Head for the beach… no need to leave the city. Urban beaches are a new and rapidly growing phenomenon in Amsterdam. With some ten city beaches - including one atop the towering science centre NEMO overlooking the city - Amsterdam offers a refreshing twist on the traditional sun and sand experience during the summer, while maintaining all the perks of big city culture.
Amsterdam’s newest city beach is Strand West: a broad sandy expanse with a panoramic view of the River IJ. Laze in a hammock or beanbag, sip a cool cocktail, snack on tapas or play a game of beach volleyball. A popular sandy beach, with a bohemian vibe, is Blijburg aan Zee. Situated on the eastern side of the modern IJburg island complex, the beach is 250 metres long and 40 metres wide. It hosts evening campfires and often a DJ or live band.
Those looking to sunbathe in the trendiest of places can hop onboard the luxurious Supperclub Cruise. Designed by famous design agency Concrete, the boat is paradise to a young, trendy Amsterdam crowd. Recline, dine and sip rosé on the cushions on the sun deck while a DJ spins relaxed summer sounds in the background.
A beach in the middle of the concrete jungle, Strand Zuid is located in the shadow of the RAI Convention Centre. Relax in the lounge chairs, sip and sample great food as DJs play the decks.
BadBuiten is the first floating pool in the Netherlands. In BadBuiten anyone can swim with magnificent views over the Amstel River, every day between 11 and 23 hours (April and May between 12 and 18 hours).
In front of the bath is a large terrace where you can drink and eat something (also if you don't want to go for a swim).
Then there's perhaps the most alternative beach of them all, BovenNEMO. Science centre NEMO is a massive green boat-like structure in the centre of Amsterdam. BovenNEMO (literally meaning on top of NEMO) is located on its unmistakable sloping roof, yielding some of the most spectacular views of the city centre. There you can enjoy a fun day with the family, with lots of activities especially for the kids, or watch the sun go down in the evening, chilling out while DJs spin their tunes.





