Hoek van Holland Strand

Monster, Netherlands

Monster Molenslag Strand is a wide, natural beach on the Westland coast that extends into the spectacular Zandmotor (Sand Engine), a man-made peninsula that is one of the largest coastal reinforcement projects in the world. The beach is part of the Nationaal Park Hollandse Duinen and offers a wild, unspoiled stretch of coast that dogs love to explore. During the off-season from October through April, dogs enjoy full off-leash freedom across the entire beach. In summer, dogs can be off-leash before 10:00 and after 19:00, while leashes are required during the day. The section from Molenslag northward to the Kijkduin border allows year-round off-leash access, connecting seamlessly with the Kijkduin dog beach for an extended walk. Halfway along the Molenslag there is also a Hondendijk — a large, fully enclosed dune area specifically designed for dogs to run freely year-round. Parking is available at the Molenslag beach entrance. From April through September, parking is paid with the first two hours free, followed by hourly charges. The Zandmotor itself is a fascinating landscape feature — a huge artificial sand deposit that naturally distributes sand along the coast, creating an ever-changing beach environment with shallow lagoons and wide sandbars that are perfect for dogs to explore.

Oostvoorne, Netherlands

Oostvoorne Hondenstrand, formerly known as the Autostrand (car beach), is one of the best year-round off-leash dog beaches in the Netherlands. Located on the wild, undeveloped coastline of the former island of Voorne, this beach offers dogs complete freedom to run, swim, and play every day of the year without any time restrictions. The beach is wide, natural, and backed by pristine dunes — a stark contrast to the more developed beaches further north. Dogs are allowed off-leash everywhere except within the orange-marked bird breeding areas, though a designated path runs alongside these areas so you can still enjoy a pleasant walk. The beach is approximately 700 metres from the main parking area at pavilion Aan Zee at the end of Strandweg. This walk through the dunes is part of the experience and is itself a beautiful route. The former autostrand has a wilder, more rugged character than typical Dutch beaches, with good waves and plenty of natural features for dogs to explore. The area is also popular with kite surfers, adding to the dynamic atmosphere. Being part of the municipality of Voorne aan Zee, the beach benefits from the area's generally dog-friendly policies. The Slikken van Voorne nature reserve is nearby for additional walks, though dogs must be on leash there.

Den Haag, Netherlands

Kijkduin Hondenstrand is one of the most popular dedicated dog beaches in the Den Haag region, offering year-round off-leash access on the southern section of the beach from strandslag (beach entrance) 2 all the way south to the Monster border. This permanent dog beach requires no seasonal restrictions — your dog can run free here every single day of the year. The beach is part of the Zuiderstrand, the quieter southern stretch of The Hague's coastline, which has a more natural and relaxed character than the bustling Scheveningen to the north. During the off-season from October through mid-May, the entire Zuiderstrand opens up for off-leash dog walking, giving even more space to explore. The sand is wide and clean, and the gentle waves make it safe for dogs who love to swim. Parking is available at the Machiel Vrijenhoeklaan, which offers free parking spots between restaurant De Haagsche Beek and Roompot holiday park. From here it is a short walk to the dog beach section. The Kijkduin area has been recently redeveloped with a new coastal village called Nieuw Kijkduin, featuring restaurants, shops, and the Atlantic Hotel. Several beach pavilions including Suiderstrand serve food and drinks. The dunes behind the beach are part of the Westduinpark nature reserve, home to rare orchids and sand lizards, though dogs must be on leash in this protected area.