Where to beach in Amsterdam: 9 best places for summer fun

Amsterdam is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. There are always a lot of tourists, a lot of traffic and noise. There are also good places to take a break from all this hustle and bustle as incredible beaches near Amsterdam will be a great way to spend warm days. We're sure that Amsterdam is not the first thing that comes to your mind when it comes to beach vacations. And it's unlikely that you'd put this place even in the top ten destinations for a vacation by the water. You may even be wondering if there are beaches in Amsterdam at all. But this city is used to surprise. The beaches in the Netherlands near Amsterdam offer photogenic views of the rugged North Sea coastline, plenty of water sports, and a wide variety of activities. Head to the best beaches in Amsterdam to soak up the sun and get a break from the city. Trust me, they'll surprise you more than once.

1. Pllek

One of the best beaches close to Amsterdam is located near the NDSM industrial centre in the trendy Noord district. Exhibitions and events take place here. But the small coastal strip by the river IJ is no less attractive to locals, where they come for a weekend of fun and swimming. There are many bars and restaurants here, including Pllek's own restaurant. There is a good selection of drinks, burgers, and live music. The beach is easy to get to by public transport, which contributes to its popularity. It's a good choice for a vacation if you plan to sunbathe, swim, or go kiteboarding and windsurfing.

2. Bloemendaal

A popular beach that claims to be the alternative to Ibiza in the Netherlands is a short drive from the centre of Amsterdam. A collection of beach clubs such as Vroeger and Woodstock 69 invite guests to party hard with world-class live music. There are regular live bands and DJs throwing dance parties under the stars until late into the night. There's plenty of sunbathing, swimming, windsurfing, and great views of the North Sea. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes close to the beach to relax in after your beach adventures in Amsterdam.

3. Strandzuid

One of the busiest beaches in Amsterdam with clear water and clean sand is located in a modern lakeside complex. It's a charming place to relax by the water and enjoy the sun and windsurfing. There are restaurants, bars, playgrounds, umbrella and sun lounger rentals, and all the necessary amenities for fun with friends and family. There are plenty of events and activities in the summer, but the winter season will also offer cool entertainment. The beach has a large outdoor terrace on the water, and there are campfire sites and lounge chairs on the sand for barbecuing and spending time in the evening on the beach in Amsterdam. It's a great place to hang out with friends on the beer terrace and play ping pong.

4. Zandvoort

This coastal town in the province of North Holland with its magnificent coastline was a fishing port in 1100. It later developed into a popular seaside resort. Today, the golden sandy shore with crystal clear waters, stretching for more than two kilometres, is among the coolest beaches near Amsterdam. It can be reached by train from the capital in a few minutes. There's plenty of space to spread out on a towel or sun lounger while sipping a cocktail, but there are also plenty of beach restaurants and bars nearby. Zandvoort is known for its cascading dunes and as the site of the recent Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix, so this Amsterdam beach is always busy, especially in summer.

5. Buitenzwembad Marineterrein

This place offers a unique beach vacation in an urban setting. To be honest, it is technically not a beach as the council has not listed it as an official beach in Amsterdam yet. But it has all the necessary elements to make it on the list. There are plenty of swimmers filling the established group of floating pontoons in the bright sunshine. There are plenty of adventures for water sports enthusiasts on this attractive shoreline. If you're wary of entering the water, there are outdoor and indoor swimming pools nearby, as well as a water playground for children, steam and changing rooms. Other amenities include bike rentals, restaurants, showers and restrooms.

6. Wijk aan Zee

One of the best beaches near Amsterdam for surfing boasts breathtaking views of the North Place and the clearest water on the coast in the Netherlands. It is a popular place to take surf lessons, kite and windsurf, swim and enjoy a panoramic sunset. Families love to come here with their kids to fly kites on windy days. Amsterdam's spacious Ijmuiden Strand is also the widest urban beach in the Netherlands, It was awarded the Blue Flag for the 12th time in 2023. There are showers, lifeguards on duty, the Timboektoe beach club, and numerous cafes, restaurants, and terraces with traditional Dutch treats. There is also a quaint village near the beach between the North Pier and the North Holland Dune Reserve where you can bike and stroll downtown on the cozy Julianaplein with its many restaurants, hotels, cafes, and stores.

7. Castricum aan Zee

You can easily get to this beach located north of the city centre by public transportation. It's sandy and wide, stocked with plenty of umbrellas and sun loungers, and perfect for a relaxed afternoon of sunbathing and swimming. It differs from other coastal beaches around Amsterdam because it has no village in the neighbourhood. This quiet spot with golden sand combines a calm, measured atmosphere with natural beauty. But the area also has bars and restaurants, a few small stores, and a children's playground. The beach is popular with townspeople, surfers, and recreational fishermen.

8. IJmuiden

The best beach near Amsterdam for water sports from kayaking to kitesurfing to blockboarding is at the mouth of the river IJ. This hidden gem northwest of the capital has everything to offer for a fun and active beach day. The beach stretches for about one kilometre and is famous for its clear water, calm waves, and beautiful views. If you're not a fan of outdoor activities, here you can sit on the shore and watch the giant cruise and cargo ships go by. You can also check one of the many beach pavilions to enjoy a cool drink and watch the sunset.

9.  Sloterplast

One of the most beautiful beaches near Amsterdam is located in the green New West neighbourhood on Lake Sloterplas, surrounded by beautiful forests. It is a quiet place for family vacations with crystal clear water, always a little cool and refreshing. if it is warm, you can rent chairs and volleyball equipment, play soccer and table tennis, attend instructional classes at the water sports centre and sailing school, or rent equipment. This beach is also suitable for sunbathing and walking along the shore on park trails and bike paths. There are several cafes and restaurants and sun lounger rentals near the beach.