Things to do at Amsterdam Beach

Hike through beautiful dunes

The dunes surrounding Wijk aan Zee offer a tranquil escape into nature. A network of walking and cycling trails winds through the expansive coastal reserve, guiding you past dune valleys, serene dune lakes, and shaded forests. One highlight is the Paasduin, rising about 30 meters high, which provides sweeping views of the village and the ships approaching the North Pier. The National Park Zuid-Kennemerland is a short distance away and is home to a special variety of flora and fauna. Old oak forests, sand dunes and park forests alternate here, and there are various routes to explore all this on foot or by bike.

Spot incredible wildlife

The Netherlands has a wealth of unspoilt national parks and nature areas, and National Park Zuid-Kennemerland truly demonstrates the country's beauty. Spend a day exploring its 38 hectares of dunes, forests and hidden swimming holes, and see if you can spot some of the wildlife that inhabits the area. Hike, bike or horse ride along the park’s numerous paths, and you might spot the elusive European bison, red deer, cattle and more. To the south of Zandvoort, you’ll find a nature reserve called the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen. The area is home to unique flora and fauna and bunkers used as defence lines during the Second World War. Take a walking tour to see these historical sites, and you can also spot some of the native wildlife along the way, including foxes and roe deer.

Ride the waves or go blokarting

The wide sandy beaches of IJmuiden, Wijk aan Zee, Zandvoort, and Bloemendaal are perfect for thrill-seekers. The Dutch coast offers top-notch water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, sea kayaking, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sea rafting—many with schools and rental options available. Prefer to stay dry? Try blokarting—a wind-powered go-kart that lets you race across the beach at high speeds with no traffic or rules. It’s fast, fun, and totally unique. No equipment? No problem—beach sport providers like Eventmaker and Seaside Sports have you covered. The vast, open beaches of IJmuiden are especially ideal for high-speed adventures on land or sea.

Race supercars and go-karts

Soak up the sounds of screaming engines with a visit to the iconic motorsport race track Circuit Zandvoort, hidden among the dunes of this unassuming beach town and surrounded by a scenic walking route and mountain bike trail. Daredevils can hop in a Lamborghini, Aston Martin or McLaren to test their driving skills, while the younger ones can practice theirs in a go-kart. Then, in August, the Netherlands gets set for the annual Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix 2025, which hits the tarmac in Zandvoort. Make your way down to the coast for an unmissable weekend of high-speed manoeuvres.

Cosy up in a beach cafe

There’s nothing quite like sipping on a cocktail while watching the waves crash against the shoreline, and Amsterdam Beach has a perfect place for it: the beach clubs of Zandvoort and IJmuiden. Dozens of these cosy spots line the sand, each catering to a different crowd. Hit Woodstock 69 to hang with the hippies, listen to live music, or go to Republiek for a romantic, sophisticated date. Wijk aan Zee boasts the widest beach in the Netherlands, offering ample space for both relaxation and adventure. Cosy beach pavilions nestled along the dunes and hotels with stunning dune-top views provide comfort and convenience. The expansive sandy shoreline is perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply soaking up the sun.

Cycle fantastic routes

No list of things to do in Amsterdam is complete without a bicycle tour. For those that aren’t used to cycling long distances, try out a Dutch Pedelec Tour – not only will you use an electric bike, helping you cycle with ease, but the tour company will also help you map out your route to make the most of your time exploring Amsterdam Beach. They also offer the services of a professional guide, who can show you the rugged beauty of National Park Zuid-Kennemerland, among many other tours.

Watch the birds and eat fish

The beach at IJmuiden is a fantastic spot for sports and nature lovers. While enjoying the breeze, sit back and watch the massive cruise ships and boats pass by. But don’t forget the birds! At the piers, you can spot birds rarely sighted at other places on the Dutch coastline. Look out for sandpipers, seagulls, plovers, rock pipits, turnstones, cormorants, gannets, and red-tailed godwits - check the Bird Protection Society’s guide for all the species to spot. Or, take a walk to the end of the pier to marvel at Zeesluis IJmuiden - Europe’s largest lock complex. If you want to try fishing, head to the colourful port home to many fishing boats. Feeling hungry? Enjoy some fresh fish straight off the boats at the harbour’s many excellent restaurants.

Appreciate culture in unexpected places

Culture lovers heading to Amsterdam Beach will be pleasantly surprised at the number of options available. Country Estate Beeckestijn, an 18th-century summer residence in Velsen-Zuid, is rich in history and features a massive, unique landscaped garden perfect for a midday stroll. Those interested in WWII history can visit The Bunker Museum and Forteiland IJmuiden, a UNESCO World Monument or check out the incredible street murals lining the seaside town of Zandvoort. Meanwhile, hidden amongst the dunes, the ruins of the medieval Brederode Castle (looted and burnt down by Spanish soldiers) remain beautiful and worthy of exploring as a reminder of what was lost but not forgotten. Read our culture guide to Amsterdam Beach for more.

Feel the sand between your toes

Amsterdam has a remarkable coastline, with stretches of sandy shore you'll love to dig your toes into. Every Amsterdammer’s coastal retreat in the summer, Zandvoort is for those who want beach and buzz. With several beach clubs dotted along Zandvoort’s long sandy strip, there’s plenty of choice for lounging out on the deckchairs while you sip on a drink. Likewise, the expansive beaches at Bloemendaal aan Zee, Wijk aan Zee and Heemskerk don't get too crowded, so you should always be able to find your spot to relax. You can swim in the sea, seek out some water sports, or head to one of the many restaurants for something refreshing to drink and a bite to eat. Even a few nudist beaches are dotted along the coastline for the more adventurous.

Explore peaceful coastal villages

Nestled along the Dutch coastline, the hidden villages of Wijk aan Zee and Heemskerk offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle. Wijk aan Zee charms with its wide sandy beach and cultural scene, while Heemskerk captivates with its historic castles, bustling markets and lush greenery. Both provide a serene escape, combining natural beauty with rich local heritage. Throughout the year, Wijk aan Zee hosts several events, including the Ezels en Kwasten (Donkeys and Brushes) art festival, where around one hundred artists showcase their work. Another highlight is the Jutterspad (Beachcomber’s Path), featuring mini-concerts at 20 locations across the village, along with the charming Smaakmarkten (Taste Markets), which bring together local food and culture.