaurant, Fort 5 Brasserie, that's open for lunch.

Duration: 2-3 hours

Browse the market stalls and stop for lunch in Heemskerk

From 13:00 to 15:00

Sandwiched between the dunes and the sea, the historic town of Heemskerk is known for its monuments, churches, and castles, and it is surrounded by lush green parks. The town centre is bustling with shoppers exploring the speciality boutiques, cosy cafés and restaurants. There is also an extensive Friday market for fresh groceries and regional delicacies.

Duration: 2 hours

Watch the sun go down from a relaxing terrace

From 16:00 to 20:00

End your day at the beach with a cold drink and a perfect sunset in one of the many trendy beach clubs along the coast. The San Blas pavilion at Bloemendaal aan Zee is open year-round and has an environmentally conscious outlook. Serving affordable, organic food and avoiding as much plastic waste as possible, it was constructed using sustainable and reclaimed material and runs off solar energy.

Duration: 4 hours