Free beaches in the Netherlands

Scheveningen – one of the most popular free beaches in the Netherlands

Scheveningen, near The Hague, is one of the most popular free beaches in the Netherlands. It has a wide beach, a lively promenade, and many places where you can walk or relax.

If you go on a weekend with good weather, it is recommended to arrive earlier, because the area gets crowded quickly.

Zandvoort – close to Amsterdam

If you live in or reach the Amsterdam area, Zandvoort is an excellent choice.

The train leaves you very close to the beach, and access is free. It is the right place for a few hours of relaxation after a week of work.

Bloemendaal aan Zee – for those who prefer peace and quiet

If you want a calmer atmosphere, Bloemendaal aan Zee is a very good choice.

Many DB Work professionals prefer this beach because it is less crowded and suitable for a walk, a picnic, or a few hours spent with colleagues.

What you should know before entering the water

On beaches in the Netherlands, you will notice flags that indicate whether it is safe to swim.

Green flag – you can enter the water safely.

Yellow flag – be careful, there are stronger waves or currents.

Red flag – entering the water is forbidden.

Red and yellow flag – area supervised by lifeguards.

Always respect these signs. Even if the sea looks calm, the currents can be strong.

What you should take with you

For a day at one of the free beaches in the Netherlands, you do not need many things.

We recommend taking:

• a towel;

• water and possibly sunscreen;

• something to eat;

• a sweater or a light jacket, because it can get cooler in the evening.

If you prepare everything at home, you will avoid unnecessary expenses at the restaurants and terraces on the beach.

Lakes where you can cool off in summer

The North Sea is not the only option. In the Netherlands, there are also many lakes arranged for swimming, as well as many options for fishing, if this is one of your hobbies.

Loosdrechtse Plassen, Utrecht

A huge lake complex, perfect for swimming or simply for spending a day on the grass by the water. The water is warmer than at the sea, and there are no waves.

• How to get there: from Utrecht by bus, around 40 minutes.

• Atmosphere: natural, with many families.

Veluwemeer, Gelderland

A large lake in the eastern part of the Netherlands, with free arranged beaches. It is very popular in summer, especially for those staying in the Gelderland region.

• How to get there: by train to Harderwijk, then by bus.

• Atmosphere: relaxed, with fewer tourists than on the coast.

Het Twiske, near Amsterdam – nature and beaches close to the city

If you are in the Amsterdam area and want to relax by the water, Het Twiske is a natural area with lakes, beaches, and plenty of green space.

• How to get there: by bus from Amsterdam or by car, in about 20–30 minutes.

• Atmosphere: quiet, with plenty of green space, suitable for relaxing with colleagues.

Access to these lakes is free, and the water is often warmer than the sea water.

Check whether you need to pay for parking if you come together with your colleagues using a DB Work car.

An advantage for DB Work professionals

Many DB Work professionals use their days off to discover new places in the Netherlands together with their colleagues.

Within the usage conditions, meaning 20 additional kilometres per week, DB Work company cars can also be used for short-distance personal trips, which makes free-time outings easier.

Frequently asked questions

Are beaches in the Netherlands free?

Yes. Access to most beaches is free. You only pay if you choose to rent sunbeds, umbrellas, buy something at the terraces, or use public toilets.

Can I get to the beach without a car?

Yes. Most beaches are easily accessible by train or bus.

Is the water very cold?

In summer, the water temperature is around 18–20°C, so it is quite cold. Inland lakes are usually a little warmer.

Can I have a barbecue?

On most seaside beaches, barbecues are not allowed. However, some lakes have specially arranged picnic and barbecue areas.

Conclusion

If you work in the Netherlands through DB Work, you do not need to spend a lot to enjoy your free time. There are many free beaches in the Netherlands and lakes where you can go at the weekend for a few hours of relaxation with your colleagues.

After a week of work, a day spent at the sea or by a lake can be enough to rest and start the next week with more energy.

If you want to plan your free time even better, find out how to organize your free time in summer with minimal costs.

 

WHAT BENEFITS DOES DB WORK OFFER WHEN YOU START WORKING IN THE NETHERLANDS?

• Accommodation with everything you need for a comfortable living;
• Local transport provided with DB Work company vehicles;
• Work equipment and protective gear;
• Health insurance included;
• Support throughout the entire contract period;
• Access to guides with complete information about living in the Netherlands;
• Access to the Plan4Flex application, where you receive real-time information.