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Amsterdams most beautiful city beaches
Kaap Amsterdam
Image from Kaap Amsterdam

Amsterdams most beautiful city beaches

Updated 26 May 2026 at 11:20
Amsterdam offers many opportunities to feel the sand between your toes without leaving the city. Below, we have listed some of our favourites among the city's beaches.

Strandzuid

The terrace of Strandzuid
Image from Photo Republic / Bibi Neuray

Between the RAI and Beatrixpark is the 2000-square-meter Strandzuid. Here, you can enjoy a sunny brunch or a summer dinner on the terrace by the water. If you prefer lounging, settle down on one of the sunbeds and enjoy a refreshing drink with friends while DJs spin behind the turntables.

Pllek

People lounging on beach chairs at Pllek with view over 't IJ
Image from Jasmijn de Graaff
Pllek café-restaurant outdoor cinema
Image from Pllek
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 Amsterdammers from all corners of the city come to this urban beach in Noord for sun-soaked relaxation and river views. Pllek is also known for tasty food, DJs/live music, and a great atmosphere, no matter what time of day (or night) you visit.

  • Pllek | tt. Neveritaweg 59 

Kaap

Kaap Amsterdam
Image from Kaap Amsterdam
Kaap Amsterdam
Image from Kaap Amsterdam
Kaap Amsterdam
Image from Kaap Amsterdam
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''A haven of uninhibited enjoyment and sustainable pleasure.'' This is how founder Stefano Richetta describes ‘his’ Kaap Amsterdam. The city beach is located on the Oostpunt Zeeburgereiland and features a vegetarian restaurant with a menu full of local products. Head there for a coffee, a delicous meal or even a yoga class.

Het Stenen Hoofd

Sailing Ferry Stenenhoofd Westerdoksdijk
Image from Koen Smilde

This former harbour pier is now a park overlooking the river IJ on the edge of Houthavens. It’s a popular spot for dog owners and sunbathers alike that hosts various cultural events throughout the year. As dogs are allowed to roam freely here, its the ideal place for an outing with your four-legged friend or to receive spontaneous cuddles from other dogs while sunbathing.

Swimming beach Sloterplas

Beach Sloterplas, child playing on the beach
Image from MAARTEN BRANTE

This swimming beach in Westerpark is undergoing development and has been transformed into a popular city beach. There is plenty to do here: volleyball, sports and game programmes, delicious food and drinks, and occasionally attending a performance or festival.

Strand IJburg

Strand IJburg
Image from Strand IJburg
Strand IJburg shop
Image from Strand IJburg
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The largest island of the IJburg archipelago contains a beach worth travelling for. At Strand IJburg, you can enjoy the beach and water, play volleyball, skate, play football, or take lessons to learn to stand-up paddleboard or surf. At VrIJland, there's plenty to do for young and old, including workshops, food, summer camps, and much more.

Gaasperplas

People sitting and swimming at Gaasperplas.
Image from Koen Smilde

On the south shore of Gaasperpark there is a vast sandy beach. With its water playground with climbing frames, a slide, and even the covered playground Ballorig it's Perfect for kids. You will also find showers, toilets, and barbecue areas here—basically everything you need on a hot day!

Sand Beach / Green Beach Ouderkerkerplas

Groengebied-Amstelland
Image from Groengebied-Amstelland

At Ouderkerkerplas, you will find 2 beaches: a sandy beach on the north bank and a green beach on the south bank. Both beaches are equipped with play structures and the water is no deeper than 1.40 meters within the ball lines, meaning that the little ones are free to splash around happily and safely.

De Nieuwe Meer

People on the beach of lake Nieuwe Meer.
Image from Koen Smilde

This lake has a number of beaches where you can relax on sunny days. Besides enjoying the sun and cooling off in the water, feel free to indulge in various watersports such as windsurfing, sailing, stand-up paddling, or boating.