Outdoor swimming spots in Amsterdam

Note: As with all outdoor swimming spots, water quality can vary. Check for warnings and updates on the zwemwater website (in Dutch) including a map with all the official swimming locations. Swimming can be dangerous and is not without risks. Never dive into a canal.

Within Amsterdam

Park Somerlust, Zuid

This swimming favourite, Park Somerlust, on the southern bank of the River Amstel, looks out over the highrises at Amstel Station, but still gives you the feeling of being in the middle of nature. There is a jetty to jump from (though be advised the water is deep), a large grassy lawn to dry off on after your dip and handy temporary toilets in the summer months.

Please note: While popular, Park Somerlust is not an official swimming location, and therefore, the water quality is not checked here.

Sloterplas, Nieuw-West

The beautifully spacious Sloterpark is a park in Amsterdam’s Nieuw West with a large lake (Sloterplas) in the middle. Locals flock to its urban beach for picnics, family outings and games of volleyball. If you prefer a dash of chlorine in your swimming water, the Sloterparkbad is only a minute away. You can also make use of the large outdoor swimming pool, Otisport Zwembad Sloterparkpad, in warmer months.

Please note: Sloterstrand is not currently an official swimming location due to poor water quality.

Marineterrein, Centrum

Marineterrein is an increasingly popular spot that offers exceptional views of Nemo, Central Station, and the impressive ship docked outside the National Maritime Museum. You'll find floating boardwalks to jump off and a large shaded grassy area perfect for picnicking. It's recently been designated an official swimming location.

Diemerpark, Oost

Another urban beach is Amsterdam’s Diemerpark, which offers a slower pace and tranquil atmosphere, and is an officially designated swimming spot. You would never guess it from the idyllic surroundings, but Diemerpark was once a rubbish dump. The whole area has been meticulously cleaned since, and the water quality is closely monitored.

Gaasperplas, Zuidoost

We have the construction of the Bijlmermeer to thank for the charming Gaasperplas recreational area - an official swimming spot. It was created from the sand extraction required for the construction of the tower blocks there. The exquisite nature reserve has a wide beach and a spacious lawn to spread your towel. Best of all, it can be easily accessed by Metro.

Amsterdamse Bos, Amstelveen

Amsterdam’s largest landscape park, Amsterdamse Bos, is three times bigger than Central Park, it attracts 6 million visitors a year, and has an excellent spot for swimming called 'De Groote Speelweide'. There is also a designated area for little ones to paddle safely while parents relax on the grass.

Nieuwe Meer, Amstelveen

Next to the Amsterdamse Bos lies a large lake with three official swimming areas (Westzijde, Noordoever and Nieuwe Meer). Easily accessible by public transport or bicycle, you will find a beach and several private coves along the lake's edges. The lake seems endlessly large, and the water is surprisingly clear. Don't be surprised if you see SUPpers or canoeists passing by now and then because this place is teeming with water sports clubs.

De Hoge Dijk, Zuidoost

On the edge of the city, south of Amsterdam and north of Abcoude lies the serene recreation area known as De Hoge Dijk. In addition to a large golf course, you will find a sandy beach and a shallow play area for the little ones. Experienced swimmers can also make use of an officially designated swimming zone where the water ranges in depth from 1.4 to 2.5 metres.

In the Amsterdam Area

Het Twiske, Old Holland

Begin your swim with a scenic bike ride through the Old Holland region, where you will find no fewer than ten different places to swim. Het Twiske recreational area is home to Speelsloot, Kure-Jan Strand, Doesstrand and many more spots for cooling off in the water. You can also rent canoes, row boats and sailboats to head off on your own adventure.

Ouderkerkerplas, Castles & Gardens

Cool off from a bike ride with a bracing dip in Ouderkerkerplas. This unique spot on the border of Zuidoost and Ouderkerk aan de Amstel in the Castles & Gardens region is a paradise for seasoned swimmers and divers. At the same time, the sandy beaches, shallow shoreline and nearby playgrounds make it ideal for the whole family.