Things To Do
in Bloemendaal

Bloemendaal is a beautiful coastal municipality located in the Netherlands, known for its picturesque beaches and dunes. The area offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Visitors can explore charming seaside villages, historic estates, and enjoy outdoor activities such as biking and hiking.

Bloemendaal also boasts a vibrant food scene with plenty of cafes and restaurants to savor local cuisine.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $200
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Visit Bloemendaal Beach
morning
:

Start your day at Bloemendaal Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing walk along the shore. Grab a coffee from a nearby beach café while soaking in the sun.

afternoon
:

Explore the dunes and nature reserves near the beach for some stunning views and wildlife. Have lunch at one of the beach bars offering local seafood specialties.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner with your feet in the sand. Participate in evening events or simply relax by a bonfire.

day 2
Nature Day at Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland
morning
:

Head to the National Park for a hike through diverse landscapes, including dunes, forests, and lakes. Enjoy the fresh air and take in the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the visitor center to learn about the local flora and fauna. Have a picnic lunch in one of the park's designated areas.

evening
:

Return to Bloemendaal for a cozy dinner at a local restaurant. Consider taking a night stroll under the stars to conclude the day.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beach and coastal scenery
  • Rich cultural history and architecture
  • Close proximity to Amsterdam for easy access to urban amenities
  • Active community with various local events and festivals
  • Great recreational opportunities, including water sports and nature trails
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Higher cost of living compared to other Dutch towns
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities
  • May experience harsh weather conditions in winter
  • Less diverse job market compared to bigger urban areas

Best Activities in Bloemendaal

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Kennemerduinen National Park

Explore the beautiful dunes, forests, and coastal landscapes on the well-marked hiking trails in Kennemerduinen National Park.

Cycling along the coastal dunes

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the coastal dunes with expansive sea views and fresh sea breeze.

Beach activities at Bloemendaal aan Zee

Relax on the beach, swim in the North Sea, or try beach volleyball and other water sports at Bloemendaal aan Zee.

Visiting the Openluchttheater Bloemendaal

Attend open-air concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events in the beautiful natural setting of Openluchttheater Bloemendaal.

Tours

Uncover the best of Bloemendaal with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Bloemendaal

Visit one of these nice places.

Zuid-Kennemerland National Park

Offers stunning views of dunes, forests, and coastline, perfect for photography

Caprera Openluchttheater en Bloemendaalse Bos

Scenic park with open-air theater, beautiful trails, and picturesque spots for photography

Bloemendaal aan Zee

Beautiful beach with panoramic views of the North Sea and sunset photo opportunities

Food in Bloemendaal

Bloemendaal, Netherlands offers a delightful mix of traditional Dutch cuisine as well as international influences. From hearty stamppot to fresh seafood and global culinary offerings, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Bloemendaal Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hutspot

A classic Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes, carrots, and onions, often served with a hearty sausage.

Must-Try!

Raw Herring

A popular street food, raw herring is typically enjoyed with onions and pickles. Look for herring stands around the town center or at local markets.

Poffertjes

These mini, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar are a sweet treat commonly found at street markets and local cafes.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Bloemendaal better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bloemendaal aan Zee Market

Every weekend, this vibrant market offers a wide array of street food vendors serving up everything from traditional Dutch snacks to global delicacies.

Zandvoort aan Zee Street Food Stalls

In nearby Zandvoort, you'll find an assortment of stalls along the promenade offering fresh seafood, Dutch treats, and international street food options.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as temperate maritime, which means it experiences mild winters and moderately warm summers. The average temperature in winter generally hovers around 3-6°C (37-43°F), while in summer, it can reach approximately 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late summer and autumn. Wind plays a significant role, especially during the winter months, which can lead to a chill factor making it feel colder than the actual temperature. The proximity to the North Sea also influences the climate, contributing to higher humidity levels and occasional storms. Overall, the climate allows for a diverse range of flora and fauna, making the area picturesque and conducive to outdoor activities year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a handshake

In Bloemendaal, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal or business settings. This is a sign of respect and is an important cultural norm to follow.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Bloemendaal. Arriving on time for social and business engagements is considered respectful and demonstrates good manners.

Respecting personal space

Dutch people, including those in Bloemendaal, value their personal space. It is important to respect this by avoiding standing too close or engaging in physical contact, unless invited to do so.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Bloemendaal with these exclusive activities.

Safety

This coastal town is known for its safety and low crime rates. Residents and visitors generally feel secure walking around both during the day and at night. The local authorities prioritize community well-being and actively engage in maintaining a safe environment. The area benefits from well-lit streets and a strong presence of community policing, which contributes to a sense of security among the population. Additionally, the community is tight-knit, fostering a neighborly atmosphere where individuals look out for one another. While petty crimes, like theft or vandalism, can occur in any area, they are relatively infrequent here. Emergency services are accessible and responsive, further enhancing the overall safety of the community. For those concerned about safety, the town's clean and well-maintained surroundings also add to its inviting and secure ambiance.

Tipping in Bloemendaal

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Bloemendaal, it is customary to leave a small tip of about 5-10% at restaurants if the service was satisfactory. However, tipping is not mandatory and entirely at the discretion of the customer.

Payment

In Bloemendaal, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, and most establishments accept major international cards.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bloemendaal.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Bloemendaal, Netherlands. The tulip fields are in full bloom, and the weather is mild and pleasant.

Summer

Ideal for beach visits as Bloemendaal has beautiful sandy beaches. The weather is warm, and the coastal areas are lively with outdoor activities.

Autumn

Fall brings colorful foliage to the surrounding landscapes. The temperatures are cooler, and it's a great time for nature walks and cycling.

Winter

Although colder, winter in Bloemendaal can be magical, especially if you enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and indoor cultural activities.

Bloemendaal at Night

Nightlife in Bloemendaal offers a unique blend of vibrant beach clubs, live music events, and chic bars, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Dutch coastline. Renowned for its lively summer scene, this coastal town attracts both locals and visitors looking for an unforgettable night out. The beach area, especially Bloemendaal aan Zee, transforms into a bustling hub after sunset. Popular beach clubs such as Bloomingdale, Woodstock 69, and Fuel draw crowds with their top-notch DJs, thematic parties, and relaxed, laid-back vibes. These venues often host major events and festivals, featuring a mix of electronic dance music, live performances, and international acts. For those seeking a more intimate setting, various trendy bars and cafes located inland offer a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink with friends. Local favorites include the Jopenkerk Brewery in nearby Haarlem, where patrons can savor craft beers brewed on-site in a beautifully restored church. Throughout the summer, the nightlife scene in Bloemendaal is particularly vibrant, thanks to its regular outdoor events and beach parties. However, even during the off-season, the town maintains its charm with a variety of cultural activities, making it a year-round destination for night owls.

Hiking in Bloemendaal

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kennemerduinen National Park

A beautiful national park featuring sandy dunes, woodlands, and expansive beaches. Offers various hiking trails with stunning views of nature.

Bloemendaal aan Zee

A scenic beach area with nearby trails leading through the dunes. Perfect for a coastal hike combined with beach activities.

Haarlemmermeer Forest

A large forest area with trails that meander through diverse landscapes. An excellent spot for various hiking experiences close to Bloemendaal.

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen

A unique nature reserve known for its extensive network of trails, featuring wildlife and diverse landscapes, including dunes and wetlands.

Dunes of Noord-Holland

A picturesque area that offers a variety of hiking paths through beautiful dune landscapes and vibrant flora and fauna.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Bloemendaal through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Bloemendaal by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

The main international airport serving Amsterdam and the Netherlands, located approximately 18 kilometers northwest of Bloemendaal.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

An international airport located in Rotterdam, approximately 58 kilometers south of Bloemendaal, serving both cities and the surrounding regions.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

An international airport located in Eindhoven, about 123 kilometers southeast of Bloemendaal, serving low-cost carriers and regional flights.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The main international airport in Belgium, located around 173 kilometers south of Bloemendaal, serving numerous global destinations.

Amsterdam Vijfhuizen Heliport (QHN)

A heliport located about 14 kilometers away from Bloemendaal, primarily serving helicopter transport but may be of interest for regional travel.

Walkability

This picturesque municipality is known for its charming streets and residential areas that encourage walking. The town features well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and green parks that enhance the overall experience. Traffic regulations prioritize pedestrians, ensuring a safe environment. The compact layout allows residents to access local shops, cafes, and amenities within a short, pleasant walk. Additionally, the surrounding nature and coastal proximity provide scenic routes for leisurely strolls. With a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, the area promotes an active lifestyle, making it an inviting place for walkers of all ages.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch Nationals

The majority of the population, comprising the native citizens of the Netherlands.

Foreign Nationals

Individuals residing in Bloemendaal who are citizens of other countries.

Immigrants

People who have moved to Bloemendaal from various international locations.

Expatriates

Foreign professionals and their families living in Bloemendaal for work.

Senior Citizens

Older adults, typically those aged 65 and above, comprising a significant demographic group.

Young Residents

Children and teenagers, including those in primary and secondary education.

Working Adults

Men and women in the active workforce, spanning various industries and sectors.

The Soul of Bloemendaal

Discover the essence of Bloemendaal through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Field hockey is exceptionally popular in Bloemendaal, with the local clubs attracting many players and supporters. The town is home to multiple successful clubs, including HC Bloemendaal, which has a strong history in the sport.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys a significant following in Bloemendaal, with various local teams participating in regional leagues. The sport is played widely among youth and adults alike.

Tennis

Tennis is a favored recreational activity in Bloemendaal, with several well-maintained courts and clubs that cater to players of all skill levels.

Running and Athletics

The scenic parks and surroundings of Bloemendaal provide excellent routes for running and various athletic activities, attracting both hobbyists and competitive athletes.

Surfing

At the nearby beaches, surfing is also a popular sport among locals, taking advantage of the coastal waves and sandy shores.

Traffic

In this charming coastal town, traffic is typically characterized by a combination of residential vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. The proximity to the beach and nature reserves attracts visitors, especially during weekends and holidays, leading to increased congestion near popular destinations. Local roads tend to be narrower, with many streets lined with trees and beautiful homes, which can further slow down traffic. Cyclists are a prominent feature, as the area is bike-friendly with dedicated lanes, making cycling a popular mode of transport for both locals and tourists alike. During peak times, especially in the summer months, visitors flock to the beaches, resulting in higher volumes of cars and buses. Public transportation options, including buses connecting to larger cities nearby, also contribute to the flow of traffic. Overall, while it can get busy, especially at peak times, the overall atmosphere remains relaxed and community-oriented.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bloemendaal.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

Many restaurants and cafes in Bloemendaal offer a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from salads and soups to plant-based entrees.

Gluten-Free

While Dutch cuisine traditionally features bread and pastries, several eateries in Bloemendaal are mindful of gluten-free diets and are able to cater to such dietary restrictions.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Bloemendaal with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Located in the province of North Holland, the town is served by a range of healthcare facilities that cater to the needs of its residents. The healthcare system in the area includes general practitioners (GPs), specialists, and various medical services that ensure comprehensive care. Residents typically have access to local clinics and general practitioners who provide primary care and can refer patients to specialized services when necessary. There are also pharmacies that offer medication and health advice. For more serious medical needs, residents may travel to larger hospitals and medical centers in nearby cities like Haarlem or Amsterdam, which offer advanced medical care and specialized treatments. The healthcare system operates within the broader framework of the Dutch health insurance model, which mandates that all citizens have health insurance coverage. This ensures a high standard of healthcare services, with a focus on accessibility and quality. Additionally, community health services, including mental health support and elderly care, play a crucial role in the overall well-being of the population. The integration of healthcare services and community programs emphasizes a holistic approach to health and wellness in the region.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2024 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide