Summer in Noordwijk

Noordwijk is waiting to be discovered by you this summer. With 13 kilometres of award-winning sandy beach, vast dunes and a central location near Leiden, Haarlem and Amsterdam, Noordwijk is the place to be for anyone looking to combine relaxation with style and activity.

Whether you come for the serene tranquillity of nature or the vibrant energy of the beach clubs, in Noordwijk, Noordwijkerhout and De Zilk you will find exactly what you are looking for this summer.

Discover the 10 best summer tips for 2026.

#1. Every day a different beach

With 13 kilometres of coastline, you can experience a different atmosphere every day.
Around Koningin Wilhelmina Boulevard, you will find the well-known beach clubs with international allure. Perfect for a luxurious lunch with your feet in the sand.

Koningin Astrid Boulevard, on the other hand, is the place to be for a sundowner cocktail as the sun slowly sinks into the sea.

Looking for peace and quiet? Cycle through the dunes to Duindamseslag. This is a true family beach without direct development, perfect for a traditional picnic.

At the far north lies Langevelderslag, bordering the Noordvoort beach reserve. Here, you can experience a silence that is unique to the Dutch coast.

Local tip: For surfers, beach access 21 is the place to be. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at Beach Break and learn to surf or kitesurf at Lex Surfschool.

Discover the beaches of Noordwijk

#2. Culinary enjoyment outdoors

From refined dishes with views of the surf to welcoming terraces in the village centres: the choice is endless.

Enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere at the restaurants by Oosterduinse Meer. Or visit the inviting terraces around the Witte Kerk in Noordwijkerhout or the hidden courtyards in historic Noordwijk Binnen.

Tip: Can’t decide? Then cycle the charming terrace route. It takes you past some of the best terraces while you fully enjoy the surroundings.

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#3. A summer full of culture & events

Noordwijk is buzzing with cultural highlights. The events calendar is filled with live music, theatre at special locations and art exhibitions.

Visit the weekly open-air cultural performances, enjoy a festival or explore the museums.

Tip: Take one of the cultural audio walks. Through your smartphone, Noordwijk’s past is brought to life as you walk past historic locations.

Discover culture in Noordwijk

#4. Discover the summer markets

No summer holiday is complete without a visit to the market.
Find a unique outfit at the popular Ibiza Market or enjoy the weekly tourist markets in Noordwijk aan Zee and the atmospheric street markets in Noordwijkerhout.

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#5. Wellness & Me-Time

Noordwijk is officially recognised as a Healing Seaside Resort. This means that the sea air and water here have been shown to contribute to your health.

Book a sunrise yoga session on the beach or plan a wellness day at one of our wonderful spas.

Tip: Walk the Healthy Noordwijk route and experience the restorative benefits of Noordwijk, from the herbs on the land to the healing power of the sea.

More Body & Mind activities

#6. Kids & adventure

For the youngest visitors, Noordwijk is one big playground.

  • Visit the Atlantikwall Museum for an exciting tour through the bunkers in the dunes.
  • Go to Space Expo and discover Noordwijk in space.
  • Build giant sandcastles during the annual sand sculpture competitions.
  • Take a SUP, surf or kitesurfing lesson and experience Noordwijk like a local.
View all events in Noordwijk

#7. The most beautiful view of the region

See the coastline from above!

On Saturdays: Climb the tower of the Oude Jeroenskerk.
On Sundays: Visit the iconic lighthouse.
Every day of the week until September 2026: Take a ride on the large Ferris wheel at Palaceplein and enjoy a magical panoramic view over the entire region.

#8. Endless open spaces in Hollandse Duinen National Park

Did you know that Noordwijk is located right in the heart of Hollandse Duinen National Park? This unique area along the North Sea, between the beach and the hinterland, is where estates, dunes, flower fields, peat meadows, villages and towns alternate. It is home to exceptionally rich flora and fauna.

Tip: The Hollandse Duinen National Park cycling route shows you the full diversity of this unique area. You cycle through dunes, villages and country estates between Noordwijk and Scheveningen.

Download route

#9. Being active outside

Sitting still is not an option with so many possibilities:

On the water: SUP, surfing, kitesurfing or sailing.

On land: mountain biking through the woods, horse riding on the beach, yoga or a challenging round of golf at Tespelduyn.

Tip: End your active day with a sports massage at one of the many wellness hotels nearby. You’ve earned it!

Find your activities

#10. Staying overnight on the coast

Wake up to the sound of the waves. Whether you choose a luxury five-star hotel with sea views, a stylish boutique B&B or a welcoming family campsite right behind the dunes, your stay in Noordwijk is guaranteed to recharge your batteries.

Tip: Stay at a campsite or holiday park just behind the dunes during the summer. You can walk straight into nature and be on one of the quiet beaches within 15 minutes.

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