Scheveningen Beach Travel Guide: Top Things to Do & See in The Hague’s Coastal Gem

As your tour guide, let me take you to one of the Netherlands’ most beloved seaside getaways—Scheveningen Beach. Located just a few kilometers from The Hague, Scheveningen is a vibrant blend of sun, sea, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re coming for a lazy beach day, a culinary feast, or to catch a stunning North Sea sunset, this iconic destination has something for everyone.
 

📍 Quick Facts About Scheveningen Beach

Location: District of The Hague, South Holland, Netherlands

Distance from The Hague: ~15 minutes by tram or car

Length: Approximately 3 km of sandy beach

Best Season: May to September for warm weather activities

Main Attractions: The Pier, Kurhaus, Sea Life, Sculpture Museum, and more

🗺️ How to Get to Scheveningen Beach

Scheveningen is easily accessible from The Hague, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam.

🚆 By Public Transport

From The Hague Central Station: Take Tram 1 or 9 straight to Scheveningen.

From Amsterdam: Take a train to The Hague, then transfer to tram or bus.

🚗 By Car

Parking is available in underground garages near the promenade, such as Parking Kurhaus or Parking Scheveningen Strand.

🚴 By Bike

The Netherlands is bike-friendly! Enjoy a scenic cycle path from The Hague to the beach.

🌟 Top Things to Do at Scheveningen Beach

🏖️ 1. Relax on the Sandy Beach

The wide, clean beach offers space to sunbathe, swim, or build sandcastles. During summer, Scheveningen transforms into a lively spot with beach bars (strandtenten), lounge chairs, and volleyball courts.

Beach chairs and parasols available for rent

Lifeguards present during peak season

🎡 2. Walk Along the Scheveningen Pier

A highlight of the area, the Pier stretches out into the North Sea with restaurants, shops, and attractions along the way. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views or try some thrill-seeking activities.

Don’t Miss:

Bungy Jumping or Ziplining from the tower

SkyView de Pier: A Ferris wheel offering incredible views over the sea

🏨 3. Admire the Historic Kurhaus Hotel

This grand 19th-century building is an icon of Scheveningen. Once a concert hall and now a luxury hotel, the Kurhaus is a landmark of Dutch coastal elegance.

Perfect for high tea or a classy evening drink

Often hosts art exhibits and classical concerts

🐠 4. Visit Sea Life Scheveningen

A family favorite, Sea Life lets you explore marine ecosystems from the North Sea to tropical reefs. See sharks, rays, jellyfish, and playful otters.

Educational and fun for kids

Interactive exhibits and feeding shows

🎨 5. Explore the Beelden aan Zee Sculpture Museum

Tucked under the dunes, this unique art museum focuses on sculpture. The outdoor terrace features whimsical statues, including the popular "Fairy Tale Sculptures by the Sea".

Inspiring mix of modern and classical art

Panoramic sea views from the rooftop terrace

🏄 6. Try Water Sports and Activities

Scheveningen is a hub for active travelers. You can surf, kitesurf, paddleboard, or even learn how to sail.

Surf schools offer equipment rental and lessons

Great waves from spring to autumn

🥾 7. Dunes and Nature Trails

Behind the beach lies the Meijendel Dunes, part of a larger nature reserve perfect for walking and biking. Expect peaceful paths, scenic lakes, and local wildlife.

Entry is free

Great for a nature escape just minutes from the city

🍽️ Best Places to Eat & Drink at Scheveningen Beach

From beach bars to fine dining, Scheveningen’s food scene is as refreshing as the sea breeze.

🌊 Beachfront Dining

De Waterreus – Seafood and sunset views

Beachclub Indigo – Colorful, laid-back vibes

Zeezicht – A long-time favorite for fish & chips

🍽️ Trendy Restaurants

Catch by Simonis – Upscale seafood with terrace seating

The Fat Mermaid – Instagrammable dishes, cocktails, and decor

Encore by Simonis – Sushi and Asian fusion in style

🍻 For Drinks and Nightlife

Crazy Pianos – Lively bar with dueling pianos and dancing

Whoosah Beachclub – A chill vibe by day, a party scene by night

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Scheveningen Beach

Tip: For the warmest water and buzzing energy, visit from July to early September.

🎉 Seasonal Events and Festivals

Vlaggetjesdag (June) – Celebrate the arrival of the first herring with music and ships

Scheveningen International Fireworks Festival (August) – Stunning firework displays over the sea

Live on the Beach Concerts (Summer) – Big-name artists perform near the pier

New Year’s Day Swim (January 1st) – Brave thousands dive into the freezing North Sea

🏨 Where to Stay in Scheveningen

🏆 Luxury

Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus – Iconic 5-star with beachfront views

Badhotel Scheveningen – Elegant and close to both beach and city

👪 Family-Friendly

Carlton Beach Hotel – Beachfront, indoor pool, kid-friendly

Hotel Aquarius – Budget-friendly and welcoming

💰 Budget

Jorplace Beach Hostel – Youthful, relaxed atmosphere

easyHotel The Hague Scheveningen Beach – Clean and affordable

📷 Instagram-Worthy Spots at Scheveningen Beach

Ferris wheel at sunset

Reflection of the Kurhaus in the wet sand

Sand art and beach sculptures

Surfers catching waves

Rooftop shots from Beelden aan Zee terrace

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Activities

Visit Sea Life

Build sandcastles or rent a beach wagon

Ride the mini train (Tourist Tram) in summer

Explore the Kinderboekenmuseum (Children’s Book Museum) nearby in The Hague

🧳 What to Pack for Scheveningen Beach

Swimsuit and beach towel (in summer)

Windbreaker or light jacket (it’s breezy!)

Sunglasses and sunscreen

Comfortable shoes for walking or cycling

A camera or phone for seaside photos

✅ Tips for Visiting Scheveningen Beach

Arrive early in summer – Parking fills up quickly

Dress in layers – It can be windy even on sunny days

Use contactless cards or mobile payments – Most beach clubs accept them

Bring a reusable water bottle – Tap water in the Netherlands is safe

Stay late – Sunset by the North Sea is unforgettable

🌍 Combine With Nearby Attractions

Since you're already in The Hague, why not explore:

Madurodam – Miniature park with Dutch landmarks

Peace Palace – Seat of international law and architecture

Mauritshuis Museum – Home to Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring”

Binnenhof – Dutch Parliament buildings and lakeside views

🧠 Fun Facts About Scheveningen

The beach once hosted beach battles in WWII history, and you can still see bunkers hidden in the dunes.

The Dutch royal family is known to visit the area during summer.

“Scheveningen” was famously used as a linguistic password in WWII to identify native Dutch speakers.

✨ Why Visit Scheveningen Beach?

From golden sands to gourmet meals, from art and history to adventure and nightlife—Scheveningen Beach offers more than just a day at the seaside. It’s a place where the Dutch coastline meets cosmopolitan flair, where every traveler—from families to surfers—can find their slice of joy.