The Most Beautiful Towns on the Dutch Coast
When you think of a vacation in the Netherlands, endless cycling tours and lovely walks come to mind first. But many people don't realize that Holland lies right on the North Sea and boasts stunning beaches. The Dutch coastline promises gentle dunes, water sports, and endless beach walks — no matter the season. A beach holiday in Holland is a true delight, because it's not just the beaches that are charming. The small fishing villages and towns along the Dutch coast have plenty to offer and provide visitors with attractive leisure activities. Here are the five most beautiful towns on the Dutch coast.
Noordwijk
The charming little town of Noordwijk lies between Haarlem and The Hague and truly has everything you need for a perfect vacation. The town center offers plenty of opportunities for a shopping afternoon — fashion boutiques, shoe stores, and souvenir shops abound. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and freshly caught fish can be found on Kerkstraat. You can also pick up quality meat for a barbecue evening on the terrace of your holiday accommodation. The market is located right in the historic center of Noordwijk. You can also enjoy fantastic dining in Noordwijk. A Dutch tradition are the pancake houses — "pannekoekenhuisje" in Dutch — which are absolutely worth a visit. Noordwijk aan Zee also features many small beach pavilions, such as the Alexander Beach Club or Beachclub O.
Kijkduin
When thinking of beach resorts in The Hague, most people will probably mention Scheveningen first. But with Kijkduin, The Hague has another attractive holiday destination that doesn't immediately come to mind. The most beautiful stretch of beach in The Hague can be found in Kijkduin — or more precisely, at Zuiderstrand. It's less crowded and, with the "Sand Motor," offers a touch of the Caribbean. Here you'll find sand as far as the eye can see. Several years ago, a coastal protection project was launched. The Sand Motor is an artificial sandbank designed to protect the vulnerable region of The Hague, Scheveningen, and Kijkduin from flooding. Since then, a peninsula stretching two kilometers long and one kilometer into the sea has existed. This artificial spectacle is freely accessible and perfect for beautiful walks. And if you want to venture beyond Kijkduin, you can enjoy wonderful city trips and shopping afternoons in Scheveningen or The Hague. Especially for a short break in Holland by the sea, Kijkduin is a perfect choice.
Egmond aan Zee
Egmond aan Zee was once a small fishing village with deep traditions and is by no means a large town on the Dutch coast. But its town center is nonetheless very attractive and well worth a visit. You'll find many small cafés, boutiques, a town museum, and above all, picturesque little houses. The landmark of Egmond aan Zee is the J.C.J. van Speijk lighthouse. From the 28-meter-tall tower, you'll enjoy the best views — a wonderful panorama of the Dutch coastline and the beach. Speaking of the beach: Egmond aan Zee's beach is considered one of the cleanest in North Holland and has been awarded the Blue Flag, which stands for cleanliness and excellent bathing water quality, among other things. From Egmond aan Zee, you also have easy access to Alkmaar, the town famous for its cheese market.
Callantsoog
A little further north of Egmond aan Zee lies the next wonderful seaside resort. Callantsoog is a dreamy coastal town and ideal for a family vacation with children. Callantsoog also impresses with its fine sandy beaches, dunes, and walking trails that stretch as far as your feet will carry you. If you need a break after a long beach walk, Callantsoog also has beach pavilions where you can enjoy excellent food and recharge. Shopping is also very popular in Callantsoog. In the town center, there's a large supermarket where you can stock up on groceries for your holiday home stay. You'll also find various fashion shops and boutiques. For children, a trip to Zoo Landgoed Hoenderdaell would be a great attraction. The animal park is located near the Amstelmeer — just about 20 minutes from Callantsoog. At Landgoed Hoenderdaell, you'll find many big cats, birds, monkeys, and plenty of smaller animals. The most remarkable attraction in Callantsoog is undoubtedly Fort Kijkduin. The monument lies at the northernmost point of the Dutch mainland and was originally built by Napoleon Bonaparte. It once served as a base for his soldiers; today it has been transformed into an attractive museum.
Zandvoort aan Zee
Zandvoort aan Zee is probably the most well-known destination on the Dutch coast for most tourists. It's especially popular with a younger crowd. Besides the many modern beach pavilions, you'll also find nightclubs and discos in Zandvoort's center. Another entertainment option is the Holland Casino. On rainy days, Zandvoort aan Zee offers perfect alternatives with a cinema and several amusement and adventure arcades. At first glance, Zandvoort's town center may not look particularly dazzling. But you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities and can pass the time along the promenade whenever you're not spending time on Zandvoort aan Zee's beautiful beach.





