Things To Do
in Zandvoort
Zandvoort is a compact seaside town on the North Sea coast just west of Haarlem, where golden dunes meet the sea. The town is known for its long sandy beaches, breezy beach clubs, and a relaxed coastal vibe. It has a walkable town center with cafés, shops, and easy access to nature reserves like the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen.
Visitors can enjoy year‑round beach walks, cycling routes, and quick trips to nearby cities like Haarlem and Amsterdam.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zandvoort and settle into your beachfront accommodation. Stroll along the sandy shores while letting the sound of the waves calm your travel fatigue. Grab a coffee at a local café to energize for the day ahead.
Take a leisurely walk through the charming town, exploring its unique shops and sights. Enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood at a nearby restaurant, savoring local flavors. Visit the Zandvoort Beach to soak up the sun and unwind by the sea.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in traditional Dutch dishes accompanied by fine wines. After dinner, stroll along the beach under the stars, feeling the refreshing ocean breeze. Wrap up the night at a cozy bar, sipping on a local craft beer.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to Zandvoort Beach for some sun and sand. Take part in beach activities like beach volleyball or paddleboarding, if you're feeling adventurous. Enjoy a peaceful moment as you walk along the shoreline, collecting seashells.
Join a guided tour to discover the unique coastal landscapes of the National Park Zuid-Kennemerland. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, with opportunities for bird-watching and possibly spotting some local wildlife. After your hike, wind down by lounging at one of the beach clubs with refreshing drinks.
Savor the sunset with a beach bonfire experience, enjoying roasted marshmallows and laughter with new friends. Later, treat yourself to dinner at a nearby restaurant offering a mix of local and international cuisine. End your day with a stroll along the boardwalk, soaking in the late-night ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transportation ticket | $4-6 |
| 🏨Night in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and dunes within easy reach of Amsterdam and Haarlem
- Relaxed beach-town vibe with strong cycling culture
- Good value for a Dutch coastline destination compared to major cities
- Year-round access to nature trails, scenic spots, and coastal walks
- Seasonal crowding in summer can make some areas busy
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services and restaurants operate seasonally
- Parking and beach access can require planning during peak days
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ik ben vegetarier" - I am a vegetarian
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "De rekening, alstublieft" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Zandvoort
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, empty shoreline with golden light over the North Sea; ideal for long-exposure seascapes and minimalistic horizon shots.
Dune trails with winding wooden boardwalks and freshwater ponds, offering wildlife and moody landscape photography.
A coastal vantage point near the dunes; dramatic skies and sea lines provide strong composition opportunities.
Shaded dune forest and grassy clearings with winding paths, perfect for tranquil nature photography and birdlife.
Food in Zandvoort
Zandvoort Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Battered, fried morsels of fish served with remoulade; a quintessential beach-side snack widely available at fish stalls near the shore.
Must-Try!
Raw herring served with onions and pickles, commonly found at fish stands and markets; a traditional Dutch delicacy enjoyed with a bite of lemon sometimes.
Sweet waffle cookies with a caramel-like syrup filling; best enjoyed warm at bakery counters or cafés.
Mini fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, often found at street stalls and bakeries during markets or festivals.
Thick-cut fries served with mayonnaise or a selection of sauces; a staple snack found at beach kiosks and snack bars.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls along the promenade offering fresh fish, Dutch snacks, pastries, and souvenirs, with occasional live music nearby.
Compact cluster of fish stands and snack vendors near the harbor area, ideal for a quick bite after a stroll along the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep to the right on bike paths and announce when passing pedestrians; give way at crossings and in crowded areas.
A simple hello (Hallo) or good morning (Goedemorgen) goes a long way; politeness is valued in shops and cafes.
Public spaces are generally relaxed, but late-night noise is discouraged in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Zandvoort
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving around 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Most places accept card payments (contactless) and mobile payments; cash is still accepted in many kiosks and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer daylight hours and blooming dunes; great for hiking, cycling, and coastal photography with mild temperatures.
Busy beaches and vibrant beach clubs; expect crowds but abundant outdoor activities and water sports.
Milder sea winds and falling leaves; great for scenic coastal walks and photography with golden light.
Chillier, often windy, with fewer crowds; coastal walks still possible, and cozy cafes provide warmth after a day out.
Zandvoort at Night
Hiking in Zandvoort
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive dune system with looping trails, ponds, and wildlife; a prime spot for nature photography and peaceful walks.
Dune forest area with scenic overlooks and varied terrain; ample routes for all fitness levels.
Coastal to inland trails showcasing diverse landscapes, from sandy dunes to pine forests.
Airports
How to reach Zandvoort by plane.
Major international hub about 15–25 minutes by high-speed train or 25–40 minutes by car; frequent connections to domestic towns and international destinations.
Accessible by regional train and road, with several European flight options; useful for low-cost carriers and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for safe beaches, shallow water, and kid-friendly attractions along the coast.
Residents from nearby cities who come for weekend getaways, cycling, and seafood brunches.
Short trips from Amsterdam and Haarlem; attracted by beaches, dune parks, and easy rail connections.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Seasonal water sports on the North Sea with local schools offering lessons and equipment rental.
Popular all year; flat coastal routes and dune trails suit all levels and offer scenic views.
Seasonal courts and beach activity zones on popular stretches of sand during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zandvoort.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors will find plenty of cheese, veggie pastries, and salads in cafés; most fish-focused spots offer veggie alternatives, and many restaurants can adapt dishes upon request.