There have always been notable differences between coastal Noordwijk aan Zee and inland Noordwijk-Binnen. In days gone by this was due to religious and occupational differences, which were easily maintained due to the geographical differences.

Noordwijk aan Zee inhabitants were by origin fishermen, with a Protestant-Christian background. The primary occupation within Noordwijk-Binnen was bulb cultivation, with Roman-Catholicism being the predominant faith. During the 80 years war (1568-1648) some of the 'Geuzen' (protestant rebels) were from Protestant Noordwijk aan Zee. This area was suffered under the Spaniards, whilst Catholic Noordwijk Binnen was spared.

This discrimination continued, and not just in a religious sense. Whilst the coastal dwelling 'Zeeër' (seafarers) fished for a living, the inland 'Binder', cultivated herbs and later bulbs. Until the start of the twentieth century Noordwijk had a small fleet of barges at its disposal, which departed from the beach as there was no harbour. In the nineteenth century Noordwijk developed into a seaside resort. To this day the notion of being either a 'Zeeër' or 'Binder' continues, especially among the older generation.