Rotterdam's beaches

Hoek van Holland has a large beach and beautiful dune area. You can relax sunbathing and walking there. And for those who just like to get a breath of fresh air, it is ´beach weather´ even when the wind is brisk! Near the Badweg and the Zeekant are the most facilities for visitors. Here you will find most of the beach pavilions and stores, but also toilets, showers, parking spaces and of course a first aid post and lifeguard. Beach wheelchairs are also available here.

The beach in Nesselande is a perfect alternative to crowded coastal destinations during the summer months. At the Zevenhuizerplas, swimming areas are clearly separated from zones for water sports, making it a safe spot for windsurfing, sailing, diving, and rowing. Along the Siciliëboulevard and Maltaplein, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, ice cream parlors, supermarkets, and drugstores—perfect for grabbing essentials like sunscreen!

The Maasvlaktestrand (beach) offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and a trip can be combined with a visit to the interactive experience centre about the port of Rotterdam: Portlantis. On the beach, enjoy the tranquility and space for swimming, sunbathing and walking. The latter is also allowed with the dog, provided it is on a leash. At the northernmost entrance to the beach, a 500-meter strip is reserved for nude recreation. On the sport beach to the north, live it up with a kite, surfboard or cast a fishing rod. The new beach is easily accessible by car and bicycle and has seasonal catering facilities. Several free parking lots are also available.

The Kralingse Bos, Rotterdam's largest city park, extends over about 250 hectares, with a harmonious balance of water, forest and open spaces. A small beach can also be found at the Kralingse Plas. There is also playground equipment for children, restaurants and public toilets. 

Along the Nieuwe Maas, you can find some peaceful sandy beaches. Although the current in the river is too strong for swimming, these beaches provide a perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy a good book. The beach at De Esch is located near the water basins of the water company, where you can walk through nature and spot birds.

There is also a small, peaceful beach at the Quarantine Area on Heijplaat along the Nieuwe Maas, known for its unique historical and natural surroundings. The area was established in 1934 as a quarantine site for seafarers, though this function was never actually used. The beach offers a beautiful view of the Maas River. Although swimming is unsafe due to strong currents and ship traffic, it is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy nature.