Oosterschelde National Park

Oosterschelde Nationaal Park

Oosterschelde is a large estuary and marine national park offering excellent opportunities for sailing, water sports, and observing seal colonies and migratory birds. The park is part of the Delta Works water management system and offers a unique interface of water, tidal flats, and human habitation.

Things to do

• Sailing and windsurfing — Take advantage of the estuary's strong tidal currents and open waters for world-class sailing and windsurfing conditions year-round.
• Seal spotting at Bommelerwaard — Visit the shallow waters and sandbanks where grey and harbour seals haul out, particularly visible during low tide from observation points along the park.
• Bird watching migrations — Observe thousands of migratory birds during spring and autumn passages, including spoonbills, avocets, and dark-bellied brent geese.
• Mudflat walking (Wadlopen) — Guided walks across the tidal flats at low tide reveal unique ecosystems and are a traditional Dutch experience in shallow water areas.
• Visit Neeltje Jans Delta Works — Explore this interactive water management museum and former artificial island showcasing the famous Delta Works storm surge barrier system.
• Kayaking through tidal channels — Paddle through narrow waterways and reed beds to experience the estuary's wildlife and landscape from water level.
• Cycling the Delta route — Ride the scenic cycleways connecting villages around the park's perimeter, with views of water, wetlands, and traditional Dutch settlements.

Food to try

• Fresh oysters and mussels — Sample locally harvested oysters and mussels from the Oosterschelde waters, often served raw or grilled at waterfront restaurants.
• Paling (smoked eel) — Try this regional specialty of smoked eel, a traditional delicacy prepared locally and served with bread and mustard.
• Kibbeling — Enjoy deep-fried fish pieces, typically cod or sole, served with lemon and mayonnaise at local fish stands and seafood restaurants.
• Waterland cheese — Taste cheese from nearby Waterland farms, often paired with local bread at village markets and dining establishments.
• Seafood platters at harborside eateries — Order combination platters featuring shrimp, crab, and fish preparations at restaurants overlooking the estuary.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect tidal schedules — Plan activities around tide times as the Oosterschelde's dramatic tidal range of up to 1.5 meters significantly affects water access and mudflat visibility.
• Join locals at waterfront cafés — Visit traditional waterfront pavilions (strandpaviljoens) where residents gather for coffee, drinks, and meals with waterfront views, especially on weekends.
• Learn about Delta Works heritage — Understand the region's relationship with water management and flood prevention, which defines the landscape and local identity shaped by centuries of battling the sea.
• Support sustainable fishing practices — Choose restaurants and shops that source from sustainable fisheries, as the Oosterschelde ecosystem is carefully managed for both human use and conservation.