Bergen aan Zee Strand

Ameland, Netherlands

Ameland's North Sea beach is a continuous 27-kilometre strip of fine white sand running the entire length of the island's northern coast. Dogs are welcome off-leash year-round on the vast majority of this beach, making Ameland one of the most generous islands for four-legged visitors. The main beach access points are at Hollum (west, near the lighthouse), Ballum, Nes (the busiest section with most facilities), and Buren (east). The only restrictions are at the monitored beach crossings and the green beach near Ballum, where leashes are required. Away from these spots, your dog has kilometres of open sand and surf to enjoy. Ameland also has three designated off-leash zones inland: near Koudenburg in Hollum, Roosdunen in Ballum, and Kwekerijbos in Nes. In forests, dunes, grazing areas, and villages, dogs must stay on a leash. Ameland is reached by Wagenborg ferry from Holwerd, with a 45-minute crossing running approximately seven times daily. Dogs need a paid ticket for the ferry (approximately the child fare rate). The island has four villages — Hollum, Ballum, Nes, and Buren — each with their own character, shops, and restaurants. Nes is the main village and ferry port, making it the easiest starting point for beach adventures with your dog.

Bloemendaal, Netherlands

Bloemendaal aan Zee Hondenstrand is one of the most beloved year-round dog beaches in the Netherlands, located between the Parnassia beach exit and the naturist beach in the heart of Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. Unlike most Dutch beaches that restrict dogs in summer, this designated dog section allows off-leash play 365 days a year, making it a true paradise for dog owners from across the Randstad. The beach stretches along a beautiful, wide section of North Sea coastline backed by pristine dunes. During the off-season from September 15 to May 15, dogs are welcome everywhere along Bloemendaal aan Zee on a leash, with the dog beach section remaining off-leash. In the high season from May 15 to September 15, dogs are restricted to the designated dog beach area and may visit pavilion terraces on a leash. The nearby Parnassia aan Zee beach pavilion is dog-friendly and even offers a special dog menu. Parking is available at the large Parnassia car park on the Zeeweg, with the first half hour free, then EUR 3.00 per hour or EUR 19.00 for a day pass. Bike parking is also available. The beach is easily accessible from Haarlem and Amsterdam, nestled within the stunning dune landscape where you might spot Highland cattle and Konik horses on your walk in.

Breskens, Netherlands

Breskens beach is a popular dog-friendly destination on the Zeeuws-Vlaanderen coast, part of the municipality of Sluis. The beach stretches for nearly 2.7 kilometers along the North Sea, offering plenty of space for dogs to run and play. During the off-season from October through April, dogs can roam freely off-leash all day long. In the summer months, a leash is required during the busiest hours between 10:00 and 18:00, but dogs can still enjoy off-leash time in the early morning and evening. The beach is well-maintained with clean sand and has been recognized as one of the cleanest beaches in the Netherlands. Beach pavilions along the promenade welcome dog owners, and the Zeedijk provides easy access to the sand. Breskens is also known for its fishing harbor and maritime character, making it a charming base for a dog-friendly beach holiday. The town has a lively fishing auction, restaurants serving fresh fish, and easy ferry connections to Vlissingen across the Westerschelde.