Scheveningen

A lively North Sea beach resort with a famous pier, seafood restaurants, and wide sandy beaches popular with both families and surfers. It offers quintessential Dutch seaside charm with buzzing beach clubs and a working fishing village atmosphere.

Things to do

• Scheveningen Pier — Walk or cycle across this iconic 380-metre wooden pier featuring restaurants, arcades, and observation decks with sweeping North Sea views.
• Beach Volleyball and Watersports — Join in casual beach volleyball games or rent equipment for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing at designated beach club zones.
• Sea Life Scheveningen — Explore this aquarium showcasing North Sea marine life, tropical species, and interactive touch pools suitable for families.
• Fish Auction and Fishing Harbour — Witness the working fishing village atmosphere at the historic harbour where daily fish auctions occur and trawlers dock with fresh catches.
• Beach Clubs and Sunset Swimming — Relax at trendy beach pavilions with loungers and DJs, or take an invigorating dip in the North Sea during summer months.
• Kurhaus Hotel and Promenade — Stroll the elegant Belle Époque seafront promenade lined with cafés, boutiques, and the landmark Kurhaus Hotel dating to 1885.

Food to try

• Kibbeling — Deep-fried battered fish pieces, typically cod or whiting, served with mayonnaise or curry sauce at beachside snack bars—a beloved Dutch seaside staple.
• Fresh Oysters and Mussels — Enjoy locally harvested oysters and mussels prepared simply with lemon or mignonette at seafood restaurants overlooking the beach.
• Paling (Smoked Eel) — Tender smoked eel served on toast with onions, a traditional Dutch delicacy particularly fresh from local fishing boats.
• Fish Soup (Vissoep) — Hearty North Sea fish soup made with local catches, vegetables, and cream, warming and locally prepared at traditional seafood eateries.
• Patat (Dutch Fries) with Satay Sauce — Thick-cut Belgian-style fries smothered in creamy peanut sauce (satay), a ubiquitous beachside snack enjoyed at casual vendors.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace the Gezelligheid — Scheveningen embodies the Dutch concept of gezelligheid—cosy conviviality—so linger at beach clubs, chat with locals, and soak in the relaxed seaside atmosphere rather than rushing through.
• Respect the Beach Culture — Dutch beachgoers are casual about swimwear and sunbathing; toplessness is common and unremarkable, so dress comfortably and don't be surprised by local norms.
• Visit the Fishing Harbour Early — Arrive at the working harbour by 6–7 am to witness the authentic fish auction and bustling dock activity before it quiets down mid-morning.
• Cycle Like a Local — Rent a bike to explore Scheveningen and the wider coastline; cycling is the primary transport mode and bike lanes are everywhere.