The Hague, often celebrated for its stately architecture and political importance, holds a delightful secret: a stunning coastline brimming with diverse beach experiences. Whether you're seeking busy promenades, serene sandy stretches, or a unique natural escape, this Dutch city delivers. From the iconic Scheveningen to the peaceful Zuiderstrand and the dynamic Zandmotor, each beach offers its own distinct character.
Ready to dip your toes in the North Sea? Let's explore the top beaches in The Hague, complete with the latest updates for 2026, so you can choose the perfect spot for your next coastal adventure.
Quick Facts: The Hague Beaches
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May-September) for best weather.
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Dutch, English widely spoken
- Electricity: Type F (two-pin, round)
- Getting Around: Trams, buses, cycling, walking.
The Hague's Top Beaches: Your Guide to Coastal Bliss
1. Scheveningen Beach: The Iconic Seaside Resort
Scheveningen is undoubtedly The Hague's most famous and busy seaside destination, drawing millions of visitors each year. It's a place where urban energy meets the expansive North Sea, offering a wide array of activities and entertainment. The beach itself is free to access and stretches for miles, with distinct areas catering to different preferences. You'll find everything from busy piers to trendy beach clubs and dedicated zones for various watersports.
A major highlight for 2026 is the recently completed renovation of the Scheveningen boulevard, which reopened on April 2, 2026. This impressive upgrade has made the boulevard wider, greener, and significantly improved connections to the sand, including a grand 30-meter-wide staircase near the Kurhaus. Beach pavilions have also been thoughtfully repositioned, now offering even better sea views. The iconic Scheveningen Pier remains a central attraction, open daily with free entry. Here, you can stroll along the Food Boulevard, browse shops, or take a ride on the SkyView Ferris Wheel for panoramic vistas. For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping and a zipline are also available on the Pier. Keep an eye out for future developments, as plans for a new Pier renovation are on the horizon, potentially starting in 2026 to introduce more amenities like hotel rooms and a spa.
With over 50 beach clubs, Scheveningen truly comes alive from March to October. You can find everything from sophisticated dining to busy party spots. New hotspots like EVE, opened in June 2025, offer a futuristic setting with South American and Asian flavors and weekend DJs. Other popular choices include Xiringuito for its relaxed vibe, Beach Club WIJ near the harbor for sunset views, and Beachclub Indigo at Zwarte Pad, known for its Mediterranean decor and busy festivals.
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2. Zuiderstrand & Kijkduin: The Quieter Coastal Escape
If you're seeking a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere away from the crowds of Scheveningen, then Zuiderstrand and the adjacent Kijkduin Beach are your perfect retreats. Often referred to by locals as the "Quiet Beach," Zuiderstrand offers wide, clean sandy shores backed by extensive dunes, making it ideal for unwinding, long walks, and enjoying nature. It boasts a solid 4 out of 5 rating from visitors, who appreciate its peaceful vibe.
Kijkduin complements Zuiderstrand with a similar tranquil ambiance, specifically catering to families. The "Nieuw Kijkduin" redevelopment project has significantly enhanced public spaces, with Phase 2 largely completed by the end of 2023. This includes new bicycle parking, a pleasant kiosk in the dunes, and the return of the beloved play boat for children. An underground car park also improves accessibility. These beaches are less commercialized, offering an authentic Dutch coastal experience where the focus is on natural beauty and tranquility.
Both Zuiderstrand and Kijkduin host numerous authentic beach bars and restaurants, typically open from March to October. These establishments often have a more laid-back feel than their Scheveningen counterparts. Notable options at Kijkduin include Beach Club Dunes, which offers dinner shows and a highly-rated dining experience, alongside popular spots like Beachclub Birds, LaParade, and Habana Beach. Zuiderstrand's beach pavilions are known for hosting cultural activities like concerts and beach parties during summer. These beaches are also fantastic for water sports, with designated zones for wave surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. You can even join a yoga session near Beach Pavilion South on summer mornings.
3. Zandmotor: A Dynamic Natural Wonder
For a truly unique coastal experience that blends nature, innovation, and adventure, head to De Zandmotor. This isn't your typical beach; it's a monumental pilot project designed to naturally protect the coastline by using sand. Created in 2011, this artificial peninsula is constantly evolving, with wind and waves distributing its sand to widen beaches and build new dunes over decades. It's an ever-changing landscape rated highly by visitors, holding an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars from its reviews.
The Zandmotor is a paradise for those who appreciate raw, untamed nature and active pursuits. Due to consistent winds, it's a prime spot for kitesurfing, attracting enthusiasts from all over. The dynamic tidal area also makes it excellent for beachcombing, fossil hunting, and long, invigorating nature walks. You can explore the newly forming dunes, observe diverse birdlife, and witness the power of natural coastal processes firsthand. Facilities here are intentionally limited, preserving its wild character, so come prepared with your own refreshments and essentials.
This natural area is open 24 hours a day, offering a sense of boundless freedom. It's a stark contrast to the busy promenades, inviting you to connect with the elements. Remember to check local weather and tide tables before your visit, as the landscape can be soft or wet, especially after high tide. Parking is available at nearby Kijkduin or Ter Heijde, and public transport can get you close to this remarkable natural phenomenon.
Planning a wider trip? See our complete guide to The Netherlands' Cultural Evolution: Exploring Art, History & Innovation.
Practical Tips for Your The Hague Beach Visit
Planning your trip to The Hague's beaches? Here are some essential tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Getting There and Around
The Hague city center is well-connected to its beaches. Trams (lines 1 and 11 to Scheveningen, line 3 to Kijkduin) and buses offer convenient and frequent service. If you're staying in the city, cycling is a fantastic option, with well-maintained bike paths leading directly to the coast. Parking at Scheveningen can be expensive and fills up quickly during peak season, so public transport is often the smartest choice. For Zandmotor, parking is available in Kijkduin or Ter Heijde.
Best Time to Visit
The beach season in The Hague generally runs from late spring (May) to early autumn (September). During these months, temperatures are pleasant, and beach clubs are fully operational. July and August are the warmest and busiest, with lifeguards on duty daily from 10:00 to 18:00. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures for walking or watersports, late May, June, or September are ideal.
What to Wear and Bring
Pack layers, as coastal weather can change quickly. Even on a sunny day, a light jacket or sweater is a good idea. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. For watersports, bring appropriate gear. If you plan to spend the day, pack snacks and water, especially for Zandmotor where facilities are limited. A beach towel and a good book are always welcome companions.
Beach Etiquette and Regulations
Be aware of local regulations. An alcohol ban is in effect on the Scheveningen Strandweg, Boulevard, Zeekant, and Rederserf from April 1 to October 1. Barbecuing is generally allowed on the Northern beach of Scheveningen but always check for specific prohibited areas. Dogs are welcome on certain parts of Zuiderstrand at specific times; check signs at beach entrances. Free wristbands for children, where parents can write contact information, are available at lifeguard posts in case a child gets lost, particularly useful at busy Scheveningen.
Accessibility
The renovated Scheveningen boulevard has improved access to the beach with wider ramps and staircases. Many beach clubs offer wooden walkways. But sand can still be a challenge for those with mobility issues
. Yet, many beach clubs offer wooden walkways and accessible facilities, and the new boulevard at Scheveningen features improved ramps, making it easier to enjoy the seaside.
Beyond the Sand: Activities and Attractions
The Hague's beaches offer far more than just sunbathing. Each stretch of coastline presents a unique set of activities and attractions, ensuring there's something for every traveler.
Scheveningen: Entertainment Central
At Scheveningen, the action never stops. The iconic Scheveningen Pier is a destination in itself, inviting you to stroll its length, enjoy snacks from the Food Boulevard, or take in the views from the SkyView Ferris Wheel. For the adventurous, imagine bungee jumping over the North Sea or zipping across the waves on a zipline – both available right on the Pier. Beyond the pier, the newly renovated boulevard is perfect for a leisurely walk, connecting you to various shops, restaurants, and the famous Kurhaus.
The beach clubs are a major draw, especially from spring to autumn. Whether you're looking for a chic spot to enjoy refined South American and Asian flavors at EVE, a relaxed atmosphere with good food at Xiringuito, or a busy party scene with DJs at Beachclub Indigo (known for its "Indiburn" festivals), Scheveningen has a club to match your mood. Many clubs host live music, cultural events, and themed parties throughout the summer, making it a dynamic place to be after dark. Don't forget the numerous watersports schools offering lessons in surfing, paddleboarding, and more.
Zuiderstrand & Kijkduin: Nature and Relaxation
For those seeking a more tranquil and active experience, Zuiderstrand and Kijkduin are ideal. These beaches are renowned for their wide-open spaces, making them perfect for long walks or invigorating runs along the shoreline. The extensive dune landscapes behind the beaches are fantastic for hiking and birdwatching, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.
Kijkduin, in particular, is very family-oriented. Kids will love the updated play boat and the wide, safe beaches for building sandcastles. The beach clubs here, like Beach Club Dunes and LaParade, offer a relaxed dining experience with stunning sea views, often catering to families with dedicated menus. Zuiderstrand is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Designated areas welcome wave surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, making it a favorite among locals. You can even join a morning yoga session on the beach near Beach Pavilion South, a perfect way to start your day with mindfulness and fresh sea air.
The Pier, Scheveningen
Iconic landmark with Ferris wheel, food, and thrills.
Dune Walks, Kijkduin
Explore natural beauty and enjoy peaceful hikes.
Watersports, Zuiderstrand
Surf, kite, or windsurf in designated zones.
Beach Clubs, Scheveningen
Dine, dance, and relax at over 50 unique spots.
Zandmotor: Adventure in a Dynamic Landscape
The Zandmotor is an adventure for those who appreciate raw, evolving nature. Its unique formation makes it a prime location for kitesurfing, with consistent winds providing excellent conditions. This natural wonder is also a fantastic spot for beachcombing; keep an eye out for unique shells, fossils, and other treasures washed ashore by the tides. The ever-changing landscape means each visit can offer a new discovery.
It's also an excellent place for nature photography, with dramatic skies and a sense of wildness that contrasts sharply with the more developed beaches. Due to its dynamic nature and limited facilities, the Zandmotor encourages a more self-reliant visit, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural coastal environment. It's a place to feel the power of the North Sea and witness the innovative ways the Netherlands protects its coastline.
The Hague's beaches truly offer a spectrum of experiences, from the buzzing energy of Scheveningen to the serene dunes of Zuiderstrand and the natural wonder of the Zandmotor. With recent renovations and ongoing developments, 2026 is an excellent time to see these coastal charms. Whether you're looking for thrilling watersports, relaxing walks, delicious beachside dining, or simply a spot to soak up the sun, The Hague's diverse coastline has your perfect escape waiting.
FAQ
Are The Hague's beaches free to access?
Yes, all the main beaches in The Hague, including Scheveningen, Kijkduin, Zuiderstrand, and Zandmotor, are free to access. You only pay for parking, specific attractions like the Ferris wheel, or services at beach clubs.
When is the best time to visit The Hague's beaches?
The ideal time to visit is from late May to early September. During these months, the weather is generally warm and sunny, all beach clubs are open, and lifeguards are on duty, especially in July and August.
Is swimming safe at The Hague's beaches?
Yes, swimming is generally safe, especially during the summer months when lifeguards are present. Always pay attention to warning flags. Red flags indicate dangerous conditions (strong currents, high waves), and swimming is prohibited.
Can I bring my dog to the beaches in The Hague?
Dog policies vary by beach and season. Generally, during the peak summer season (May 15 - September 15), dogs are restricted to specific areas or allowed only during early morning or late evening hours. Outside of this period, dogs are often allowed all day. Always check local signage at beach entrances for the most current rules. For example, at Zuiderstrand, dogs are welcome all day at beach entrances 2 and 9, and at night (9 PM - 7 AM) elsewhere.
What is the Zandmotor, and why should I visit it?
The Zandmotor is a unique, artificial peninsula created to naturally protect the coastline. It's a dynamic, evolving landscape perfect for nature lovers, kitesurfers, and those seeking a wilder, less developed beach experience. It's great for long walks, beachcombing, and observing coastal processes.
Are there accessible options for visitors with mobility challenges?
The renovated Scheveningen boulevard features wider paths and improved ramps for easier access to the beach. Many beach clubs also provide wooden walkways onto the sand. While the sandy terrain can still be a challenge, efforts are being made to enhance accessibility.