Proud to be 'Best Beach'
In January 2017, National Geographic published a list of the 21 most perfect beach destinations on the planet. Noordwijk is mentioned as number 13 in this popular list, something of which this seaside resort is truly and enormously proud. The magazine is of the opinion that this is thanks to the fact that Noordwijk is beautifully situated between tulip fields and the cities of Amsterdam and The Hague. National Geographic also refers to the dog-friendly nature of the seaside resort: not all beaches in the world have a separate beach for dogs and special walking trails where you can go walkies with your hairy friend.
What you need to know about dogs at the beach and in the dunes
You are very welcome in Noordwijk with your dog. But there are rules to keep the environment clean and tidy for everyone, especially around the beach. Please be sure to learn the rules.
Rules for dogs in nature reserve area’s
In the wooded area behind the dunes (to the North of Noordwijk) dogs are allowed to be walked unleashed, but under call and on the regular walking paths, in the period between 15th August and 15th March. From 15th March to 15th August, dogs have to be kept on a leash, due to the breeding season of animals and birds in the natural reserve.
In the area to the East of the walking and cycling paths through the “Coepelduynen” (between Noordwijk and Katwijk), and in the central part of the “Coepelduynen” (South of Noordwijk), dogs are prohibited all year round, (this is indicated by signs). In the remaining area dogs are allowed, unleashed, all year round, provided they stay on the designated paths.
All the nature reserves around Noordwijk belonging to “Staatsbosbeheer” require dogs to be leashed between 15th March to 15th August, due to the breeding season of the wildlife.
On the Nieuw Leeuwenhorst Estate dogs are welcome to be walked, but are required to be on a leash.
It's wonderful to walk your dog on the beach. Get a breath of fresh air and let your faithful four-footed friend frolic in the lapping and breaking waves. Fill your lungs with healthy fresh sea air and then come to have something tasty to eat at one of the dog-friendly restaurants of Noordwijk.
Feel like staying a little longer? Many hotels, guest houses, holiday parks and camping sites have special provisions to accommodate you if you want to spend the night here with your dog.
