Stately homes and the relaxed attitude that comes with having the beach in your backyard coexist in Scheveningen. In a nutshell, it should definitely be on your summer travel itinerary! These are the greatest things to do in Scheveningen, in my opinion.
1. Hang ten during a brutal surfing lesson
What better way to start your day in Scheveningen than by taking on the waves, which is the place to go surfing in the Netherlands? Don’t worry if you’ve never gotten on a plane before! There are many surf schools in Scheveningen, and you can easily schedule a session.
Do you already have surfing experience? Then stroll over for a discussion about the waves and to borrow some equipment! Other water activities, including windsurfing, are also an option. Why not take advantage of the infamous wind while you’re in the Netherlands?
Around the harbor, Aloha, The Shore, and Hart Beach are all within a short distance of one another, while Surf’s Cool is on the pier.
2. Go on a trek! — in Westduinpark’s natural setting
Some of us will never be able to mount or even maneuver around the edges of a surfboard. Scheveningen can nevertheless provide for you, despite this. You might choose to go on a hike in one of the two parks, Westduinpark or Oostduinpark, located on each side of Scheveningen.
One of The Hague’s biggest nature preserves is Westduinpark. It is situated close to the harbor and offers a number of entryways to Zuiderstrand, a less busy and more tranquil section of the beach.
For history buffs, you can play eye-spy and look for old, partially exposed World War II bunkers. The park is also home to some gorgeous Scottish Highland cows if you need some fuzzy respite. Don’t forget to visit the lookout point as well!
3. Go to Oostduinpark in your walking shoes
Another lovely park, Oostduinpark, may be found to the north of Scheveningen. It’s a piece of a big natural area that extends all the way to Katwijk Beach and has gorgeous rocky scenery, dunes, and even a lake!
There are several vantage spots where you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding natural environment. Other furry animals found at Oostduinpark include sheep, bunnies, and deer.
4. Visit De Pier and wander the boardwalk there
Scheveningen’s pier is probably its most famous feature (the insane New Year’s Dive is a close second), and it makes sense why! The landmark features cafés, boutiques, and games on the inside while offering outside activities fit for any adrenaline addict.
De Pier boasts a zipline so you may soar above the other ice cream-eating tourists in addition to its noticeable, absurdly tall Ferris wheel. While the pier is a must-see, the rest of the boardwalk is also worth exploring!
Recall to take in the Kurhaus’ stunning architecture as well as the various statues erected along the shoreline, even if you’re busy defending your fries from birds. On a beautiful day, if you’re facing the sea, make sure to look to your left and try to view the Rotterdam Harbor.
5. Embrace some kibbeling and savor the North Sea
It’s time for some regional flavor next! If you don’t eat some fish when you’re at the beach, you’re not really at the beach. Fish that has been battered and deep-fried makes up the Dutch delicacy known as kibbeling.
Rest confident that kibbeling comprises genuine, high-quality ingredients before you have memories of wasted evenings at the snack bar and their everything-fried menu. The meat for your kibbeling is freshly caught cod from the North Sea when you order it in Scheveningen – lekker!
6. Wander through lovely Scheveningen Oud
Visit the neighborhood of the historic housing if you’re feeling fatigued but want to get some fresh air while exploring Scheveningen’s charm. The distance between the Pier and Oud Scheveningen is only five minutes. At the statue of the Fisherman’s Wife of Scheveningen, descend to Keizerstraat (Vissersvrouw van Scheveningen monument).
Beautiful ancient fishermen’s homes, winding cobblestone streets, and beautiful flowers can be found all around the neighborhood. The residents of Oud Scheveningen take considerable care and delight in maintaining the neighborhood’s attractiveness.
Take a peek around and see how many Scheveningen flags you can find; they even have their own insignia! Together with little shops, cozy cafes, and delectable eateries, the neighborhood has one small shopping street.
7. Go to one of the numerous museums
There are numerous museums spread out over Scheveningen during the cooler, windier days.
Visit the Muzee Scheveningen if you’re interested in learning more about the neighborhood’s history and culture. You may discover everything there is to know about Scheveningen’s past, including information about the town’s long history of fishing and other enduring industries.
Art enthusiasts should pay a visit to the Kunstmuseum Den Haag, which houses a diverse collection of artwork totaling more than 160,000 items. The museum also features a variety of artists’ changing exhibitions, including Escher and Pablo Picasso.
The Museon Omniversum is a museum located close to the art gallery. It is a kid-friendly, interactive science museum that focuses on the global environment. With the exhibits, movies, and laboratories, the location will keep you busy for hours.
8. Stargazing over the ocean
If you enjoy astronomy, The Hague is the ideal location for you. The Celestial Vault at Kijkduin, which is only a short distance from Scheveningen and directly next to Westduinpark, is extremely close by.
In order to exclude all artificial light from the city, a man-made crater was created in this special location. The enormous crater, which has five-meter-high walls, was built by artist James Turrell at the top of a dune.
The grassy floor is the ideal place to lie down and view the night sky’s constellations. You’ll be prepared to go if you bring a large blanket and some hot chocolate.
9. Discover the lovely coast
Scheveningen has a length of over five kilometers. Therefore, there is always something to do there. Here are a few more minor details to take in while you explore the beach. Don’t forget to stroll along Scheveningen’s harbor (Haven). Seeing the little private boats berthed at the marina allows you to harbor daydreams about owning a boat.
There are two tiny green and red lighthouses on either side of the harbor. You can stroll along the jetty and experience the wind off the sea. There are typically a few others fishing as well. Visit a beach bar where there are little fires to keep you warm on the night beach to cap off your thrilling day.
