Scheveningen, a popular seaside district in The Hague in the Netherlands, radiates an eclectic charm made up of the tranquility of nature and liveliness of a historic seaside resort. It continues to honor its Dutch maritime heritage while simultaneously embracing modern leisure and outdoor activities. From the soft sands of vast beaches to museums and galleries, Scheveningen promises a great vacation at the North Sea.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: The Netherlands' excellent transportation system makes Scheveningen easy to reach. Trains, trams and buses frequently connect to the area from major Dutch cities, and international visitors typically arrive via Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, followed by a direct train to The Hague.
• Getting Around: The neighborhood is walkable, but for a genuinely Dutch experience, consider renting a bicycle. Public trams and buses are also readily available.
• Where to Stay: The best accommodations offer the quintessential Scheveningen experience, such as beachfront hotels with views of the North Sea or boutique accommodations near the historic Oud Scheveningen.
• How Long to Visit: A weekend may do if you want a quick seaside getaway, but a week-long stay is ideal to take in the full range of Scheveningen's coastal walks, cultural sites, and recreational activities.
• When to Visit: In the summer, the beach is packed with activities, and it offers ideal conditions for water sports, while the off-season is quieter but just as charming.
• Similar Destinations: Brighton, England, or Ostend, Belgium, offer similar seaside experiences.

Highlights:

The Boardwalk and Harbour:

The boardwalk is the main strip of Scheveningen, with "de Pier" packed with activities ranging from bungee jumping to dining with panoramic sea views. Along the promenade, numerous statues reflect the essence of the city's maritime and artistic heritage and provide fascinating landmarks for your walks. Finally, the Scheveningen Harbour area is a great place to stroll and observe the busy marine activity of local fishermen and leisure boats.

Nature Walks:

Head out on a refreshing walk through Westduinpark, where the rolling dunes meet the beautiful Zuiderstrand beach and offer a serene atmosphere. Continue to Oostduinpark and either walk or cycle through the scenic park, also a haven for local wildlife. Scheveningen Bosjes also welcomes hikers along its many trails that lead through the forest and will let you forget that you're in the middle of a city.

Shopping in Statenkwartier:

Treat yourself to a shopping experience along the streets of Statenkwartier, where high-end boutiques offer the latest fashion and designs. This neighborhood is especially well-known for its striking Art Nouveau buildings, which house the luxurious storefronts. After shopping, enjoy the charming cafes that dot the area.

Oud Scheveningen:

In Oud Scheveningen, traditional fishermen's houses paint a picture of the neighborhood's maritime past. They are nestled in narrow alleys that wind through the old heart of the town and showcase the quintessential building styles of North Sea fishing villages.

Muzee Scheveningen:

Muzee Scheveningen features a variety of exhibits, from historic maritime artifacts to displays that reflect the daily lives of Scheveningen residents throughout history. A visit to the Muzee is not only educational but also provides a deeper appreciation of the traditions and achievements that have defined the town over the centuries.

Stargazing in the Celestial Vault:

The Celestial Vault in Kijkduin offers a unique stargazing opportunity next to the bustling Scheveningen. This artificial crater, designed to block out the city's light pollution, gives an unobstructed view of the night sky. You can lie on the gently sloping walls of the crater and gaze upward at the cosmos, letting you escape the crowds for a while.

Learn How to Surf:

Scheveningen's beaches are renowned for their excellent surfing conditions, making it a top destination in the Netherlands for surfers of all levels. Local surf schools offer lessons for those who want to take on the waves, while others prefer to lounge on the beach and enjoy the spectacle of surfers carving through the water. The sight of surfers against the backdrop of the expansive North Sea is mesmerizing, and the surf culture adds to the dynamic and youthful spirit of the town.