You might have noticed concrete bunkers in the dunes along The Hague’s coastline, ominously pointing out toward the sea. What’s up with these bunkers and why are they there in the first place?

The fortifications extending through most of the Dutch coast are part of the so-called Atlantic Wall, built by Nazi Germany. The project was supposed to extend from the Spanish border in the south, along the coast of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, right up to the Norwegian coast.

The defensive bunkers and walls didn’t do their job yet their remnants are a reminder of the not-so-distant past.

1942, the start of the Atlantic Wall

From 1939 to 1941, it seemed as if the victory of Nazi Germany was on the horizon.

The Lowlands and France were swiftly conquered in 1940, while Great Britain was undergoing a brutal blitz. Meanwhile, on the eastern front Operation Barbarossa kickstarted the invasion of the Soviet Union.

READ MORE | Stunning colourised footage of Rotterdam before WWII (video inside!)

Nevertheless, the Nazi leadership was wary of the possibility of a two-front invasion. With the Blitz in the UK stalling, and Stalingrad blocking Nazi advancement on the eastern front, there were concerns of a possible Allied invasion on the western seaboard.

The building of the Atlantic Wall

Constructions of the Atlantic Wall started in 1942 due to the fear of an invasion from the West.

Initially, it was called the New West Wall, but this didn’t have much of a ring to it so they changed its name to the Atlantic Wall for propaganda purposes.

Nazi Germany directed many resources to construct the Wall with up to half a million people working on it during its peak. The workers consisted of forced labourers from conquered countries, German soldiers, and professional builders from local communities.

The initial plans involved building 15,000 bunkers along the French, Belgian, and Dutch coasts. Due to limited resources, only 6,000 of those bunkers were finished by May 1, 1943.

In the Netherlands, the initial plan was to build 2,000 bunkers. Only 510 of those bunkers were completed.

Structures of the Atlantic Wall

These bunkers formed the Atlantic Wall out of independent structures in battle. The bunker was the main fortification found along the Atlantic Wall and there was a major variation of size depending on the strategic location along the coast.

The Wall also consisted of batteries containing anti-aircraft guns, radio installations, and storage facilities for ammunition and troops. The defences were connected through a series of underground trenches.

Beyond bunkers and trenches, fences, and natural barriers such as steep dunes were also established.

Demolitions along the Atlantic Wall

Building the Atlantic Wall proved to be a traumatic experience for the communities living alongside the coast.

In the Netherlands alone, hundreds of thousands of people had to relocate from their homes which had been demolished by the Wall — some never to return.

In The Hague, for example, the Nazis built a 10-kilometre-long stretch that was 500 metres wide to make an anti-tank ditch, demolishing several neighbourhoods.

They also destroyed many of the buildings alongside the main boulevard in Katwijk, including a historic fisherman’s quarter.

Nature was also hard-hit by the demolitions, excavating the dunes to build the wall. The Nazis cut forests down and destroyed thousands of hectares of farmland to build trenches and mines for the military.

Fall of the Atlantic Wall

From the get-go, the Atlantic Wall was more of a desperate attempt to prevent a Western invasion than it was a well-thought-out strategy. The Wall was, at best, a deterrent through propaganda meant to detract from an invasion.

READ MORE | Photo report: the Netherlands at war, 1940-1945

The failure of the Wall became evident with the Normandy Invasion by Western forces on June 6, 1944.

While some areas of the Wall proved to repel attacks for some time, both on the ground and in the air, allied forces breached the defences relatively fast.

Post-war Atlantic Wall

Many bunkers were demolished immediately after the war throughout the late 40s and the 50s in the Netherlands. More bunkers were demolished in the 60s in Zeeland and Zuid-Holland as they became a flooding hazard.

The Atlantic Wall nevertheless left its mark on the Netherlands and other countries. The ruins, ranging from bunkers to railways and sandpits, can be found all along the coast.

The Hague is one of the most distinct places where you can still see this heritage — not only in ruins scattered around but also in the city’s post-war development that emerged from the demolitions done to build the Atlantic Wall.

A brutal war, but Dutch heritage nonetheless

Immediately after the war, nobody wanted to see the Atlantic Wall for its historical significance, and for a good reason. Still, as years went by, people looked back at the Atlantic Wall not with horror but with historical curiosity and interest.

Towards the turn of the century, bunkers started to be excavated after many years under the sand. Some were open to the public as museums, the first and most notable bunker being the Atlantic Wall Museum in the Hook of Holland, which opened back in 1996.

READ MORE | The Polish army that helped free the Netherlands

Other initiatives were started in Scheveningen and IJmunden. Bunkers are also being excavated and reopened elsewhere.

Have you seen or visited any of the bunkers from the former Atlantic Wall? Let us know in the comments!

Feature Image: German Federal Archives/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2020 and was fully updated in May 2023 for your reading pleasure.

In Scheveningen, stately houses meet the laid-back atmosphere that comes with having the beach as your backyard. In short, it’s a must-sea (pardon the pun) on your travel list!

While Scheveningen technically forms part of The Hague, this coastal district has a very unique vibe and identity of its own.

So what should you do once you’ve got the sand between your toes? And where should you go after you’ve gotten your dose of vitamin sea?

These are my top picks for the best things to do in Scheveningen.

1. Hang ten at a gnarly surf lesson

Scheveningen is known as THE spot to go surfing in the Netherlands, so what better way to start your day there than by challenging the waves?

If you’ve never jumped on board in your life, don’t worry! Scheveningen is host to a number of surf schools and you can easily book a lesson. There are also surf camps organised for kids during the summer months.

Do you already have experience with surfing? Then swagger on over for a chat about the waves and rent some gear!

You can also try out other water sports like windsurfing. If you’re going to be in the Netherlands, why not make the most out of the infamous wind?

You’ll find Aloha, The Shore, and Hart Beach just a stone’s throw away from each other near the harbour, while Surf’s Cool is located on the pier. 

2. Refuel at Tigershark Coffee

To preserve those oh-so-cool surfing vibes and your energy, head to Tigershark Coffee.

You can find this cute little café at Badhuisstraat, a mere five-minute bike ride from Hart Beach and the other surf schools. 

It isn’t located at the beachfront or one of the main shopping streets which means Tigershark Coffee is a gem you wouldn’t encounter without knowing about it (you’re welkom.)

Their coffee, colourful decor, and friendly service are definitely worth the detour!

3. Take a hike into nature at Westduinpark

Some of us will simply never be able to navigate our way around the edges of a surfboard — or mount one. But this doesn’t mean Scheveningen can’t offer you something.

You can opt for a hike in one of the two parks on either side of Scheveningen: Westduinpark and Oostduinpark.

Westduinpark is one of the largest nature reserves in The Hague. It’s located close to the harbour and has several access points to Zuiderstrand — a more quiet and less touristy part of the beach.

For the history lovers, you can play a game of eye-spy and spot old partially uncovered WW2 bunkers.

READ MORE | Hiking in The Hague: 11 nature spots for the outdoor adventurer 

If you’re in need of some fuzzy relief, the park is also home to some magnificent Scottish Highland cows. Also, make sure that you go to the lookout point! 

4. Get your walking shoes and go to Oostduinpark

Oostduinpark is another beautiful park, located in the north of Scheveningen.

It forms part of a large nature area that stretches all the way to Katwijk beach and features some beautiful rugged nature, dunes, and even a lake!

There are many looking points from where you can get a beautiful view of the nature around you. Oostduinpark is also home to many fuzzy friends like sheep, rabbits, and deer.

If you want to explore it completely, we’d recommend going by bike.

5. Enjoy a gezellig lunch at the furthest corner of Scheveningen

Close to Oostduinpark you’ll find Het Puntje. It’s a cosy café at the northernmost point of Scheveningen.

They pride themselves on their down-to-Earth atmosphere, as their website puts it: “with us, there’s no fuss, but feet in the sand and the waves as background music” — how lovely! Het Puntje serves healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and of course, borrels!)

READ MORE | These are the 7 best places to get vegan food in The Hague in 2021 

Their menu follows the seasons and so do their opening hours — breakfast is always served from 9 AM, but closing times depend on the weather and the guests!

6. Go to De Pier and have a stroll along the boardwalk

Scheveningen is perhaps best known for its pier (with the crazy New Year’s Dive coming in as a close second) — and no wonder!

Inside, the landmark has restaurants, shops, and games, while on the outside it provides activities ready to meet the needs of any adrenaline junkie. 

Aside from its noticeable, ridiculously tall ferris wheel, De Pier also has a bungee jump tower, and a zipline so you can whoosh above the other ice-cream-eating visitors.

While the pier is a must-see, you shouldn’t underestimate the rest of the boardwalk! 

Remember to look around and admire the beautiful architecture of the Kurhaus, as well as the different statues placed along the beachfront. (Even if you’re busy fighting seagulls for the right to your fries).

If you’re facing the sea, make sure to turn to your left and see if you can spot the Rotterdam Port on a sunny day.

To end your adventurous day, stop by one of the beach bars where they have small fires keeping you warm on the night beach. 

7. Taste the North Sea and enjoy some kibbeling

Next up, time for some local flavour! It’s not a visit to the beach if you don’t assert your dominance over the sea by eating some fish.

Kibbeling is a Dutch delicacy (or, as close as it gets) consisting of battered, deep-fried fish. 

Before you get flashbacks to drunken nights at the snackbar and their everything-fried menu, rest assured that kibbeling contains actual quality ingredients.

When you order it in Scheveningen, the meat for your kibbeling is freshly caught cod from the North Sea — lekker!

8. Shop-amok at ‘De Fred’ in Statenkwartier

Dutch beaches have a lot to offer, but we are in the Netherlands, meaning it’ll get cold at some point.

So to round off your day after enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the beach, jump into a fresh change of clothes and experience the other side of Scheveningen! 

Once you move a little further in from the beach, you’ll come across some beautiful houses (that no doubt cost a little more than average). But do you know what expensive houses mean? Quality shopping streets! 

Frederik Hendriklaan (or ‘De Fred’ as it’s known by locals) is one of those. It’s located in the Statenkwartier and stands out with its beautiful Art Nouveau style.

READ MORE | 7 of the best free things to do in The Hague

De Fred is home to a varied selection of shops (for all budgets!), including a handful of small businesses, speciality stores, and nice cafés.

What better way to end your day in Scheveningen than by having dinner in this charming neighbourhood, resting your feet, and soaking up the last of the summer sun?

9. Walk through charming Oud Scheveningen

If you’re feeling tired but want to stretch your legs while discovering the charm of Scheveningen, visit the historical housing part of the area. 

Oud Scheveningen is a short five-minute walk from the Pier. Go down to Keizerstraat at the Fisherman’s Wife of Scheveningen statue (Vissersvrouw van Scheveningen monument). 

The neighbourhood is filled with stunning old fishermen’s houses, narrow cobbled streets, and blooming flowers everywhere. The people of Oud Scheveningen take great care and pride in keeping up the beauty of the neighbourhood. 

They even have their own emblem, look around and count how many Scheveningen flags you can spot!

The neighbourhood is also home to a small shopping street that’s home to small stores, cosy cafes, and delicious restaurants. 

10. Discover the forest of Scheveningen

Scheveningen has plenty of green spaces, including thick forests that are perfect to get lost in nature — did you know it was once the King’s hunting grounds?

The Scheveningen Bosjes is an easily accessible forest in the middle of the city. But once you go in, you will easily forget that the city is so close by.

There are hundreds of intertwining walking trails, cycling paths, and benches to take a well-needed break from the city.

Not alone? There are playgrounds scattered throughout the forest for children to play and dedicated open spaces for dogs to run off-leash.

11. Pack your picnic basket and head to the park

Westbroekpark is a large open park perfect for a picnic. There are big open green spaces to lay out your picnic blanket and playgrounds for kids to swing around from.

For unforgettable memories, you can rent rowboats with friends and family and explore the park through the beautiful canal.

READ MORE | A guide to 11 beautiful national parks in the Netherlands

You can also admire the beautiful flowers blooming throughout the park. From June to November, the park features a gorgeous Rosarium, a rose garden, with over 20,000 roses in bloom.

12. Go see the fascinating sea creatures at SEALIFE

Cool off and spend a few hours discovering the beautiful sea creatures inhabiting the our oceans at SEA LIFE, located right on Scheveningen’s stunning beach boulevard.

READ MORE | There’s plenty of fish in the sea! Learn all about them at SEA LIFE in Scheveningen

With over 45 aquariums, you will meet all kinds of animals: from fascinating sea turtles, jellyfish, and piranhas to adorable penguins and otters. Zo lief!

There’s even a sea tunnel where you’ll feel like you’re walking on the bottom of the ocean, right under sharks, turtles, and all kinds of fish!

13. Take a break and visit the Kunstmuseum Den Haag

Art lovers should visit the Kunstmuseum Den Haag, one of Europe’s largest art museums, where you’ll find a diverse collection of art with more than 160,000 pieces of work.

The museum also has rotating exhibitions from various artists such as Maurits Cornelis Escher, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet. 

Discover the famous artist Piet Mondrian and his art at the museum. The Kunstmuseum Den Haag is the international home to Piet Mondrian’s works of art with 300 of his pieces at the museum.

There are also often workshops organised for children to explore their creativity and learn about Dutch art through painting and pottery.

Children under 18 can discover the art museum for free.

14. Immerse yourself in the science of our world

Right next to the art museum is The Museon Omniversum. The family-friendly interactive science museum teaches all about the world and the environment.

You’ll easily get lost in time and spend hours at the place between the exhibitions, films, and laboratories. 

During the day, the museum is packed with interactive activities to learn and inspire about how to commit to a liveable Earth for all. In the evenings of Thursday to Sunday, the museum screens films on nature, culture, music, and science in a theatre.

There constantly are new exhibitions on fascinating topics such as dinosaurs, space travel, and climate change.

Children up to three years old get free entrance and children up to 11 years old can get a discounted fee of €14.00.

15. Explore the picturesque harbour

Stretching for almost five kilometres, you’ll never run out of things to do in Scheveningen. Here are the last few little things to see and enjoy while discovering the beach.

Make sure to take a stroll along the Scheveningen harbour (Haven). You can daydream about owning a boat while having a look at the small private boats docked at the marina. 

READ MORE | 29 awesome things to do in The Hague in 2022

On either side of the harbour, there are two small green and red lighthouses on each side. You can walk along the jetty and feel the seaside wind. You’ll usually also find a few people fishing.

16. Go stargazing above the sea

If you’re a fellow stargazing lover, The Hague offers a perfect spot for you. 

Although it’s just outside of Scheveningen, the Celestial Vault in Kijkduin is super close by, right next to Westduinpark. 

This unique spot is an artificially-made crater to block out all artificial light coming from the city. Artist James Turrell created the huge crater which boasts walls up to five metres high at the top of a dune. 

The floor is covered in grass, making it perfect to lie down and spot the constellations of the night sky.

Make sure to pack a thick blanket and some warm chocomel and you’ll be all ready to go.

17. Learn about the history and culture of Scheveningen

On the colder windy days, there are many museums scattered throughout Scheveningen.

For those curious about the history and culture of the neighbourhood, stop by the Muzee Scheveningen.

You can learn all about the history of Scheveningen and life at sea, including the old fishing culture and other Scheveningen staple professions. 

READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 14 great museums to visit in Leiden

Located in a traditional old school building, learn about the traditions and distinct culture that characterise this community with deep roots.

Children up to 12 years old can get in for free.

18. Spend the afternoon at the thrilling LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre

Bring the kids along to the LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre, a few metres away from the pier, for a day full of dream-worthy LEGO® activities.

Hop on a train through a life-sized LEGO® city, dodge the lasers at NINJAGO® training, and watch an action-packed 4D film in the cinema. Not to mention the endless amounts of LEGO® builds just waiting for you.

READ MORE | We went to LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre and it was the most fun we ever had as adults (and the kids liked it too!) 

The LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre also features a gorgeous LEGO® replica of The Hague, with trams, bikes, and zip lines — how cool!

Here’s a little tip, you can get a special deal if you want to go to both the LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE. Or, go on a weekday and spend longer there for the same price.

There are lots of things to do in Scheveningen, especially in the summer, but this is our take on how to spend a perfect day in the district. Hopefully, some of it will tickle your fancy too.

Have you already been to Scheveningen? What are your favourite things to do? Tell us in the comments below! 

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in July 2021, and was fully updated in August 2023 for your reading pleasure.

Loving the busy city that is The Hague, but still craving a wander in the great outdoors every now and then? Well, you’re in luck! There is a wide range of hiking routes and nature spots right at your doorstep. 

We’ve got the ultimate guide for nature lovers, whether you’re looking to do a hike through the forest, or a ramble through The Hague’s beautiful gardens — you’ve come to the right place! 

1. Westduinpark: where forests and dunes meet

This is one for those that like a challenge, Westduinpark is known for its natural beauty and hilly terrain. Located on the west coast of The Hague, it can be found between the beachy shores of Scheveningen and Kijkduin.

The area used to be a favourite hunting ground for the royal House of Orange. Nowadays, its main inhabitants are Scottish highland cows and sheep that roam freely through the dunes.

As the city’s largest nature reserve, Westduinpark makes up 235 hectares of open space along with the Bosjes van Poot. It’s perfect for the outdoor adventurer as it offers a range of hiking, walking, and cycling routes.

If you’re looking for a historical hike, you can follow the extensive system of underground passageways and bunkers left from the Second World War. Otherwise, you can follow the Nederlands Kustpad (The Dutch Coastal Path) for a beautiful hike with a view of the sea.

2. Park Clingendael: English landscape in the Netherlands

Sitting between The Hague and Wassenaar, Park Clingendael is one of the most beautiful country estates in the country. Known for its blend of English and Dutch landscaping, the national park is also home to a Japanese Garden.

Accessible all year round, this park makes for a great day trip destination with its open landscape and winding walking routes. 

READ NEXT | Hiking Amsterdam: the top 7 places for wandelen near the city

This park provides paths for the leisurely wanderer, as well as experienced hikers. Take a stroll through the picturesque grounds passing embassies and stately homes, or extend your hike out to the rugged dunes of Meijendel or Westduinpark that frame The Hague. 

3. Meijendel: the more dunes, the merrier

After a lovely lunch in Park Clingendael, you might decide to walk it off in some slightly wilder scenery. If this sounds like the perfect afternoon to you, you’ll love Meijendel, just across the freeway on the western side of Clingendael. 

Meijendel is the largest area of dunes in South Holland, stretching across Scheveningen, The Hague, and Wassenaar. It boasts miles of forests, beaches, and water features. Because of its close proximity to the bustling city, it’s a favourite for Hague-dwelling hikers. 

4. Scheveningen: The Hague’s very own beach

What could be better than a city with a beach? Maybe cocktails on said beach. But if you’re not feeling a drink, there is plenty to do on this kilometre-long stretch of sand. This is the perfect spot if you fancy a sandy stroll, or want to watch the sunset beyond the sea. (we would highly recommend doing this, even in winter.)

From the harbour to Oestduinpark, there is a nice short route for a midday stroll. If you are looking for a more challenging trail, you can extend your hike out to the Meijendel area, where you can follow the coastline all the way to Noordwijk. 

5. Scheveningse Bosje: a forest in the centre of The Hague

Would love a walk in the forest but don’t want to trek too far from the city centre? Scheveningse Bosje has got you covered. The bosje is located in the Scheveningen district of The Hague.

It is part of the Cityduinpark initiative, aimed at connecting various green areas around the city. Perfect for a stroll while you’re on your lunch break or a longer hiking route if you’ve got more time to spare.

6. Palace gardens: a very royal walk

These gardens are a great spot if you fancy a short walk. Originally known as the Princess Gardens, this is the King’s backyard. Next to the Noordeinde Palace, the gardens are the perfect place for an afternoon stroll or for a spot of sunbathing.

If you want to take advantage of a sunny day and have a picnic, you can even buy picnic baskets at the Hofkwartier (Court Quarter) if you’re feeling fancy.

READ NEXT | Hiking trails in Maastricht: 7 top routes for a walk in the wild

7. Malieveld: a walk with the best pancakes in The Hague

Don’t have time to venture out of town? Malieveld is the place for you. With ten hectares of lawn space, it’s the largest outdoor space in the centre of The Hague.

Not only is it the site known for hosting multiple music festivals and holiday events, but it also houses the famous Pavillion Malieveld. Standing since 1941, the eatery is known for its range of traditional Dutch pancakes and sweet treats, from poffertjes to Old-Dutch waffles. 

As well as a great spot for pancakes in the park, Malevield poses as the perfect place for experienced hikers to break off from the leisurely strollers. If you’re looking for more than a midday wander, it’s a great starting point for a long walk through the Haagse Bos. 

8. Haagse Bos: a wander through fresh forests

Originally part of Malieveld, the Haagse Bos forest sits right on the park’s border. It’s one of the oldest forests in the Netherlands and is closely linked to the history of The Hague.

Being about 100 hectares in size, it stretches from Malieveld to the municipality where the King used to hang his hat, Wassenaar. It’s perfect for a run, a walk, or maybe even a paddle. 

9. Wassenaar: a town fit for Kings

Think the town of Wassenaar is beautiful? You’re in good company. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima lived in the Eikenhorst estate in Voorschoten until 2019, which is only a stone’s throw away.

The village itself houses a classic Dutch windmill and is perfect for a gezellig day trip, but it’s also surrounded by woodland areas ready for the seasoned rambler. 

READ MORE | Hiking in the Netherlands: 4 myths, busted

South of the town centre of Wassenaar, you can find a vast stretch of forests and nature reserves around the Landgoed De Horsten area — perfect for the avid hiker.

This luscious patch of natural beauty stretches almost 10 kilometres, including the designated hiking area of Molenpad. There are so many hidden gems to discover, including a nordic hut blasting classical music for the pleasure of passers-by. 

10. Zuiderpark: Go for a walk, a swim or a skate

Another spot that’s perfect for a lunchtime stroll. One of the most popular parks in The Hague, Zuiderpark has been providing fun for the whole family since the 1920s. But serious walkers can pick up the pace as a loop around the park will set you up for a good six-kilometre hike.

Not only does it contain a state-of-the-art skate park, but also has great facilities for children. A prime place to take the little ones for a walk, Zuiderpark contains a nature playground, where kids can let off steam while getting to grips with the natural landscape.

Whether that’s playing in the mud, or building a treehouse in the forest. There is also a stream that is safe to walk in, so get those wellies out!

11. Vlietland: visit the Randstad’s riviera

If you want to get away from the crowds and are a watersports enthusiast, we present Vlietland. The park is a 20-minute cycle from The Hague, making it the perfect location for a day trip.

With 300 hectares of space, it’s the largest water-based natural area in the Netherlands. If swimming is not your thing, never fear, as Vlietland is surrounded by forests and spots for sunbathing (when you’re lucky enough to catch the Dutch sun).

So there we have it — you are now armed with 11 hiking routes and nature spots near The Hague. If you’re tired from all that walking, there are loads of other cool free things you can do in The Hague (a good alternative when you get a typically Dutch rainy day).

Know any other good spots for a hike around The Hague? Tell us in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in April 2021, and was fully updated in September 2022 for your reading pleasure.

Scheveningen is the coastal district of the Hague and an all-time favourite with Dutchies and tourists alike.

In the dead of winter, you’ll see people solemnly walking their dogs along the water, and in the summer, you’ll hear enough German to believe you’ve crossed borders in your sleep.

This sandy part of town has something to offer for everyone — including those strapped for cash (ahem, us). So, let’s have a look at our favourite things to do for free in Scheveningen.

1. Take a walk along the beach

We are kicking off our list of free things to do in Scheveningen with a classic: taking a long walk along the beach!

All you need is yourself and a good pair of shoes — and, in the summertime, you can even ditch the shoes. You can go with a group of friends or simply enjoy the coast on your own!

In the cold winter months, it feels natural to stay indoors where it’s warmer, but winter is no excuse to skip nature! It’s fun and relaxing any time of the year, especially by the sea.

You can either take a relaxing walk or challenge yourself with a little something such as visiting the dunes. There are plenty of things to do if you put your time and mind into it. And to keep it free, don’t forget to pack a thermos of coffee and sandwiches to gobble up during your stay — you can even make a picnic out of it.

Is the sun shining and all is nice and warm? Then you know what to do.

Do you have a dog? Take your beloved pet with you to enjoy the outdoors as well. Make this a perfect day for both (or three or more) of you.

READ MORE | Uitwaaien: the Dutch invention you never knew you needed, until now

2. Go bird watching

Here is something that doesn’t easily come to mind: bird watching. Despite the general idea, bird watching is neither old-fashioned nor boring! It’s not only a relaxing activity but also something you can do anytime and anywhere. All you need is your enthusiasm and interest (Okay, and maybe binoculars).

If you like the idea, grab your bird food and come to Scheveningen because there is no better time to watch the birds than wintertime. In colder months, seabirds hibernate right off the coast and the beaches being calmer makes it safer for birds to chirp around freely.

Some of the birds you can come across are songbirds and birds of prey, to name a few. Plus, how can you forget about the seagulls? They are usually less popular with Scheveningen because, as we all know, they can get quite noisy, but for nature photos they are great! They sit still for a long time and are easy to approach (again, some bird food would do the trick). 

If you want to spot more birds, you can also look for the tranquillity of the dunes. A good chance to improve your photography as well!

In short, come over and give it a try. Who knows, maybe this will become your lifelong hobby.

3. Take photos

Speaking of bird watching, how can we miss out on photography? You don’t need a fancy camera to join in the fun even your phone will do.

Also, forget about whether you are serious about it or not. It’s about enjoying yourself. With calm beaches, rolling waves and a beautiful view any time of the day, nothing is easier than getting some inspiration.

If you have been following us for some time, then you must know that we love our photo reports! And, it’s no surprise that Scheveningen is one of our staple locations to post. We call it our favourite beach town for a reason!

4. Have a picnic

A thermos of coffee or maybe even some gluhwein, some cheese (or a lot of cheese), sandwiches and music to set the atmosphere is all you need for your little picnic by the sea. If you want to be on the safer side, it might be a good idea to add a few extras like hand warmers, warm rugs, or lightweight fleece throws.

Winter picnic check-list: 

5. Run for fun!

Our last item on our “free things to do in Scheveningen” list is nothing but good old running! Breathe in the fresh air and kick some miles while you are at it.

Running brings so many benefits: it improves your mood, stimulates your brain, and enhances your overall well-being! Combine that with the beautiful view of the Dutch coast and just imagine all the wonders it can do for you!

Whichever activity you choose, it’ll be the perfect way to end the summer season and get in the spirit of winter!

Which one of the “5 free things to do in Scheveningen” is your favourite? Tell us in the comments below!

Yesterday, the body of the fifth surfer who died at Scheveningen on May 11 was recovered from the sea. An investigation from the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) has shown that the conditions that day were exceptional. 

On 11 May, five surfers died during exceptional weather conditions while surfing at Scheveningen. Two bodies were taken out of the water the same day, and two more the following day. It has taken until yesterday to locate the fifth.

As of today, the NIOZ has released the results of its investigation into the weather conditions that day. It does not attempt to explain why the surfers died, merely to explain why the weather conditions were so bad that day.

Onderzoek: grote hoeveelheid algenschuim en harde winde werd surfers fataal (beelden van later die week) #scheveningen pic.twitter.com/obkHgfR6Is

— John van der Tol (@johnvandertol) June 5, 2020

What caused the foam?

The main factor was the unusual level of algae in the water that day. Combined with high winds and a strong current, a meter thick layer of foam was created on top of the sea. The layer was created by Phaeocystis globosa: an alga that blooms at this time of the year. It releases protein, which foams up like milk for coffee if there is wind and a strong current.

According to Pat Smith, night mayor of The Hague, who is a surfer and an acquaintance of the victims, foam by itself is not usually a problem for experienced surfers.

“The elements turned against them, because the wind direction changed very quickly.” He called the accident “bad luck”. Experienced surfer Chris Way described surfing foam as “a kind of maze without an exit.”

Feature Image: Abuzer Van Leeuwen/Supplied

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Scheveningen: your guide to sizzling hot celebrations and cold-as-ice events in our favorite beachtown.

When it comes to celebrating the arrival of a new year each country has its own traditions. And a good bunch of the ‘Oud & Nieuw’ traditions are happening in the beautiful beach town in Scheveningen. It’s a song of fire and ice over there and it’s what makes it one of the places to be when we finally say sayonara to the year of 2018 and laud in 2019.

The New Year’s bonfire at Scheveningen beach

Sometimes the best traditions to enjoy are the simplest ones. The big bonfire at Scheveningen beach is certainly one of those celebrations that’s just simple but oh so magnificent as well.

This is what is happening in Scheveningen with New Year’s Eve: the people stack a huge amount of pallets on top of each other, enough to make it to the Guinnes Book of Records. A tower of well over 30 meters high and over 4000 cubic meters in total is set on fire, creating a jaw-dropping fire that puts Burning Man to shame.

Since Schevingen apparently has a love affair with huge fires there are two (!) bonfires every New Year’s Eve in Scheveningen competing for the highest and most badass fire in the world. Traditionally there’s one set ablaze North of the harbor on the (conveniently named) North Beach and there’s one more a bit to the South in Duindorp (officially The Hague, but borders are vague in this area). Last year, Duindorp slightly exceeded Scheveningen in the height of the fire, (but not in volume – however they may measure that). This year’s bonfires will probably hit their maximum allowed height limits of 35 meters.

For the last 3 years, these bonfires have been declared as an official part of the national heritage of the Dutch. So hey, you’re even participating in a cultural event when you watch one of the bonfires burn right around midnight.

Here’s some more background info (and more importantly FIRE)

You know what would really work well with a big old fire at New Year’s Eve?

Fireworks shows in Scheveningen

Public fireworks shows are actually not that common in the Netherlands at New Year’s Eve. For the Dutchies it’s more of a thing to light it up themselves. This tradition is more and more criticized each year since it can create dangerous situations in which people are ending up getting hurt. Luckily Scheveningen organizes a public fireworks show for the people: there will be a wide variety of performing artists, DJ’s and some specialists flown in from to bring you an awesome fireworks show!

However, it doesn’t look like this year there’s something official on the 31st of December. We’re sure that there must something organized on the 31st though, and otherwise there’s always the fireworksshow at the Hofvijver in The Hague.

“Bonfires, fireworks, probably some glasses of champagne   – Can we cool and come down on New Year’s day?”

The New Year’s Surf!

Surf’s up! At 11.00 o’clock on the 1st of January 2018 (still a bit weird to say 2018 right?) Hart’s Beach is organizing another edition of the New Year’s Surf! They’ve got some free Quicksilver Beanies waiting for those hero’s who are so daring to get out there, into the sea and onto a surfboard.

They’ve also got some boards and wetsuits there waiting for you and are also calling for you to bring as many ridonculous accessories as you can (hello inflatable flamingo!). Afterwards, there’s a nice little breakfast waiting for you and a cozy fire.

Best to send them a message so they can keep a spot open for you, here’s their Facebook event.

And of course, there can also one event in Scheveningen on New Year’s Day that keeps making the headlines all over the world. I’m talking of course about the:

The New Year’s Dive!

Thousands of people all across the Netherlands take a little-bit-crazy pill on New Year’s day and flock to a beach or lake in the country to jump into the cold-as-ice water. Yes! It’s that one tradition you’ve probably seen before you came to the Netherlands.

A tradition with even its own aftermovie!

Since the 1960’s Dutch people having been throwing themselves in the ‘steenkoude’ water at the first of January, and this year alone saw more than 50.000 people take a dive at over a 100 locations all around the Netherlands. The quintessential ‘nieuwjaarsduik’ spot is always Scheveningen, around 10.000 people hurdle themselves into the cold North Sea.

“For the love of warm feet why DutchReview? WHY!?”

You should know by now that the Dutch cling on to certain traditions and this is definitely one of them. Some people are ‘sponsored’ and take a dive for charity, some people do it for ‘health’ reasons – but it’s a fair guess that the majority of the people participating either made drunk wagers the night before or are perhaps still a bit blitzed. And admittedly, besides the blinding cold its good fun to get in there with your mates!

Participating in this event is totally possible! It costs 3 euro’s and it’s organized by the people that bring you that fine Dutch smoked sausage! All profits go to charity and you’ll also get a can of traditional erwtensoep (yummy Dutch split pea soup) and souvenir-orange beanie.

PS. Before I forget, besides celebrating New Year’s Eve in Scheveningen there’s tons of things to do in Scheveningen in the winter and unlimited opportunities for some classy pictures of the beach town.

PS2. We made a little movie about New Year’s Eve in the Netherlands, both the bonfire and the dive are present:

Feat pic: A. Fritze/CC/wikipedia/flickr