Groote Keeten Strand

Callantsoog, Netherlands

Callantsoog is one of the best dog beach destinations in North Holland thanks to its four year-round off-leash zones. These designated sections between specific beach poles allow dogs to run freely every day of the year, regardless of season. The four zones are located between poles 8100–9400, 10500–11100, 14500–17100, and 18400–20000, together offering several kilometres of unrestricted beach. Outside these zones, the standard Schagen municipality rules apply: dogs off-leash from October through March, and leashed between 9:00–19:00 during the summer months. The beach at Callantsoog is wide and sandy, backed by pristine dunes, and is a favourite among Dutch families and dog owners. The village itself is a charming seaside resort with restaurants, shops, and all the amenities you need for a beach day. Parking is available near the beach entrances. The nearby Zwanenwater nature reserve — one of the largest dune lakes in the Netherlands — offers additional walking opportunities, though dogs may need to be leashed there. Callantsoog earned a Blue Flag award for its clean water and well-maintained beach, so you can be confident about water quality for your dog.

Julianadorp, Netherlands

Julianadorp aan Zee is the southernmost beach of the municipality of Den Helder, offering a beautiful stretch of North Sea coastline with a dedicated year-round off-leash zone for dogs between beach poles 6 and 7. This makes it one of the few beaches on this coast where your dog can run freely even during peak summer months. Outside this designated area, the standard Den Helder rules apply: dogs off-leash from October through April, and leashed between 9:00 and 19:00 during the summer season. The beach is wide and well-maintained, with good facilities including Strandrestaurant Paal 6 — a popular beach pavilion offering food and drinks. The beach entrance is fully paved and wheelchair-accessible, with a beach wheelchair available at the lifeguard station. Free parking is available at the car park near the bungalow park and restaurant Noordzee, just a few minutes' walk from the sand. Julianadorp itself is a pleasant village with holiday parks, restaurants, and easy access to the coastal dunes. The beach is well-connected to neighbouring areas, making it possible to walk north towards Den Helder or south towards Callantsoog for extended beach hikes with your dog.

Sint Maartensvlotbrug, Netherlands

Sint Maartenszee is a tranquil seaside resort in the municipality of Schagen, known for its wide dunes and expansive beach. The village is popular with families and dog owners alike, offering a relaxed North Sea beach experience. During winter from October through March, dogs enjoy complete freedom on the beach with no restrictions. In summer, dogs must be leashed between 9:00 and 19:00, but can run freely in the early morning and evening hours. The dunes at Sint Maartenszee are notably wider than at other nearby resorts, meaning a longer walk (approximately 700 metres) from the parking area to the beach — but this also means the beach feels more secluded and natural. In summer months, a small train runs from just past the entrance to help with the journey. Free parking is available at the beach access points, with Strandslag 14 and 15 recommended. Two beach pavilions — Sint Maartenszee Noord and NewZuid — operate during the season, offering food and drinks on the sand. The village borders the year-round off-leash Korfwater beach to the south, making it possible to walk to a fully unrestricted area even during summer daytime hours.