The 6 most beautiful campsites in the Netherlands
The Netherlands, with its endless sand dunes, picturesque beaches, and charming seaside towns, offers a breathtaking scene for your next camping adventure. In this article, we take you on a journey to the most beautiful campsites located directly by the sea. Whether you are looking for peace and relaxation or prefer activities such as water sports and cycling, the Netherlands has something that suits all camping lovers.
In this article, you will find out exactly what awaits you at the various campsites, as well as which facilities you can take advantage of and which activities are offered. We also have excursion tips ready for each location. On your next road trip, you can thus experience the natural beauty of the Netherlands and the warm atmosphere that makes camping on the coast so special.
1. Kennemer Camping de Lakens
Bloemendaal – Overveen
The charming municipality of Bloemendaal in the north of the Netherlands attracts travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural flair. The fact that the campsite is in the north makes it even more easily accessible for those who come from the north, maybe as a part of a road trip from Scandinavia. With impressive dunes, wide sandy beaches, and historic houses, Bloemendaal offers optimal conditions for relaxing beach days. The surrounding area is ideal for walking and cycling, while the slightly more lively center of the city offers cozy cafes and shops.
The campsite Camping de Lakens is located directly on the beach Bloemendaal aan Zee and invites you to an unforgettable holiday between wild dunes and the powerful waves of the North Sea. The spacious campsite offers many facilities for you to have a relaxing holiday, such as a restaurant, a small shop, a large playground, a free sauna, a gym, a laundry station, and a bicycle rental. The campsite can also boast of having the Dutch Green Key certificate, which shows that they work for especially sustainable tourism.
Information about Camping de Lakens
| Address | Zeeweg 60 2051 EM Overveen Netherlands |
| Telephone | +31235411570 |
| info@campingdelakens.nl | |
| Website | Camping de Lakens |
| Opening hours | Mid-March to early November |
| Fee | From 55 EUR (minimum 3 nights) |
| Toilet/Shower | Yes |
| Washing machine | Yes |
| Emptying gray water and chemical toilet | Yes |
| Electricity | Yes |
| Food service | Restaurant, small shop, barbecue area |
| Dogs allowed? | No |
| Reservation | Possible |
| Wifi | Yes (fee) |
| Specialties | Sauna, playground, beach volleyball, bicycle rental, access to the beach |
At this campsite, you can choose between several pitches, all of which have an electricity connection. In terms of other aspects, the different pitches differ to suit different tastes. Whether you want to camp in the middle of the dunes or prioritize having a picnic table close by, you will find your perfect spot here. Some places are very close to the sea, while others are primarily focused on seclusion and tranquility. What is particularly nice is the clever division of the pitches, which offer a lot of privacy and a lot of nature. You’ll also find plenty of clean sanitary facilities scattered across the campsite, so you don’t have to walk long distances for this matter.
Excursion tips:
From the campsite, you reach the national park Zuid Kennemerland by foot, which even has its own entrance just a few meters from the campsite. Here, you will find a real paradise for nature lovers and adventure fans. With its extensive dune landscapes, wide beaches, and picturesque forests, the park offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or bird watching. You can also explore historical sights, such as the ruins of castle Brederode. In short, the national park is a perfect excursion for those who want to experience the beauty of the Dutch landscape.
Another excursion tip is the Keukenhof Botanical Garden, which you can reach within 30 minutes by car. The garden is famous for its tulip fields with millions of flowers in every imaginable color. It can be visited from mid-March to mid-May. Here, you’re able to stroll artfully designed gardens, discover rare plants, and marvel at the beautiful mill from 1892. The beauty of the flowers and the inviting atmosphere make Keukenhof an unforgettable experience if you love nature and botanical gardens. Plus, what would a trip to the Netherlands be without visiting a classic tulip field?
2. Camping Janse
Zoutelande
The idyllic village of Zoutelande is located in the Dutch province of Zeeland on the Walcheren peninsula, very close to the Belgian border. Zoutelande is famous for its sunsets and attracts those looking for peace and relaxation, but watersports enthusiasts will also be spoiled. The well-maintained promenade close to the campsite offers cozy cafes and shops, while you can explore the surroundings thanks to a wide selection of cycling and hiking trails. Thus, Zoutelande is a perfect destination if you want a relaxing beach holiday, combined with the opportunity to experience the picturesque beauty of the Dutch coast.
Where the Westerschelde inlet meets the North Sea, there is an almost 13-kilometer stretch of beach that is perfect for long walks. This is also where Camping Janse is located, which is best known for its attractive location behind the dunes, with access to the beach and large pitches. Facilities such as a kiosk, a small grocery store, a playground, and a library ensure that you can spend a relaxing camping holiday here.
Information about Camping Janse
| Address | Westkapelseweg 59 4374 ND Zoutelande Netherlands |
| Telephone | +31118561359 |
| info@campingjanse.nl | |
| Website | Camping Janse |
| Opening hours | Mid-March to early November |
| Fee | From 22 EUR |
| Toilet/Shower | Yes |
| Washing machine | Yes |
| Emptying gray water and chemical toilet | Yes |
| Electricity | Yes |
| Food service | Kiosk, small grocery store, family room with microwave |
| Dogs allowed? | Yes |
| Reservation | Possible |
| Wifi | Yes (free) |
| Specialties | Playground, library, beach access |
With your motorhome, you can spend your holiday on one of the spacious pitches, where well-tended hedges ensure privacy and visibility. All pitches have electricity and the fresh water stations are within easy walking distance. In the center of the campsite, you’ll find the large communal building with showers, toilets, laundry, and a dish room. The cleanliness and friendly staff of the campsite are praised by travelers, time and time again.
Excursion tips:
About 50 minutes by car from the campsite is the famous Watersnood Museum, which purpose is to remember and raise awareness of the flood disaster of 1953, which affected large parts of north-western Europe. Here, you can relive the dramatic events of this natural disaster thanks to interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and multimedia presentations. You can also take part in an informative tour to deepen your understanding of the region’s history and the importance of flood protection. To round off your visit, you can pay a visit to the museum’s restaurant.
Another exciting destination for a day trip is the mills in Kinderdijk-Elshout. This place is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, and here, you will find 19 well-preserved windmills. These are up to 700 years old and were once used to pump water from the lower polders. During your visit, you can stroll the picturesque paths, visit the historic mills, explore the visitor center, and enjoy the view of the mill area from the mighty wooden terrace.
3. Strandcamping Groede
Groede
The Dutch village of Groede is located in Zeeuws Vlaanderen, also called Zeeland Flanders. The special thing about this region is that for a long time, it could not be reached in the “normal” way, via roads from the mainland of the Netherlands. Since 2003, however, there is the Westerschelde Tunnel, which connects Zeeuws Vlaanderen with the Netherlands. Before that, access was only possible via Belgium or by water.
Groede is a wonderful destination, not least for those who appreciate feeling the beat of history. This becomes especially clear when walking through the city center, with its narrow streets and brick buildings with traditional tiled roofs. Just five minutes from the center is the beautiful sandy beach nestled on the North Sea coast.
From the campsite Strandcamping Groede, you can walk to the beach, which is located directly behind the impressive dunes. From here, you have many options in terms of activities such as hiking and cycling. If you haven’t brought your own bike in the camper, you can rent bikes at the campsite. There is also a small grocery store at the campsite to stock up before the excursion, and maybe buy a picnic to take with you. In the evening, you can also stop at the campsite’s cozy restaurant.
Information about Strandcamping Groede
| Address | Zeeweg 1 4503 PA Groede Netherlands |
| Telephone | +31117371384 |
| receptie@strandcampinggroede.nl | |
| Website | Strandcamping Groede |
| Opening hours | Mid-March to early November |
| Fee | From 35 EUR (2 persons) |
| Toilet/Shower | Yes |
| Washing machine | Yes |
| Emptying gray water and chemical toilet | Yes |
| Electricity | Yes |
| Food service | Restaurants, kiosk, small grocery store |
| Dogs allowed? | Yes |
| Reservation | Possible |
| Wifi | Yes (free) |
| Specialties | Bike rental, versatile sports ground, playground, access to the beach |
At Strandcamping Groede, you can choose between pitches of different sizes. Some places offer a little extra privacy, but shady trees and idyllic vegetation are found throughout the campsite. In addition, all pitches are equipped with a power connection. Within minutes from your pitch, you reach sanitary buildings, toilets, showers for furry friends, and washing machines, so nothing stands in the way of a comfortable camping holiday.
Excursion tips:
If you drive about ten minutes from the campsite, you will arrive at Rederij de Festijn in the neighboring town of Breskens. Here. you can take a boat trip to a seal colony, where you can observe the animals in their natural habitat. In order not to disturb the peaceful animals, the boat keeps a sufficient distance. Bring binoculars if you want a closer look. You will also encounter a variety of seabirds that live on the North Sea coast. After the boat trip, you have the opportunity to visit the fishing museum or explore the harbor town of Breskens with its nice beach.
4. Camping Bakkum
Castricum
The municipality of Castricum belongs to the province of North Netherlands and attracts travelers with its friendly charm. The surrounding area looks like a postcard with its wide sand dunes and enchanting beach. The area is also known for the region’s fascinating archaeological heritage, which you can explore at the Huis van Hilde information center. Castricum is an ideal destination for those who want to camp with a mix of nature, interesting history, and lots of relaxation. Here, you can spend the morning relaxing at the beach, enjoying the beauty of the sea, and go on more eventful excursions in the afternoon.
Camping Bakkum directly borders the nature reserve Noordhollands Duinreservaat, which stretches 20 kilometers along the coast. As the name suggests, the area is characterized by breathtakingly beautiful sand dunes. In other words, at this campsite, you get the best of both worlds; spend the night in/near a wild, impressive natural area, but at the same time find everything you need for a smooth, successful holiday at the campsite. There is a well-stocked grocery store, a camping supply store, free Wi-Fi, a gym, a tennis court, and an outdoor theater. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll also find a small farm with animals at the campsite.
Information about Camping Bakkum
| Address | Zeeweg 31 1901 NZ Castricum Netherlands |
| Telephone | +31251661091 |
| info@campingbakkum.nl | |
| Website | Camping Bakkum |
| Opening hours | Mid-March to early November |
| Fee | From 31 EUR (minimum 2 nights) |
| Toilet/Shower | Yes |
| Washing machine | Yes |
| Emptying gray water and chemical toilet | Yes |
| Electricity | Yes |
| Food service | Restaurant, grocery store |
| Dogs allowed? | No |
| Reservation | Possible |
| Wifi | Yes (free) |
| Specialties | Gym, tennis court, playground, outdoor theater, farm with animals, access to a doctor, relatively close to the beach (1 km) |
Here, you can choose the type of pitch you want to camp on, as they all have slightly different focuses. You can set up in a forest pitch between tall trees, in the water sports area with a lot of beach feeling, in a sunny spot in the middle of the dunes, or in a classic pitch with asphalted ground. Thus, you will be able to take advantage of an impressive range of offers. You can expect a cozy atmosphere, clean sanitary facilities, modern equipment, and a child-friendly campsite.
Excursion tips:
About a 20-minute drive from the campsite, you will find the Sea Aquarium Bergen aan Zee, which is home to over 100 different species of fish, plus seals and reptiles. Sharks, rays, and octopuses in particular make for a particularly fascinating sight. The aquarium is open all year round and is located directly on the beach in Bergen aan Zee, meaning that you can enjoy the sunset during a walk on the beach after your visit.
Another destination worth paying a visit is the city of Alkmaar, which can also be reached within 20 minutes. It is known for its historic atmosphere and its famous cheese market. The cobbled streets of the old town are lined with historic buildings and canals. As you stroll through the city, you are thrown back to a bygone era. If you want to visit the cheese market, which has been organized here since the 17th century, you should visit the Waagplein in Alkmaar on a Friday morning from the end of March to the end of September, or on Tuesday evenings from July to August. Art galleries, cozy cafes, and the Stedelijk Museum offer you additional cultural highlights in this picturesque city.
5. Ardoer Camping ‘t Noorder Sandt
Julianadorp
The town of Julianadorp belongs to the municipality of Den Helder and is located in the northern part of the province of North Netherlands, just like Camping Bakkum above. The cute coastal town impresses with its endless sandy beaches and picturesque dunes right on the North Sea. The relaxed atmosphere and the various activity options make the area an optimal destination for family holidays. Whether you’re sunbathing on the beach, cycling through the coastal landscape, or engaging in water sports activities, you’ll find that Julianadorp offers a perfect mix of quieter nature experiences and more action-packed elements by the sea.
Should you be unlucky with the weather during your camping holiday at Ardoer Camping ‘t Noorder Sandt, a really good rescue awaits. This is because the campsite offers an indoor pool, where you can swim a few lengths until the sun shines again. Of course, there are also opportunities for other memorable excursions when the weather is good. These range from bike hire and horse riding to renting a canoe or a stand-up paddleboard. In other words, you are very likely to find the right activity for your vacation.
Information about Ardoer Camping ‘t Noorder Sandt
| Address | Noorder Sandt 2 1787 CX Julianadorp Netherlands |
| Telephone | +31223641266 |
| noordersandt@ardoer.com | |
| Website | Ardoer Camping ‘t Noorder Sant |
| Opening hours | Mid-March to early November |
| Fee | From 36 EUR (2 persons) |
| Toilet/Shower | Yes |
| Washing machine | Yes |
| Emptying gray water and chemical toilet | Yes |
| Electricity | Yes |
| Food service | Restaurant, café, shared kitchen, grocery store (approx. 3 km) |
| Dogs allowed? | Yes |
| Reservation | Possible |
| Wifi | Yes (free) |
| Specialties | Canoe, bike, and SUP rentals, horseback riding, indoor pool, playground, beach access (600 m) |
If you choose this campsite for your Dutch camping holiday, you will stay on a spacious pitch in the countryside with its own electricity connection and within walking distance of a kilometer-long sandy beach at the North Sea and. Camping lovers here praise the friendly staff, the convenient dog shower, and the exceptional location right on a canal, which offers a perfect opportunity to learn SUP.
Excursion tips:
When you leave the campsite on a bike tour, you should not miss the Grote Kaap lighthouse, which you can already see from three kilometers away. After parking the bike and climbing the 65 steps, you can enjoy the breathtaking view from the observation deck and admire the picturesque coastal scenery. After another seven kilometers of biking, you can take a break in the Zwanenwater nature reserve and explore the two natural dune lakes.
6. Camping Zeeburg Amsterdam
Amsterdam
The capital of the Netherlands is located on the Markermeer, a lake measuring almost 700 square kilometers, which is separated from the Ijsselmeer by a dike, followed by another dike, and finally the West Frisian Islands and the open North Sea. The two lakes and embankments are parts of the Zuiderzeewerke, which serves to protect the Netherlands from floods. In fact, Amsterdam is already 40 centimeters below sea level. If you fancy camping in Amsterdam, you’ve come to the right place. Here, almost in the middle of the metropolis, you can combine the pulsating big-city feel with a cozy camping holiday. It’s about exploring the extensive cultural offering, the historical sights, and enjoying the lively city life. You can indulge in everything from bike rides along the canals to memorable evenings in hip street cafes. In short, Amsterdam offers a varied mix of urban adventures and nature experiences, optimal for anyone who wants to discover the alternative and authentic side of this fascinating city.
At Camping Zeeburg Amsterdam, you’ll be welcomed at a lively destination with colorful trailers and houses, an herb garden, an extensive range of sports, as well as a sustainable and environmentally conscious concept. At the site, which is located right on the water, you can rent a canoe or stand-up paddleboard from the boat rental and explore Amsterdam by the water. Also, the largest skate park in the Netherlands is only five minutes from the campsite. If you just want to get to know the Dutch capital better, you also have the perfect starting point.
Information about Camping Zeeburg
| Address | South IJdijk 20 1095 KN Amsterdam Netherlands |
| Telephone | +31206944430 |
| info@campingzeeburg.nl | |
| Website | Camping Zeeburg |
| Opening hours | Year round |
| Fee | From 22 EUR |
| Toilet/Shower | Yes |
| Washing machine | Yes |
| Emptying gray water and chemical toilet | Yes |
| Electricity | Yes |
| Food service | Snack bar, grocery store, shared kitchen, barbecue area |
| Dogs allowed? | Yes |
| Reservation | Possible |
| Wifi | Yes (free) |
| Specialties | Boat rental, bicycle rental, swimming area, herb garden, zoo |
At Camping Zeeburg Amsterdam, you can choose whether you want to stay on a regular pitch or on a so-called comfort pitch, which differs from the others in size. All locations have a power connection and free Wi-Fi. You can also take advantage of several sanitary buildings, some with washing machines, a communal kitchen, and a barbecue area, all within walking distance of your pitch. If you are camping here with children, they will most love the small zoo, which is located just behind the large sanitary building.
Excursion tips:
Of course, once you’re here, you shouldn’t miss out on some sightseeing in the city center. We’ve already touched on that, but it’s clear that Amsterdam impresses with charming canals, historic buildings, and a lot of culture. One of the most famous sights is the Anne Frank House, a moving museum dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish woman who fell victim to the Holocaust. Other interesting sights include the Van Gogh Museum, located right next to the idyllic Vondelpark, Dam Square with the Royal Palace, and the Rijksmuseum, which houses more than 8,000 works of art from the Netherlands and Europe. A particular highlight is the city tours you can take by boat along the canals. Another memorable option is a walk through the lively neighborhood of De Pijp.
My final thoughts
If you go camping by the sea in the Netherlands, you have a lot of ways to be impressed and get to know this diverse country better. It is optimal for nature lovers, adventure fans, and those seeking relaxation. The idyllic campsites along the North Sea, such as in Julianadorp, Bloemendaal, and Zoutelande, offer you relaxing days on the beach, as well as the opportunity to take part in a variety of water sports.
You can also visit the larger cities of Amsterdam or Alkmaar. In that way, you don’t miss out on urban and cultural experiences. A trip to the Keukenhof botanical garden or the historic mills in Kinderdijk-Elshout enriches your camping holiday with Dutch top sights.
If you head for one of the well-equipped campsites we have just presented, you can expect a friendly atmosphere and a unique combination of nature and culture. They all offer unforgettable ways to fully enjoy the beauty of this country. What are you waiting for?
Your ride to adventure. Rent it.