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The Netherlands often spark thoughts of having a grand time in Amsterdam; but have you ever considered going to the beach there? You should! Zandvoort is a popular beach resort destination perched on the North Sea that caters to tourists. Though it was once a fishing village, it now features numerous beach clubs and plenty of outdoor activities. Hop on public transportation from Amsterdam and get ready for a grand time!
Your first stop here should be the beach, obviously. Whether you want to surf, stand-up paddleboard, kite surf, swim or soak up the sun, this is the place. The sand stretches on for over five miles and there’s plenty of room for your towel, as the width of the beach is around 300 feet. Bring a frisbee or gather a group to play sand volleyball for the perfect afternoon in the sun.
One of the main draws to the area is the excessive amount of beach clubs. There are over 30 along the sand and each offers something a little different. Ajuma is an Asian-style pavilion located away from the hustle and bustle of the beach-goers. Here you’ll find Asian-fusion food, as well as beach yoga and massages. Bring your appetite and try anything from bao with Peking duck to pad thai or ramen.
If you’re a motorhead, you can’t miss the Circuit Zandvoort. This motorsport racing track is located in the dunes and offers visitors a chance to feel like a racecar driver! Schedule a race experience and drive a Ferrari, Aston Martin, Lamborghini or Porsche. If you’d rather just watch, events include anything from supercar races to old-timer car shows.
If you’d rather be more active, the area is surrounded by two beautiful nature parks. North of the area is Zuid-Kennemerland, the perfect place for a hike or cycle. Start at the visitors’ center, where kids will love the outdoor water playground, and plan your trip from there. Head to the Wisent Lookout Point, where you can see the local herd of “European bison.” If you love horses, consider riding along the beach and through the dunes. Admission is free.
South of Zandvoort is Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen. Head here to get up close and personal with nature. Book an early morning nature walk or hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Kids will love the specialized walk created just for them to learn more about trees. Admission is 1.50 euros each.
It’s easy to get to Zandvoort from Amsterdam. You can take bus 80 from Marnixstraat in central Amsterdam or get on the train at Amsterdam Central Station, which has a transfer in Haarlem. During the summer months when travel demand is higher, a train runs directly from Amsterdam to Zandvoort and only takes about 30 minutes. If you have a car, it takes anywhere from 40 - 45 minutes, but expect traffic delays.
If you’ve been considering a trip to Amsterdam, add Zandvoort to your list of things to do while in the area. You can get outside of the city and enjoy the fresh sea air. Take a hike in one of the nature parks or just lounge on the beach. Regardless of what you do, you’re sure to have a blast at this beach resort!
