Things To Do
in Bloemendaal

Raw herring served with onions and pickles — try from a street vendor or fish stall in nearby markets (Haarlem markets or beach kiosks).

Must-Try!

Chunks of battered and fried cod served with garlic or tartar sauce; widely available at beach snackbars and markets.

Sweet Dutch treats — thin syrup waffles (stroopwafel) and small fluffy pancakes (poffertjes) found at markets, cafés and seasonal stalls.

A wide variety of Gouda-style cheeses available at markets and specialty shops; great to buy from Haarlem cheese merchants.

A short ride away, Haarlem’s market (especially on Saturdays) offers fresh produce, fish stalls, cheese vendors and street-food bites — ideal for sampling herring, kibbeling and cheeses.

Seasonal kiosks and stands along the beach serve fries, fried fish, coffee and simple lunches — convenient for a casual seaside meal.

Being on time is valued — for tours, appointments and transport, arrive punctually.

Respect bike lanes and watch for cyclists, who have priority on dedicated paths. Do not walk on cycle lanes and check before opening car doors.

The Dutch are typically direct but polite. Clear communication is appreciated; small talk is friendly but not obligatory.

Bloemendaal is a quiet, residential area — keep noise low, especially at night, and respect private property and dune protections.

Tipping is discretionary: service charges are not always included. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5–10% for good service; small change for café staff or taxi drivers is appreciated but not mandatory.

Card (chip and contactless) is widely accepted; Maestro, debit/credit cards and contactless mobile payments work in most shops and eateries. Carry some cash for small beach kiosks, market stalls or older vendors. For local public transport use an OV-chipkaart or contactless bank card where accepted.

Mild temperatures, blooming dunes and fewer crowds; ideal for cycling and hiking. Weather can be changeable — bring layers and a windproof jacket.

Warm, often breezy days with busy beaches and lively seasonal beach clubs and events; expect crowds on weekends and book restaurants in advance. Sun protection and sunscreen are essential.

Cooler weather and dramatic light in the dunes make for beautiful walks and photography; some beach facilities close after the season, but fewer visitors create a peaceful experience.

Cold, windy and occasionally frosty with quiet beaches and crisp dune landscapes; short daylight hours — dress warmly and check public-transport schedules during storms.

Large dune reserve with marked trails across dunes, forests and coastal areas; offers varied loops for half-day or full-day hikes and abundant wildlife.

A protected dune and water-supply area near Zandvoort offering peaceful trails, good chances to see deer and expansive coastal scenery.

Local dune paths and wooden walkways close to the beach ideal for short hikes and photography sessions at sunrise or sunset.

Historic parkland and woodland near Haarlem for easier, shaded walks and a pleasant urban-nature contrast.

Bloemendaal is known for affluent residential neighborhoods with families and professionals commuting to Haarlem and Amsterdam.

Many residents work in Haarlem or Amsterdam and value Bloemendaal’s quieter environment and green spaces.

The coast attracts domestic and international tourists, especially in summer for beach clubs and events.

Strong local participation in field hockey, cycling clubs and dune conservation groups.

Vegetarian choices are commonly available in cafés and restaurants; many menus include salads, vegetable mains and cheese-based dishes. Supermarkets and markets offer plant-based options.

Vegan options are increasingly common, especially in Haarlem; inform staff (in English or Dutch) and ask for dairy-free milk and plant-based mains — specialised vegan cafés are a short ride away.

Gluten-free choices are available but less widespread; bakeries and some restaurants can accommodate requests if given advance notice. Pack staples if you have severe intolerance.

Staff in tourist areas generally understand common allergy requests, but carry translations for severe allergies and consider wearing a medical alert card for urgent situations.