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As summer comes to an end and a distinct crisp sneaks back into the air, plan for one more spontaneous trip to somewhere unexpected and budget-friendly — Scheveningen in the Netherlands. This district within the city of The Hague is a tourist’s delight, with harbors, arcades, a pier, lighthouse, massive Ferris wheel and most importantly, a beach. Once an independent fishing village, Scheveningen is now the most famous beach resort in the Netherlands. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
Activities
Surfing
Body jumping off the pier
Windsurfing
Kayaking
Jet Skiing
Flyboarding
Banana Boating
Walking, biking or horseback riding on the dunes
Walking, biking or hiking in the Scheveningen Forest
Watching the sunset while sipping on a drink
Roaming the boardwalk
Riding the Ferris wheel
Shopping on Frederik Hendriklaan street
Visiting the two-leveled pier
Restaurants
Bagels and Beans- coffee and breakfast/lunch
Firma Pickles- burgers and wine
Pastanini- Italian
De Dis- French
Indian Bay Dreams- Indian food
Catch by Simonis- seafood
Eetcafé De Maatschappij- restaurant/bar
Bonbon-Atelier Westerbeek Sinds 1910- chocolates
Accommodations
Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus- this 5-Star luxury hotel and spa sits right on the beach and offers the most stunning views from a building that was built in the early 1800s.
Ibis Hotel- this 3-Star hotel sits just off the beach right by the tram and has a breakfast buffet.
Hotel Plato- this business hotel is best for big groups, as it has rooms, apartments and studios.
Getting There
If you are flying to the Netherlands, fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. From there, it’s less than an hour by car or train. There are bus routes that take approximately two hours. If you are in Scheveningen and driving to the beach, the closest place to park near the pier is at BKS Parking – Kurhaus. To save money consider BKS Parking – Zwarte Pad, it’s less crowded and will potentially save you time from endlessly searching for an open spot. If you are taking public transportation, take the 9 tram from Den Haag Centraal.
With an endless list of things to do near the beach and in the town, Scheveningen is a fantastic place to close out the summer. Who knows, maybe you’ll actually enjoy the raw herring! Throw your swimming suit and towel in a bag and head to Scheveningen for the beach vacation of your dreams.
(Note: Accommodations, landmarks and tourist attractions are taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Check their websites ahead of time to learn about their restrictions such as wearing a mask and required online reservations.)
