While its picturesque towns and vibrant festivals often steal the spotlight, Friesland's beaches and the coast of Friesland are a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Stretching along the shores of the IJsselmeer, the Wadden Sea, and the Frisian Lakes, these beaches offer a serene escape for those seeking natural beauty and relaxation. After learning about the most beautiful beaches in The Netherlands and the best beaches to visit in Zeeland, let’s embark on a journey to uncover the most beautiful beaches Friesland has to offer.
Friesland’s beaches are characterized by their pristine sands, gentle waves, and scenic backdrops. Unlike other bustling seaside resorts, these beautiful family beaches provide a peaceful retreat where visitors can unwind, explore, and connect with nature. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a water sports enthusiast, or a family looking for a perfect day out, any beach in Friesland has something for everyone.
Top Friesland beaches to visit
The beaches in Friesland offer a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility, perfect for relaxation and adventure. From the pristine shores of the IJsselmeer and the Wadden Sea beaches to the serene lakeside beaches in Lauwersmeer National Park, and the De Koog (Texel) and Makkum beaches, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and kite surfing. With their clear waters, sandy shores, and surrounding natural reserves, Friesland's beaches provide an idyllic escape for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Book your dream holiday home in Friesland.
Stavoren Beach
Location: 52.87984241733142, 5.360415142366655
Highlights:
- Surrounded by the IJsselmeer on three sides
- Two beaches located by the dike
- The perfect destination for a trip across the IJsselmeer
- Ideal for relaxing on the beach or taking a refreshing swim in clear waters
- Within walking distance of the harbor
- The gentle, sloping bottom of the water makes it ideal for inexperienced swimmers and children
Parking at Stavoren Beach: You can reach this location with any type of vehicle and park just 30 meters from the beach.
Stavoren, nestled along three points of the IJsselmeer, boasts two beaches by the dike, making it a delightful destination for any IJsselmeer journey. This charming city offers a wealth of sights and activities. On sunny days, you can relax on the beach or take a refreshing dip in the clear waters.
The beach is easily accessible by walking along the dike and it's within walking distance from the harbor. Stavoren’s marina adds to the charm, and the nearby town is perfect for exploring quaint shops and enjoying local seafood delicacies. Grazing sheep help maintain the grass on the dike and beaches while the water is clear, and the gently sloping bottom makes it perfect for novice swimmers and families. However, it is important to know, that there are no additional facilities available on the beach, so it is not considered to be a very high-end spot.
Beach amenities:
- No special facilities on the beach
Workum Beach
Location: 52.96841155223224, 5.41381176476143
Highlights:
- Located on the shores of the IJsselmeer
- Shallow waters ideal for children and beginner swimmers
- A popular spot for kite surfing
- Bustling and vibrant during the summer months
- One of the beast beaches on the coast of Friesland
Parking at Workum beach: this beach offers free parking at the entrance, though spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for convenient access to the beach.
Workum, or Warkum as it is called in Friesland, is one of the renowned Frisian cities that has enjoyed city rights since 1399. Situated on the shores of the former Zuiderzee and bordering the Frisian lakes, Workum was a key merchant city for the region. Simply strolling around the old city center is a treat in itself. Along the way, you'll encounter many stepped gables, saddle roofs, and the St. Gertrude church.
Additionally, the beach is located on the IJsselmeer, and it is perfect for children due to its shallow waters, making Workum a bustling place in the summer. Workum Beach is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The steady winds and open waters make it a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The beach is wide and sandy, offering plenty of space for beach games and relaxation. After a day of fun in the sun, visitors can explore the charming town of Workum, known for its traditional Frisian architecture and art galleries.
Beach amenities:
- Barbecue possibility
- Dogs allowed
- Restaurants
- Car access
- Foot access
- Street parking
Harlingen Beach
Location: 53.1678376469396, 5.416714417249685
Highlights:
- Conveniently located near the historic city center
- Directly connected to the Westerzeedijk and the Wadden Sea
- Ideal spot for fresh air, sunbathing, and swimming in salty water
- Features a 200-meter-long floating pier for walking over the sea and diving into the water
- Dog-friendly beach with leash requirements from May to August, and off-leash freedom from September to April
Parking at Harlingen beach: parking is free at the large lot on the Westerzeedijk, but there are additional parking options on Harlingerstraatweg, at Westerzeedijk 7 for Bruine Vloot members, and along the Waddenpromenade.
Harlingen, a vibrant port city, features a small but delightful beach area near the harbor. This beach offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments, with the bustling harbor providing a dynamic backdrop to the serene sandy shores. Harlingen Beach is perfect for those who enjoy watching ships sail by while lounging on the sand. The city itself is full of history and offers numerous dining and shopping options.
The beach of Harlingen is conveniently located just a short walk from the historic city center. It is directly connected to the Westerzeedijk and the Wadden Sea, one of many natural World Heritage Sites. Due to the ebb and flow of the tides, the size of the beach changes frequently. Regardless of the season, Harlingen beach is a beautiful spot to enjoy the fresh air, relax in the sun, or take a dip in the salty water. Open year-round, it offers a perfect place to unwind during any season, with the ever-changing view of the Wadden coast providing constant interest.
You can embrace the special atmosphere of the Wadden Sea World Heritage site by taking a walk in the sea and feeling the effects of the tides firsthand. Additionally, a floating pier, or pontoon, extends 200 meters in length and 3 meters in width from the beach, allowing you to walk over the sea and dive into the fresh water at its end.
If you would like to bring dog along with you, four legged visitors are welcome on the beach. However, from May to August, dogs must be kept on a leash while from September to April, they can roam around freely and enjoy the sand.
Beach amenities:
- Easy access
- Free entrance
- Kite and windsurfing
- Safe swimming
- Restaurants
Top Beaches to Visit in the Wadden Islands
The beaches of the Wadden Islands are as diverse as they are beautiful. From the expansive, white-sand stretches to intimate coves and tidal flats, there's a landscape to suit every beachgoer's desire. The shifting sands and changing tides create a dynamic environment where the scenery is never quite the same, offering new vistas with each visit.
The Wadden Sea and its islands are a critical habitat for a vast array of wildlife. Bird watchers will be delighted by the sight of countless species, from elegant spoonbills to playful oystercatchers, making these beaches a true paradise for ornithologists. The intertidal zones are teeming with life, providing vital feeding grounds for birds and a fascinating glimpse into marine biodiversity for visitors. Seals are also a common sight, often spotted lounging on sandbanks or frolicking in the surf.
Stay close to the beach and book a holiday home in the Wadden Islands.
Most beautiful beaches in Texel
Location: 53.08039928437439, 4.801640713249768
Highlights:
- Texel is the largest and most famous Wadden Island in the Netherlands
- Diverse landscapes including sandy beaches, dunes, and charming villages
- Over 25 km of sandy beaches along the west coast
- Texel offers eight protected beach areas ideal for sunbathing and water sports
- Abundant cycling and hiking trails through scenic landscapes
Parking on Texel Island: You can purchase a Texel Vignette for hassle-free parking. This digital parking pass can be easily bought online via smartphone, tablet, or computer. Texel requires paid parking in all villages and at the beaches.
Texel is the largest and most renowned of the Dutch Wadden Islands. Alongside its stunning landscapes and charming villages, Texel boasts an extensive 25 km sandy beach on the west coast, perfect for beach holidays. Sun and beach lovers can visit one of the eight protected beach areas for a delightful experience. Texel's beaches cater to everyone, from lively spots with various activities to serene, secluded areas for nature lovers. Texel's beaches are marked by pole numbers, making it easy to navigate and find your favorite spot!
During the summer, many beaches on Texel are patrolled by lifeguards who ensure safe swimming within designated zones. Pay attention to the lifeguard flags and review safety guidelines before entering the water. Single-line kite flying is permitted across the entire beach. For multiple-line kite flying, kite surfing, or sand yachting, you can head to the designated sporty beach areas marked at beach poles 9.77, 17.6, 18.99, 21.91, 27, 28.2, 32, and 33.02.
Kitesurfing on the Wadden Sea beach is restricted to 'Dijkmanshuizen'. At the sporty beaches, you can also kayak or canoe independently, ensuring that you avoid proximity to swimmers and others and stay within the marked areas.
Onrust, Den Hoorn
Location: 52.991271454816264, 4.727782450540101
Located on the southwest side near Den Hoorn, this family-friendly beach features a spacious sandy area and calm, shallow waters. A cozy year-round beach pavilion offers meals and drinks with a beautiful North Sea view.
Jan Ayeslag
Location: 53.0458587331153, 4.7377513112832705
South of Den Burg, this tranquil beach has no pavilions, making it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. Surrounded by dunes, it's ideal for long, serene walks.
Westerslag
Location: 53.05655058179226, 4.732357366351665
Situated in the middle of Texel's west coast, this beach is bordered by a pine forest, creating a unique landscape. A beach pavilion offers relaxation and scenic views. The cycling route from Den Burg to this beach passes through forest and dunes.
De Cocksdorp
Location: 53.182525860533254, 4.858545774848235
Near the northern tip of the island and close to the Texel lighthouse, this beach is less crowded and offers stunning views of the lighthouse and surrounding dunes. It's a great spot for picnics and long walks.
De Slufter
Location: 53.13892573307183, 4.8054991067125306
Part of a unique nature reserve where the sea flows into the mainland, this beach offers a rare opportunity to explore Texel's natural flora and fauna, especially during high tide.
Vlieland beach
Location: 53.307470784447645, 5.066536641852005
Highlights:
- Scenic dunes, diverse flora, and fauna, including seals and bird species
- Historic villages, lighthouses, and maritime history
- One of the best spots for swimming in Friesland
- Lifeguards patrol many beaches during summer, ensuring safe swimming areas marked by flags
- Nearby cafes, terraces, and restaurants cater to refreshment needs with drinks, snacks, and meals, enhancing the beach experience
Parking on Vlieland: Vlieland is nearly car-free, so it's best to leave your vehicle on the mainland, or even better, take public transport up to the ferry. You can park your car in front of the ferry terminal or in the 'Tsjerk Hiddes' parking garage, which is about a 10-minute walk from the terminal.
Vlieland, nestled in the Wadden Sea, is the smallest inhabited Dutch Wadden Island, yet it offers an enchanting beach experience that captures the essence of natural beauty and tranquility. With nearly 17 kilometers of pristine sandy beaches lining its northern coast, Vlieland beckons visitors to relax, explore, and enjoy.
This car-free island is a haven of peace and quiet. Its beaches are less crowded, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude. The expansive Vliehors, also known as the Sahara of the North, is particularly stunning.
Vlieland's beaches not only provide opportunities for sunbathing and swimming but also serve as havens for diverse wildlife. From birdwatching among the dunes to spotting seals along the coastline, nature enthusiasts will find endless fascination.
Badhuys Strand
Location: 53.3042826407373, 5.050217711711305
The most popular beach on the northern side, easily accessed via Badweg. Ideal for families with its spacious bathing area, lifeguard patrol in summer, and nearby beach pavilion Het Badhuys offering scenic views of the North Sea.
Oost Strand (Stortemelk)
Location: 52.53843512398895, 5.76405236366303
A rugged, less crowded stretch accessible from Kampweg, favored by nature enthusiasts near Camping Stortemelk. Caution is advised for strong sea currents between Vlieland and Terschelling.
Havenstrand
Location: 52.4575491261879, 5.099017813205848
Located on the southern side near the harbor, Havenstrand offers calm waters and soft sanda, perfect for a relaxing day near the village with amenities and a playground nearby.
Vliehors
Location: 52.31620568493401, 4.643132794450968
Known as the 'Sahara of the North' on the western side, this vast sand plain offers spectacular views and is best explored via Vliehors Expres due to military restrictions.
Posthuys Beach
Location: 53.26913189275294, 4.976302270989383
A serene oasis southwest of Vlieland, reached by a scenic bike ride through dunes and natural beauty to an almost deserted stretch perfect for peaceful relaxation.
Most beautiful beaches in Ameland
Location: 53.45010183104754, 5.790677179357493
Highlights:
- Activities available in all seasons, from long walks and shell hunting to kite flying and horseback riding
- Showers, toilets, beach wheelchairs, and rental services for beach chairs and available at Nes pavilion
- Lifeguards from KNRM patrol the main beaches (Hollum, Ballum, Nes, and Buren) during summer, ensuring beachgoer safety
- Dynamic beach and dune environment shaped by tides and winds, perfect for kite flying and kite surfing
- Ameland boasts an impressive 27 kilometers of sandy beach, recognized for its cleanliness with multiple awards
Parking on Ameland: If you're driving to Holwerd for the ferry to Ameland, there are plenty of paid parking options near the terminal. Finding a free parking spot may take longer during peak times. It's recommended to follow local traffic signs and arrive well in advance, particularly during busier periods.
Known for its picturesque villages and scenic dunes, Ameland’s beaches are perfect for cycling and horseback riding. The island also offers guided mudflat hiking tours, a unique way to explore the beaches of the Wadden Sea and its tidal flats.
You can also enjoy long walks, shell hunting, swimming, sunbathing and fying kites — these are just a few of the many activities available on Ameland's expansive beach throughout the year.
Ameland's beach boasts four beach pavilions where you can savor a delicious meal, relax with a drink, indulge in ice cream, or warm up with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream after a beach stroll. The pavilions offer stunning views of Ameland's beach and the North Sea.
Facilities at the beach and pavilions include showers, toilets, and accessibility features such as beach wheelchairs. You can also rent beach chairs and windbreaks at the pavilion in Nes. Safety is paramount on Ameland's beaches, with KNRM lifeguards stationed at the main beaches (Hollum, Ballum, Nes, and Buren) during the summer months.
Each lifeguard post oversees approximately 500 meters of beach, ensuring a safe environment with 250 meters of coverage on either side. The beach and dune landscape of Ameland is dynamic and ever-changing, shaped by tides and winds, which are ideal conditions for kite flying and kite surfing. The island boasts an impressive 27 kilometers of pristine sandy beach, which has earned recognition for its cleanliness with several awards and accolades.
Strand Nes
Location: 53.45789617424479, 5.7773747667905875
Strand Nes, situated along Ameland's west coast, offers stunning vistas of the North Sea and the island's dunes. It's a favored destination for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities, providing ample space for families and visitors to unwind and enjoy. During peak seasons, lifeguards ensure the safety of swimmers and beach enthusiasts. The beach is surrounded by natural dunes and landscapes, contributing to Ameland's dynamic beach ecosystem. Strand Nes on Ameland's coast is an ideal location to relax, enjoy the sun, and appreciate the island's natural splendor and recreational offerings.
Strand Hollum
Location: 53.44731167556626, 5.6228993949559865
Strand Hollum, located on the southern coast of Ameland, offers a serene beach experience with views of both the North Sea and the iconic lighthouse. This picturesque stretch of coastline is ideal for leisurely walks, sunbathing, and family activities such as beach games.
Strand Ballum
Location: 53.46038290166422, 5.6839965045627405
Strand Ballum, located on the western coast of Ameland, offers a tranquil beach setting with views stretching out over the North Sea. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Strand Ballum is a perfect spot for relaxation and leisure activities. This expansive beach is popular for sunbathing, leisurely strolls along the shoreline, and enjoying panoramic views of the sea. Families and visitors can also engage in beach games and picnics, making it an ideal destination for a day out by the water.
Strand Buren
Location: 53.46199263255948, 5.782547337838515
Strand Buren, situated on the eastern coast of Ameland, offers a serene and family-friendly beach experience overlooking the Wadden Sea. Known for its expansive sandy shores and calm waters, Strand Buren is a favored destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities. Surrounded by natural dunes and coastal vegetation, Strand Buren offers a peaceful retreat and picturesque views of the Wadden Sea. It's an ideal destination on Ameland for families and nature enthusiasts looking to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the island's eastern coastline.
Schiermonnikoog beach
Location: 53.49054024076252, 6.227526673857246
Highlights:
- Stretching on for kilometers with fine, light-colored sand
- Generally quiet, offering peaceful surroundings
- Easily reached by bicycle or on foot
- Backed by dunes and a gently sloping shoreline
- Ideal spot for sunbathing, leisurely walks, and wildlife observation
- Showers, lifeguard patrols in summer, and nearby dining options
Parking on Schiermonnikoog beach: Schiermonnikoog is a car-free island, so visitors must leave their vehicles on the mainland. If you drive to the ferry terminal in Lauwersoog, there is a large adjacent car park with paid parking facilities available.
Often touted as being the widest beach in The Netherlands Schiermonnikoog is a favorite among nature lovers, boasting an uninterrupted 18 km long sandy coastline. The island’s National Park status ensuring that its beaches remain unspoiled and its wildlife protected.
The extensive beach of Schiermonnikoog stretches for kilometers and remains largely serene, except during a few weeks in July and August. Despite the popularity in summer, the wide sandy beaches ensure ample space for everyone to enjoy. The beach features light-colored sand along a line of dunes with a gently sloping shoreline, accessible by bicycle. Visitors can rent beach chairs and windbreaks to enhance their beach experience.
Badweg
Accessible via the main road leading through the village, Badweg offers a wide and expansive beach with fine white sand, perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, and sandcastle building. During peak season, while the beaches may be busier, there's always plenty of space to relax and enjoy the breathtaking view. Beach Pavilion Pole 3 offers refreshments and meals overlooking the sea.
Prins Bernhardweg
Ideal for families, this section of the beach provides ample space for children to play and adults to unwind. It's home to the northernmost beach pavilion in the Netherlands, Beach Pavilion Marlin, offering delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere—a great spot for enjoying sunsets with a drink in hand.
Oosterstrand
Located on the east side of Schiermonnikoog, Oosterstrand is an untouched, expansive beach renowned for its tranquility and natural beauty. Accessible via Reddingsweg or Waterstaatpad, it's perfect for peaceful beach walks, sunbathing, and wildlife watching. The wide and unspoiled stretch of sand gives a sense of seclusion, ideal for meditation or a leisurely stroll. During the breeding season, various bird species can be observed, and seals may be spotted on nearby sandbanks.
De Balg
De Balg is an expansive and pristine area characterized by its shifting sandbar shaped by tides and winds. Remote and tranquil, it offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature's beauty. Visitors can enjoy uninterrupted walks, birdwatching, and stunning sea views. During low tide, seals often rest on the sandbanks, and the area is a significant breeding ground for seabirds.
Beach accessibility may vary with tides, and it's essential to adhere to local
regulations to preserve the island's natural environment.
Terschelling Beaches
For years, Terschelling has been a popular destination for a diverse array of visitors. The largest Frisian Wadden Island offers something for everyone: a wide beach with swimming spots along the North Sea coast, cycling trails, scenic routes, outdoor activities, and a variety of entertainment options. The sandy beach of Terschelling is one of the finest in the Netherlands. It is broad and flat, making it ideal for rest and relaxation.
Parking on Terschelling beaches: For optimal parking, it is recommended to usie the long-term car parks on Harlingerstraatweg. These parking areas are accessible daily from 7:00 am to 8:30 pm.
West aan Zee
Location: 53.402320637933855, 5.249466579204274
Highlights:
- Perfect for long walks.
- Enjoy food and drinks with a view of the North Sea.
- Opportunities to observe seals.
West aan Zee is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Its wide and expansive beach is perfect for long walks. Here you can find the Strandpaviljoen West aan Zee, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while overlooking the North Sea. This beach also offers opportunities for seal spotting.
Het Groene Strand
Location: 53.3568736150163, 5.211228350438223
Highlights:
- Surrounded by a green dune landscape.
- Overlooks the Wadden Sea and the Brandaris lighthouse.
- Popular with bird watchers.
Located near the village of West-Terschelling, The Green Beach is named after the surrounding green dune landscape that gives it a unique atmosphere and for some, it is the most beautiful beach in Terschelling. From here, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Wadden Sea and the iconic Brandaris lighthouse. It is a favorite spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Midsland aan Zee
Location: 53.4035388759437, 5.28810504417501
Highlights:
- Wide sandy beach surrounded by impressive dunes
- Often seen resting during summer
- Offering food and drinks
Midsland aan Zee is situated midway along the island and features a wide sandy beach surrounded by impressive dunes. This beach is popular among families and often provides opportunities to observe resting seals during the summer. Several cozy beach pavilions offer food and drinks.
The beaches are well-maintained, with daily cleaning and showers to rinse off saltwater.
Whether you're sunbathing, walking along the beach, or enjoying water sports, the well-maintained beaches offer peace and tranquility. Optimal facilities contribute to guest comfort and holiday pleasure, starting with accessible beach crossings and parking places. Lifeguards and the rescue brigade watch over guest well-being, with a first aid post nearby. Additionally, many cafes, terraces, and restaurants near the beach cater to the needs of visitors, offering drinks, snacks, lunch, and dinner.
Lemmer beach
Location: 52.844745548724774, 5.6973580828609105
Highlights:
- Offers a fantastic playground right on the beach, perfect for children to enjoy.
- Nearby parking makes it easy to reach, enhancing its accessibility.
- A highly recommended destination for visitors in the area seeking a relaxing beach experience.
- Home of the Glemmer Beach Festival
Parking on Lemmer beach: There is a spacious parking area just 100 meters from the beach, accessible to all types of vehicles.
Lemmer Beach is situated in the Netherlands, within the town of Lemmer, making it easily accessible and popular among tourists. However, it remains relatively uncrowded during the peak season, allowing for a comfortable experience on the shoreline.
The beach extends along the sunny coast within the town limits, making it easily reachable on foot if your accommodation is nearby. This eliminates the need to search for parking or adhere to public transport schedules. For those traveling by car, navigation tools can guide you directly to the beach. It's also advisable to consider the availability of public transportation and taxi services when planning your visit.
The beach boasts stunning scenery, featuring soft sand and shallow waters ideal for a refreshing swim. Adjacent to the sand, there's a wonderful playground that children will love. Convenient parking nearby adds to its allure.
The Glemmer Beach Festival, held on Lemmer Beach, is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, diverse music lineup, and the perfect blend of sun, sea, and sand. It's a great escape from everyday life, offering music, performers, and community—all enjoyed with bare feet in the sand. Renowned artists are drawn to this event, enticed by the enthusiastic audience and vibrant ambiance.
Beach amenities:
- Playground
- Public toilets
- Free parking
Mirns beach
Location: 52.856118647611126, 5.5073087953219515
Highlights:
- Mirns is renowned among kitesurfers for its ideal conditions and consistent winds.
- Set amidst stunning natural surroundings, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
- Besides kitesurfing, activities such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular, catering to a range of aquatic interests.
Mirns beach parking: When it comes to parking, T Mirnser Klif offers a convenient experience with a nearby parking lot. This setup allows visitors to unload their belongings effortlessly before heading to the beach. Notably, this parking area is free of charge, adding to the appeal for those seeking a hassle-free day out. Such easy accessibility enhances the overall visit, making T Mirnser Klif an attractive destination for drivers.
Mirns is an ideal destination for enthusiasts of kitesurfing and water sports. The prime season to enjoy this paradise spans from March to November, offering an extensive period to experience its exceptional conditions.
Combining the optimal season with steady winds, Mirns emerges as a must-visit spot for thrill-seekers on the water. It is distinguished by its breathtaking landscape and laid-back ambiance, making it a unique destination not only for kitesurfing but also for activities such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Mirns caters to kitesurfers of all proficiencies, from beginners to experts. The tranquil waters and reliable winds provide a safe yet stimulating setting to enhance skills and fully relish the aquatic adventure.
In conclusion, it stands out as an exceptional destination for kitesurfing and water sports enthusiasts alike. With its favorable season, consistent winds, ideal water conditions, and suitability for all skill levels, Mirns promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking thrilling water activities.
Mirns beach amenities:
- Parking lot nearby
- Hiking trails
- Restaurants nearby
- At Mirnser klif dogs are not allowed
Sneekermeer beach
Location: 53.039950339547175, 5.740849538796218
Highlights:
- A lakeside beach with swimming, play structures, water-skiing
- Known as the water sports city of the Netherlands, famous for the Sneekweek sailing competition
- The interconnected waterways make it convenient to reach and explore the lake
- Options available for renting a boat or joining a tour boat for a scenic journey through Sneek beach
Parking at Sneekermeer lake: You can park your car in the car park at 'Het Pottenstrand', located approximately 100 meters ahead of the ferry terminal on the left side (coming from Sneek).
De Potten Recreational Area is a charming lakeside beach near Sneekermeer Lake, offering excellent facilities for swimming, play structures, water-skiing, and public toilets.
Sneek is renowned as the ultimate destination for water sports in the Netherlands. Famous for Sneekweek, the largest annual sailing competition in Europe, the event takes place on the inland waters of Sneek. Very close to Sneek you will find the Sneekermeer, or Snitser Mar. Due to the short travel distances in Southwest Friesland and the interconnected waterways, you can quickly reach the lake and De Potten beach for a relaxing day of sunbathing and paddling.
During winter, locals await the Eleven Cities Tour, with Sneek being the first city visited after Leeuwarden. When the water isn't frozen, you can enjoy the Elfstedentocht by boat, bicycle, or camper. Departing from Sneek is an excellent option, and exploring the area by boat is easy with rental options or tour boats available.
Sneekermeer lake amenities:
- Speedboat track
- Launch islands
- Moorings for boats
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Snack bar
- Public toilet
Heegermeer lake
Location: 52.953420179351, 5.584276121830243
Highlights:
- Features several islands, including Rakkenpolle and Langehoekspolle.
- Designated swimming beaches are available in Heeg and Indijk.
- Easy access to Fluessen and Morra lakes.
Parking at Heegermeer lake: For those visiting Heegermeer lake, ample parking is available nearby to accommodate visitors arriving by car.
The Heegermeer (Frisian: Hegemer Mar) is named after the nearby village of Heeg. This lake features several islands, such as Rakkenpolle and Langehoekspolle. Swimming is allowed at beaches in Heeg and Indijk. From the Heegermeer, navigating to the Fluessen and then to the Morra is considered to be pretty easy.
The Heegermeer includes a designated fast navigation area marked by yellow buoys, where boats are permitted to travel at higher speeds. Outside this area, boaters should adjust their speed to accommodate other water sports enthusiasts.
Heegermeer lake amenities:
- Tent friendly
- Pet friendly
The Groene Ster recreation and nature reserve
Location: 53.21475407723233, 5.875596670077259
Highlights:
- A 1000-hectare recreation and nature reserve on the east side of Leeuwarden
- The island is connected by a dam on the west and east sides, with a cycle path running through it
- The northern part is for textile beaches, while the southern part, including the nudist beach, serves a natural function
- Features a sandy beach, lawns, and an expanded sunbathing area with larger trees providing shade
Parking at the Groene Ster recreation and nature reserve: Roazendaal parking lot is right at the start of the hiking trail.
The Groene Ster is a 1000-hectare recreation and nature reserve located on the east side of Leeuwarden. Since 1980, nude recreation has been permitted in a designated part of the Groene Ster. During the area's expansion and redesign in 1995, the nude recreation area was relocated to an island accessible via two bridges. Although nude recreation was officially allowed in a specific part of the island, over the years, the entire island has been used by nudists.
The island is connected by a dam on the west and east sides, with a cycle path running through it. This divides the water into two compartments: the northern part for textile beaches and the southern part, which includes the nudist beach, serving a natural function. The nudist beach is separated from the cycle path by an earthen wall and a ditch.
The area includes a sandy beach, lawns, and the gentle slope of the wall, which can be used as additional beach space. The last groves were removed in autumn 2018, expanding the sunbathing area. Larger trees provide shade during warm summer days.
The water has a slowly sloping bottom (0 - 1.70 meters deep), making it suitable for less experienced swimmers. There is no fenced swimming area for children, and the subsoil limits visibility. Caution is advised for sharp freshwater mussels when entering and leaving the water.
De Ulesprong
Location: 52.913189930610585, 5.7803000583855
Highlights:
- Easily accessible from the A6 motorway, located between Lemmer and Joure
- Large lawn area perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and outdoor activities
- Close to De Deelen nature reserve
- Ample space for family activities, making it popular among locals and tourists
- Ideal for swimming and various water sports, located on the shores of Tjeukemeer
Parking at De Ulesprong: paid parking is possible near the beach.
The Ulesprong is a picturesque beach with a spacious lawn located on the shores of the Tjeukemeer. Easily accessible, it is situated along the A6 motorway between Lemmer and Joure.
Conveniently located off the A6 motorway, making it easy to reach from nearby towns such as Lemmer and Joure. It offers a large lawn area perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and various outdoor activities.
During the summer, a ferry service for runners and cyclists connects the Ulesprong with the Lange Ripen and the Sudergemaal on the Beetster side of the Nije Feart. Located west of the Ulesprong is the De Deelen nature reserve, a beautiful area known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
The beach and lawn provide ample space for family activities, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is also ideal for swimming and other water sports, given its location on the Tjeukemeer.
Coastal map of Friesland and Wadden Islands (map of beaches)
For those exploring Friesland and the Wadden Islands, a the map about the beaches can be a useful resource, which indicates the locations of the beaches across the region. It offers a clear overview of where each beach is situated, helping you plan your itinerary and navigate the area efficiently.
