If you’re in Amsterdam and feel like escaping the city for a day, Zandvoort is one of those places that’s just perfect for that. It’s nearby, super easy to reach, and it just gives off those relaxed beach town vibes.
This is how we like to spend a day in Zandvoort; showing you a different, more local side of the beach town. A little more unique than just walking straight from the station to the first beach bar you see (which can be nice sometimes too, haha). We’ll take you along some of our favourite food spots, to quieter beaches, and even a bit of action on the water. It’s the kind of day we love ourselves: relaxed, a little active, and full of good food.
Getting to Zandvoort from Amsterdam
Zandvoort is really easy to reach from Amsterdam. You can take the train from Amsterdam Central and be in Zandvoort in just around 30 minutes. Once you arrive, it’s only a short walk to the beach.
Start your day with coffee and brunch at Kayuca
Once you get there, begin your day with some coffee and a great brunch. Kayuca is one of our favourite beach spots with comfy lounge sofas, cute parasols, and exactly the kind of beach vibes you’re looking for. They serve everything from yoghurt bowls to Korean Chicken burgers, with plenty of veggie options too.
Walk south towards the quieter beach areas
After brunch, head south along the coastline. This stretch of the beach becomes quieter the further you walk, and it’s a part of Zandvoort many visitors don’t get to see. Quick heads up: part of the beach here is a nude section, which is totally normal. After that, you’ll reach South Beach. You’ll find some great beach bars here where you can also rent sunbeds. If you’re in the mood for a party, check out Paal 69. They regularly host some cool beach parties.
The South Beach area feels more local and untouched. If you keep walking a bit further, you’ll reach Noordvoort (between beach poles 73 and 70), a protected nature zone with wide beaches, sand dunes, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a spot where many birds stop by along the coast, and where seals sometimes come ashore to rest.
Try kitesurfing, surfing or stand-up paddleboarding at North Sea Watersports
If you feel like being more active, Zandvoort is also a great place for watersports. One spot we recommend is North Sea Watersports. They offer everything from kitesurfing to regular surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. You can book a lesson or rent gear if you’ve done it before.
The instructors are friendly and experienced, and they can help you get started even if you’ve never tried it. On windy days, the sky is full of kites, and there’s a great energy on the water.
End your day with dinner at Ohana Beach
To finish the day, walk back towards the main beach area and find a table at Ohana Beach. It’s one of those beach restaurants that feels like a mini getaway. Think wooden interiors, a laid-back crowd, and a varied menu with plenty of fresh fish dishes alongside other options. It’s a good place to wind down after a full day outside.
The perfect day trip from Amsterdam
So whenever you feel like getting out of the city for a bit, or if you’re visiting Amsterdam and have a little extra time, head to the beach at Zandvoort.It’s one of those places that’s super easy to reach, but still feels like a proper break. You’ll find wide, peaceful stretches of beach, great spots to eat and drink, and even some adventure on the water if you feel like it.
For more tips about Zandvoort, check out @visitzandvoort on Instagram or visit their website.
