The beach of Egmond aan Zee is wide, family-friendly and lively – a popular destination for sunseekers and families on the North Holland coast.
Plenty of space: The beach stretches for about 5 kilometres and is on average 50 to 150 metres wide – offering ample room to sunbathe, play or relax, even on busy summer days.
Connected to nearby villages: To the north, the beach seamlessly merges with that of Bergen aan Zee, perfect for long seaside walks.
Close to the village centre: It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the heart of the village to the beach. There are several access points, many of which are suitable for prams and people with reduced mobility.
Historic lighthouse: The iconic Jan van Speijk lighthouse – one of the oldest still operating in the Netherlands – proudly stands above the beach and is open to the public.
Nature nearby:Egmond aan Zee borders directly on the North Holland Dune Reserve, offering marked walking and cycling routes through dunes inhabited by rabbits, birds and Highland cattle.
Whether you're after a sunny day, a long walk along the coast or a weekend getaway – Egmond aan Zee has it all: nature, relaxation and the charm of an authentic fishing village with modern amenities.
Award-Winning Beaches
The beaches of Egmond aan Zee have received multiple awards for their outstanding quality, cleanliness, and safe facilities.
Blue Flag: In 2024, the beach of Egmond aan Zee received the 14thBlue Flag – the international label for clean bathing water, well-maintained beaches, and excellent facilities.
The main beach, located right next to the village centre of Egmond aan Zee, is the most popular and busiest beach. Here, you’ll find everything you need for a perfect day at the beach:
Swimming & Sunbathing – This beach has lifeguards and a designated swimming area during the summer months, making it ideal for families with children.
Rental of sunbeds & parasols – Don’t feel like carrying your own gear? You can rent sunbeds and windbreaks at various spots.
Buzzing atmosphere & beach activities – On summer days, this beach is full of life, with volleyball matches, sandcastle competitions, and yoga lessons on the beach. Enjoy a snack and drink with a sea view at the beach pavilions.
This is the perfect place for anyone who enjoys a lively atmosphere and wants facilities within easy reach.
To the south of Egmond aan Zee, the beach becomes much quieter. This part of the coastline directly borders the North Holland Dune Reserve and mainly attracts nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Here you can enjoy:
Quieter than the main beach – Here, you'll find more space and fewer tourists, perfect if you want to enjoy nature without the crowds.
Walk to Bergen aan Zee – A lovely beach walk of about 5 kilometres will take you to the nearby Bergen aan Zee, where you can stop at a beach pavilion for a break.
Whether you love relaxation, sporty activities, or just want to enjoy the stunning views, the beaches of Egmond aan Zee offer something for everyone.
Facilities & Safety on the Beach
The beaches of Egmond aan Zee are clean, well-maintained and equipped with all the conveniences for a relaxing day by the sea.
Daily cleaning: Every summer day, the beaches are cleaned so you can enjoy a fresh and tidy spot on the sand.
Showers: Showers are located throughout the beach to rinse off sand and seawater – ideal after swimming or playing.
Supervision & First Aid: During the summer season, lifeguards and beach patrols look after your safety. First aid stations are available at the busier entrances.
Comfort for Everyone
Whether you come to sunbathe, walk, play or enjoy watersports – the wide beaches of Egmond aan Zee offer peace, space and comfort for all ages.
Accessibility: Many beach entrances are suitable for prams and wheelchairs. Nearby parking areas make your beach visit even easier.
Food & drink nearby: Along the beach you'll find cosy pavilions and terraces for an ice cream, lunch, drink or dinner with a sea view.
Orientation Poles on the Beach
On the main beaches of Egmond aan Zee, eye-catching orientation poles are placed during the summer season. Each pole has a unique figure on top – like an animal or symbol – clearly visible from a distance. They are mainly intended as reference points for children.
For children: The recognisable figures help them remember where they are sitting or where their parents are.
For parents: Agree on a specific pole in advance as a meeting point to find each other again.
Beach Supervision in Egmond aan Zee
At the main beaches of Egmond aan Zee, lifeguards ensure a safe day by the sea. This way, you can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand without worry.
When: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00 in July and August, and also on weekends between 15 May and 15 September if the weather is good.
Qualified lifeguards: Trained in first aid and equipped with communication tools and rescue gear.
Lifeguard stations: Spread along the beach, clearly marked with flags and lookout points. These manned stations provide constant supervision.
Danger warnings: In case of strong currents or bad weather, you will be warned in time via flags.
Flags and Their Meanings
On the beaches of Egmond aan Zee, you will find various information signs and beach flags to inform and warn swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and other beachgoers about the risks associated with swimming in the sea. Below you will find the meanings of these flags:
Red-Yellow Flag
Supervised beach zone. Lifeguards present Lifeguard station is open, and qualified lifeguards are monitoring the area within the lifeguard brigade's working area.
Red Flag
No swimming! Very dangerous sea Warns of serious danger and is raised when swimming conditions are very dangerous. Swimming, bathing, and other activities in or on the sea are strongly discouraged.
Yellow Flag
Be careful when swimming! Dangerous sea Warns of dangerous conditions in the sea. Extra caution and vigilance are required.
Orange Windsock
Be careful when swimming! Do not use floatation devices! Warns against the use of (inflatable) floatation devices due to offshore winds.
White Flag with Blue Question Mark
Child found! A child has been found who is missing their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are asked to report to the lifeguard station.
Green Flag with White Cross
First Aid Post First aid personnel are present at the lifeguard station.
Black and White Chequered Flag
Water sports allowed In the zone between the two black and white chequered flags, water sports are allowed.
Pay attention to these flags and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards for your safety and the safety of others on the beach.
Dogs on the Beach
For many dogs, the beach is the ultimate place to run, play, and swim. Whether it’s a seaside walk in the fresh sea breeze or a cheerful game with a frisbee or ball – dogs clearly enjoy a day by the sea. But please note: on many beaches, seasonal rules apply regarding dogs.
Dogs are prohibited on the beaches of Egmond aan Zee during the period 1 May till 1 October between 10:00 till 19:00.
Outside of the above mentioned period and time are dogs allowed (both loose and leased) on the beaches of Egmond aan Zee.
Further, we also recommend reading the information board, with the local beach rules, which is often placed near every beach (entrance).
At low tide there is a strong current towards the sea, than stay close to shore. In case you get pulled in by the current do not try to swim straight against it, but swim slanting to the shore with the current. Also be aware of floating devices like air-beds, boats or other swimming devices.
Do not get to close to the poles, piers or other obstacles.
Watch your children carefully, do not let them alone near the water. Are there recognition signs on the beach, tell it to your children.