Zandvoort

Zandvoort, a coastal town in the Netherlands, is known for its 9-kilometer sandy beach and Circuit Zandvoort, which hosts the Dutch Grand Prix. Located just 30 minutes from Amsterdam, this seaside resort is popular for its beach activities, coastal dunes, and water sports. With a history dating back to 1100 and numerous dining options along the shore, Zandvoort draws visitors interested in both relaxation and motorsports.

Zandvoort's Beach: A 9-Kilometer Stretch of Sand

Zandvoort's main draw is its 9-kilometer-long beach, which sees over 4 million visitors annually. The wide, sandy shoreline has plenty of space for sunbathing, walking, and sandcastle building. In summer, you'll find 37 pavilions along the beach, serving everything from quick snacks to full meals. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for comfort. Even in cooler months, many people come here for walks and to enjoy the sea air.

Circuit Zandvoort: Home of the Dutch Grand Prix

Circuit Zandvoort, the town's racing track, has hosted the Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix since 2021. Set among the dunes, the circuit challenges drivers and gives spectators clear views of the action. Throughout the year, you can watch various motorsport events here, from touring car races to historic grand prix weekends. The circuit also offers tours and driving experiences. During major events like the Dutch Grand Prix, Zandvoort becomes busy with racing fans from around the world.

Exploring the Coastal Dunes

The area around Zandvoort includes extensive coastal dunes, part of the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. These dunes protect the land from the sea and are home to many plant and animal species. You can walk or cycle through the dunes on the network of trails. You might see deer, rabbits, and various birds. The dunes also contain the Amsterdam Water Supply, a system of channels that filter rainwater for Amsterdam's drinking water.

Getting to Zandvoort

You can easily reach Zandvoort by public transport, making it a good day trip from Amsterdam or Haarlem. Trains run directly from Amsterdam Central Station to Zandvoort aan Zee station in about 30 minutes. During busy times, there are up to four trains per hour. From the station, you can walk to the beach in about 5 minutes. If you drive, you'll find several parking areas near the beach, but these fill up quickly on sunny days. Many people also cycle to Zandvoort, using bike paths that connect to nearby towns and through the dune areas.

Water Sports and Beach Activities

Zandvoort's beach is good for active pursuits. The windy conditions make it ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing, and you can find schools offering lessons and equipment rental. On calmer days, many people enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). You can also play beach volleyball or football on the sand. Some sections of the beach allow horseback riding, which is particularly popular in the evening when the beach is less crowded.

Dining and Beach Clubs

Zandvoort's food scene centers around its beach clubs and pavilions. These range from casual spots serving local favorites like herring and kibbeling (battered fish pieces) to restaurants offering international cuisine. In the evening, especially during summer weekends, many beach clubs turn into bars and music venues. In town, you'll find additional restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops. Local Dutch specialties include poffertjes (mini pancakes) and stroopwafel (syrup waffle).

Seasonal Events in Zandvoort

While summer is the busiest season, Zandvoort has events year-round. In August, the Zandvoort Culinair food festival showcases local and international cuisine. On New Year's Day, thousands of people participate in the Nieuwjaarsduik, a traditional swim in the cold North Sea. In March, the Circuit Run allows runners to experience the famous race track on foot. The local event calendar lists concerts, markets, and other seasonal activities you might enjoy during your visit.