This seaside town on the Dutch North Sea coast has white sandy beaches and a calm atmosphere. The local marina, beach houses, and 13th-century church draw summer visitors.
Cadzand, the southernmost seaside resort in the Netherlands, lies along the North Sea coast in Zeeland province. You can search for million-year-old shark teeth on its wide sandy beaches, climb the 1885 Nooitgedacht windmill, or walk through the salt marshes of Het Zwin nature reserve where purple sea lavender blooms in summer. The 14th-century Gothic St. Mary's Church rises from the center of the original medieval village layout, while modern spa resorts line the beachfront of Cadzand-Bad.
Finding Ancient Treasures on Cadzand Beach
Walk the 11-kilometer beach at Cadzand-Bad during low tide to search for prehistoric shark teeth. Bring a bucket and sieve, and head to the most productive areas near the radar tower in Nieuwvliet or the Zwingeul area. The beach welcomes families with space for sandcastle building, and you can try windsurfing or sailing at the water sports center.
Exploring Het Zwin Nature Reserve
At Het Zwin nature reserve, salt and fresh water create distinct mudflats and salt marshes. Watch spoonbills wade through shallow pools or spot avocets nesting in spring. Walk the marked trails independently or join daily guided walks (April-September) to learn about the reserve's plants like sea lavender and glasswort.
Walking Through Medieval Cadzand-Village
The inland Cadzand-Village maintains its circular medieval street pattern. The 14th-century Gothic St. Mary's Church sits at its heart, with its distinctive tower visible across the countryside. Near the church, you'll find the World Peace Flame in its black marble column. Visit the Nooitgedacht corn mill on Sunday afternoons to see the traditional milling process and buy freshly ground flour.
Cycling Through Zeeland's Countryside
Create your own cycling route using the numbered junction point system. The coastal path runs 16 kilometers from Cadzand to Breskens, taking you past sand dunes and beach pavilions. Several bike rental shops in town provide maps of the junction network.
Wellness and Relaxation in Cadzand-Bad
The seawater and climate in Cadzand-Bad support several spa hotels with wellness treatments. The area receives more sunshine than other Dutch coastal towns during summer, making it ideal for beach walks and outdoor swimming.
Markets and Local Life
Visit the evening markets in July and August to buy regional products, including flour from the Nooitgedacht mill. Walk along the harbor's 'Walk of Freedom' to read the names of Four Freedoms Award recipients engraved in the ground and walls.
