Things To Do
in Scheveningen
Scheveningen is a vibrant seaside district of The Hague, known for its long sandy beach and lively boulevard. The Kurhaus hotel and the historic pier anchor the seafront, drawing visitors year-round. The area blends maritime heritage with modern bars, restaurants, and cultural events.
Its dunes, harbor vibe, and proximity to The Hague make it a popular day-trip and weekend destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Scheveningen and check into your beachfront accommodation. Enjoy a lovely breakfast at a coastal café while soaking in the fresh sea air. After breakfast, take a stroll along the famous Scheveningen promenade, where you can admire the stunning views of the North Sea.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach or renting a bike to explore the scenic coastal paths. Be sure to visit the iconic Scheveningen Pier and maybe indulge in some local seafood for lunch at a nearby restaurant. As the sun begins to set, grab a gelato and enjoy beach games or simply relax by the water.
As night falls, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by dining at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood specialties. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the beach as the lights from the pier illuminate the night sky. For a fun evening activity, visit one of the beachfront bars for live music or dance the night away.
Begin your day with a short tram ride to The Hague, where you can visit the spectacular Mauritshuis museum. Enjoy breakfast at a quaint café nearby while planning your itinerary for the day. Make sure to spend quality time viewing masterpieces by Vermeer and Rembrandt.
After absorbing the art, head to the historic Binnenhof complex, where you can wander through its beautiful architecture and lush gardens. For lunch, try some Dutch pancakes at a nearby restaurant before exploring the Peace Palace or the Escher Museum. Enjoy a walk through the streets of The Hague, filled with shops and art galleries.
Return to Scheveningen for an evening of relaxation and entertainment. Choose a beachfront restaurant for dinner, sampling local dishes and enjoying the picturesque sunset views. If you're in the mood, stop by the Circus theater to catch a show or performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $60-90 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $3-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and accessible beaches year-round
- Proximity to The Hague’s cultural attractions and dining options
- Can be crowded in peak summer and on weekends
- Wind and weather can be brisk and unpredictable near the sea
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Asjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
- "Kan ik betalen met pin?" - Can I pay by card?
- "Ik ben vegetarier" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Scheveningen
Visit one of these nice places.
The long wooden pier extending into the North Sea provides iconic angles of the coastline, boats, and the horizon, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
The historic neoclassical hotel facade along the beach offers classic architecture against a broad seascape.
A charming coastal beacon with nearby vantage points for sweeping sea and dune photography.
Expansive sandy shores with soft light in the early morning and reflective wet sand after the tides.
Picturesque dunes and pine scapes near the coast—great for wide landscapes and textured textures.
Colorful boats, fishing nets, and the bustle of harbor life offer dynamic photography opportunities.
Food in Scheveningen
Scheveningen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Raw herring typically served with onions and pickles; a true Dutch street food staple found at stalls near the pier and harbor.
Must-Try!
Fried battered cod bites served with garlic sauce or tartar; widely available from fish stalls along the promenade.
Crispy deep-fried beef croquettes, a classic Dutch bar snack often enjoyed with a drink.
Thick fries topped with mayonnaise, peanut sauce, and onions; a popular beach snack from various snack bars.
Mussels with fries, a seaside favorite especially in colder or breezy days when seafood is refreshing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal beach market along the boulevard offering fresh seafood, snacks, and souvenirs; great for a quick bite or to pick up local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line patiently; say please (alsjeblieft) and thank you (dank je wel) when appropriate. Use formal address (u) with strangers in some situations, otherwise most people switch to informal je.
Stay on designated bike paths, give way to pedestrians on sidewalks, and use lights at night.
Keep noise down and respect personal space; public spaces are generally tidy and orderly.
Safety
Tipping in Scheveningen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands but appreciated for good service. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% at a restaurant is common if service is good.
Card payments (PIN/contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still usable but less common. ATMs are readily available, and many places also accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, long days with busy beaches, outdoor events, and buzzing promenade life. Expect crowds, sun, and sea breezes; water sports are popular and beach clubs come alive.
Milder days with occasional rain and strong coastal winds; fewer crowds but dramatic skies and colorful sunsets; great for seaside walks and quieter harbor evenings.
Cold and windy with more rain and frequent storms; walking along the shore is brisk and invigorating, and indoor dining and cultural venues become focal points.
Growing warmth and blooming coastal landscapes; pleasant for outdoor exploration, dunes walks, and city visits in The Hague nearby.
Scheveningen at Night
Hiking in Scheveningen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dunes and forested paths offering scenic hikes close to Scheveningen.
Extensive dune and heathland network near Den Haag for longer hiking routes.
Historic urban forest with winding paths and parkland near central The Hague.
Airports
How to reach Scheveningen by plane.
Major international hub about 40–60 minutes by train or car from Scheveningen, with frequent connections to The Hague.
Smaller airport closer to The Hague; good for European flights and short transfers to Scheveningen via car or rail.
Further away but accessible for certain European routes; typically a longer transfer to Scheveningen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of The Hague and surrounding areas enjoying beach life and weekend outings.
Domestic and international visitors flock to the coast for sun, sea, and events.
A mix of professionals and students who live in The Hague and explore nearby coastal towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common on the Scheveningen sands during warm months; organized leagues and casual play.
The North Sea and harbor offer opportunities for water sports with rental and lesson options.
Popular along the coast and dunes; extensive bike paths link Scheveningen to The Hague and beyond.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scheveningen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetarian dishes; look for salads, veggie burgers, and pasta options. In The Hague area, supermarkets and markets carry plant-based products, and staff can suggest meat-free choices or customize dishes.