The Netherlands boasts a stunning 250-kilometer-long coastline, offering a unique experience with clean and safe beaches surrounded by beautiful dunes showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna. Each beach possesses its distinct charm, making them popular destinations throughout the year, not only for the Dutch but also for numerous visitors from neighboring countries.
One well-kept secret that many tourists overlook is IJmuiden, which boasts one of the country’s most beautiful and expansive beaches. The primary beach, known as IJmuiderstrand, is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the Felison Cruise Terminal. If you arrive in IJmuiden via cruise ship, this beach is the perfect spot to enjoy on a warm summer day!
IJmuiderstrand is one the widest beaches in the Netherlands, known for its cleanliness, child-friendliness, and above all, safety. The water quality is excellent, making it ideal for swimming and various water sports. During the summer, professional lifeguards, all volunteers from the renowned Dutch Reddingsbrigade, ensure your safety both on the beach and in the water.
Lining the beach, you’ll discover numerous charming beachside restaurants where you can savor delicious food and drinks. Many of these pavilions are open year-round and provide a cozy retreat even on colder days outside the peak season. During the summer months, you can rent windbreakers and sunbeds on the beach. Additionally, you’ll come across quaint trailers, pulled by vintage agricultural tractors, offering fried fish, seafood, ice cream, and refreshing drinks.
One of the unique aspects of IJmuiden’s beaches is that they remain a hidden gem, even on the warmest and sunniest summer days. You’ll appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the fact that dogs are not allowed, ensuring a peaceful environment. This contrasts greatly with the more famous neighboring, overcrowded beaches of Bloemendaal aan Zee and Zandvoort.
Adjacent to IJmuiden’s beach, you’ll also find the south pier, extending an impressive 2.5 kilometers into the sea. It’s an excellent place for a scenic stroll and is known for its diverse birdlife. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a seal or, perhaps, a porpoise!
 | If you are a bit more adventurous and want to be nicely bronzed without annoying tan lines, you can also continue to the large and tranquil nudist beach of IJmuiden, known for its relaxed atmosphere. There are no facilities on this part of the beach so you have to bring your own food and drinks. However, you can leave your swimwear at home (or at the ship you’re traveling on). |