Nature and active in the Oostelijk Havengebied

Bogortuin

In a neighbourhood surrounded by water, you will of course find plenty of outdoor swimming locations. On sunny days, Bogortuin on Java Island is one of the most popular places to take a dip. Find a spot in the shade on the large lawn, take the picnic basket and a rug with you and make an afternoon of it. As you’re swimming, you can enjoy the spectacular views of the quirky buildings, iconic canals and photogenic bridges.

Borneo Island

On hot days, you’ll find another superb place to cool off at Borneo Island. Head to the jetty of the Entrepothaven where you can sunbathe on your towel or take a dip in the water. If it's not warm enough to swim, then why not take a walk around the stunning modern architecture of the area? The 90-meter-long Python Bridge meanders over the water like a snake.

Marineterrein

In the 17th century, the Marineterrein was built for the large VOC ships. Today, the area is teeming with cool waterside hangouts, designated swimming spots and cultural spaces. Swing over to Brewery Homeland for delicious beers with fantastic views over the water or tuck into some bang-up grub at Kanteen25 and Scheepskameel. There is a superb designated swimming area with stunning views over the Maritime Museum and the docked VOC ship replica. It's also traditionally the starting point for Amsterdam City Swim - a charity sports event which takes place each August.

Parks, green spaces and waterfront views

The Oostelijk Havengebied is rife with quiet spots to unwind and enjoy nature. Composed of several man-made peninsulas, the neighbourhood lives on and around the water, ensuring plenty of space to take in waterfront views. Wander along the Veemkade and enjoy splendid views of the IJ, or discover quiet Funenpark, which unlike traditional public parks is nestled between modern residential buildings. This quiet enclave feels more like a landscaped garden than a park.

Wind ‘n Wheels

If you like that windswept look, then you should try racing along the sand in a land yacht or kite buggy. Located on Zeeburgereiland to the east of the city, Wind ‘n Wheels will help to get your pulse racing with a session of land sailing (also known as ‘blokarting’). You’ll experience the same acceleration and g forces as you would on a go-kart, but the big twist is that your vessel is totally wind-powered. Other activities on-site include electro-cross and archery tag.

Vuurtoreneiland

Take the boat to one of Amsterdam’s top hidden gems: Vuurtoreneiland. Hop on a boat that departs from the Hoxton Llyod Hotel and explore this special uninhabited island. A unique piece of nature just off the shores of the city centre, Vuurtoreneiland is located in the middle of the IJmeer and is accessible only by boat. On it, you’ll find roaming animals, rare plants, a dilapidated fortress and Amsterdam's only lighthouse. There’s a year-round restaurant that serves seasonal produce and ingredients grown from the island's very own greenhouse. Note: you have to make a reservation to get to the island; you can't moor your own boat there.

Walking Route Oostelijk Havengebied

With its sweeping riverside vistas, its wealth of nature and plenty of cute historical spots to pop into, the Oostelijk Havengebied is the perfect place to explore on foot. Discover a walking route that takes you through decades of Dutch maritime history as you wander through this special neighbourhood. Composed of several man-made peninsulas, the land of the Oostelijk Havengebied was built up from soil taken the North Sea Canal - just another example of Dutch engineering ingenuity.