Need a break from the canals and cobblestones? Good news – you don’t need a car to enjoy a beach day in the Netherlands. In fact, some of the country’s best beaches are just a short train ride from Amsterdam! Whether you’re looking for dunes and peace, a party scene, or family-friendly sands, there’s a beach trip waiting for you.
Here are 7 beaches you can easily reach from Amsterdam by public transport – perfect for a sunny afternoon or even a moody walk on a windy day.
Contents
DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of those links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost for you.
1. Zandvoort aan Zee
Best for: A classic Dutch beach day with shops, beach bars, and wide sandy shores
Zandvoort is Amsterdam’s go-to beach, and for good reason. It’s lively in summer, lined with beach clubs (strandtenten), and ideal for swimming or people-watching. The beach is right next to the train station, so you can kick off your shoes just minutes after arriving. In summer, there are events, surf schools, and even a beach cinema on select evenings.
How to get there: Direct train from Amsterdam Centraal to Zandvoort aan Zee – around 30 minutes. Get your tickets in advance with NS (The Dutch Railways).
Bonus tip: Walk or bike into the nearby Zuid-Kennemerland National Park for peaceful dunes and wildlife.
Read more: How to explore Zuid-Kennemerland National Park
2. Bloemendaal aan Zee
Best for: Trendy beach bars and sunset cocktails
A short bike or bus ride north of Zandvoort, Bloemendaal is where Amsterdam’s younger crowd flocks for festivals, DJs, and chilled vibes. It’s got a “mini Ibiza” reputation in the summer. Think beanbags on the sand, fire pits at night, and DJs spinning into the sunset. Despite its party vibe, you can also find quieter patches just a short stroll north along the shore.
How to get there: Train to Overveen or Zandvoort, then bike or bus (about 15 min extra)
Bonus tip: Visit in the morning if you prefer a quieter beach – things get livelier by the afternoon.
3. Castricum aan Zee
Best for: Nature lovers and quieter beachgoers
A more relaxed vibe compared to Zandvoort, Castricum is bordered by dunes and forest. It’s ideal if you want to combine beach time with a walk or cycle in nature. There are walking trails straight from the beach into the Noordhollands Duinreservaat, one of the largest dune areas in the country. Facilities are modest – expect a few cafés and a more local, laid-back atmosphere.
How to get there: Train to Castricum (about 30 min), then bus 868 or rent a bike for a 6 km ride
Bonus tip: Pack a picnic – there are fewer commercial spots than at more touristy beaches.
4. Wijk aan Zee
Best for: A local feel and a unique setting near the dunes
This beach feels a little off the beaten path, with a mix of surfers, locals, and families. The surrounding dunes are peaceful and the beach has a slightly wilder look. Wijk aan Zee is also known for its strong waves, making it a popular surf spot. The town itself has a creative vibe, with murals, sculptures, and a small selection of cozy restaurants.
How to get there: Train to Beverwijk (30 min), then bus 78 or 73 (15 min) or bike
Bonus tip: Head to Timboektoe, a laid-back beach bar with a surfer vibe.
5. Egmond aan Zee
Best for: Family-friendly vibes and a charming beach town feel
Egmond is a cozy coastal town with a long beach, a historic lighthouse, and cute streets filled with shops and cafés. Perfect if you want a beach with a touch of small-town charm. The beach has calm waves and plenty of space, great for kids to run around safely. The promenade is lined with snack bars and ice cream shops, and there’s often a market on weekends.
How to get there: Train to Alkmaar (35 min), then bus 165 or 167 (20 min)
Bonus tip: Stop in Alkmaar on the way back to see the cheese market (Fridays, spring–early autumn).
6. IJmuiden aan Zee
Best for: Wide open spaces and a maritime feel
This industrial-port-meets-nature beach isn’t the most polished, but it has a certain rugged charm. It’s popular with kite surfers and walkers, and much less touristy than others. The beach is massive – perfect if you like space, wind, and a more local feel. There’s also a marina and a handful of seafood spots where you can grab fresh kibbeling or mussels.
How to get there: Train to Station Sloterdijk (5 min), then bus 382 (45 min)
Bonus tip: Visit the nearby bunkers and sea locks for a peek into Dutch water engineering.
7. Scheveningen (The Hague)
Best for: A full-on beach resort experience with a pier, Ferris wheel, and loads to do
It’s further away, but totally doable as a day trip. Scheveningen is big, busy, and fun – great for families, couples, or anyone who wants a full-day outing with beach + city. You’ll find everything from paddle boarding and beach volleyball to shopping and high-end dining. The pier even has a zipline and bungee jump if you’re feeling brave.
How to get there: Train to Den Haag Centraal (50 min), then tram 9 or 1 to the beach (15 min)
Bonus tip: Combine with a stroll through The Hague or a visit to the Mauritshuis museum.
Read more: Best things to do in The Haag; What to do in Scheveningen
Final Tips for Your Beach Day from Amsterdam:
- Pack layers! Even in summer, the wind can be chilly.
- Always check the weather – apps like Buienradar are great for tracking sudden rain.
- Bring your OV-chipkaart or use a contactless debit/credit card on trains and buses. Read here everything about travelling by public transport in the Netherlands.
- Snacks help – some beaches have limited dining outside peak season.
Want to turn your beach day into a weekend? Many of these spots have great local B&Bs and coastal hiking routes if you want to extend the escape.
Which beach are you heading to first?
