7 Beaches for a Day Trip from Amsterdam

The Netherlands is home to miles of sandy beaches along the North Sea coast, ranging from lively seaside towns to quiet, nature-filled escapes. Many are easily reached by car, but several can also be accessed conveniently by train or bus—perfect if you arrived in Amsterdam without a car. Every beach on this list offers the classic North Sea experience: fresh sea air, dunes, and endless shoreline.

Zandvoort is the classic Dutch seaside town, famous for its broad sandy beach, lively beach clubs, and scenic dunes. A hub for surfing and kiteboarding, it’s ideal for a quick coastal getaway by train or car.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/-55 min
Car: +/-45 min

Trendy and energetic, Bloemendaal draws a young, social crowd. Stylish beach clubs, vibrant nightlife, and sun-soaked dunes create the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and evening entertainment.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/- 1h 15 min
Car: +/- 35 min

Castricum is perfect if you prefer calm and nature. Surrounded by dunes and protected landscapes, it’s ideal for long walks, cycling, and peaceful moments by the sea. Less crowded than its southern neighbors, it’s a serene escape from the city.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/- 45 min + 15 min biking from Uitgeest station
Car: +/- 40 min

IJmuiden offers a rugged, wide-open beach experience. Popular with surfers and nature enthusiasts, the coastline features dramatic views of passing ships and the nearby harbor. It’s raw and less touristy than many other beaches.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/- 1h 25 min
Car: +/- 40 min

Katwijk is a family-friendly beach town with a long sandy shoreline and a cozy, village-like vibe. Its bustling boulevard has casual cafés and seaside dining, while calm waters make it ideal for children and relaxed day trips.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/- 1h 20 min
Car: +/- 40 min

Bergen is a peaceful coastal village with wide beaches and scenic dunes. Perfect for quiet walks, cycling, and nature lovers, the town offers a more intimate seaside experience and a slower pace than the more crowded beaches.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/- 1h 50 min
Car: +/- 1 hour

Noordwijk combines lively seaside activity with plenty of space to relax. Its long beach, dunes, and bustling boulevard cater to sunbathers, families, and watersports enthusiasts alike, balancing activity with natural coastal beauty.

Travel time from CASA:
Public transport: +/- 1h 15 min
Car: +/- 40 min

If you don’t feel like traveling far, Amsterdam has plenty of spots to beat the heat. From city beaches to lakes, there are options for swimming, sunbathing, or just cooling down on a hot day. CASA has listed 10 great spots where you can enjoy water and sun without leaving the city.