Beach of Terschelling

For years, Terschelling has attracted a variety of visitors. No wonder, because the largest Frisian Wadden island offers something for everyone: a wide beach, with swimming sites along the North Sea coast, cycling trails, scenic routes, outdoor activities and a wide range of entertainment possibilities. The sandy beach of Terschelling is one of the finest in the Netherlands. It is nicely wide and flat and therefore ideal for rest and quiet.

Each beach on the island has its own unique charm:

1. West aan Zee

   This beach is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. It is wide and expansive, making it perfect for long walks. Here you will find the Strandpaviljoen West aan Zee, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while overlooking the North Sea. This beach also offers opportunities for spotting seals.

2. Het Groene Strand

   Located near the village of West-Terschelling, The Green Beach gets its name from the surrounding green dune landscape that gives it a unique atmosphere. From here, you have a beautiful view of the Wadden Sea and the iconic Brandaris lighthouse. It is a favorite spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.



3. Midsland aan Zee

   Midsland aan Zee is located halfway along the island and offers a wide sandy beach surrounded by impressive dunes. This beach is popular among families and often provides the opportunity to observe resting seals during the summer. Several cozy beach pavilions offer the possibility to have a bite to eat and drink.



4. Formerum aan Zee

   This beach, located near the village of Formerum, is quieter and offers more privacy. It is an excellent choice for those seeking peace and relaxation. The ZandZeeBar is a beautiful beach pavilion to visit, known for its relaxed atmosphere and unique decor.

5. Oosterend

   This is the most eastern beach of Terschelling and is very peaceful. It is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquility and nature, and to go for walks. It is also a great spot for bird watching.

6. Hoorn aan Zee

   Hoorn aan Zee, located near the village of Hoorn, is a beautiful, quiet beach. It is ideal for long, relaxing walks and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding dunes. In the vicinity of Hoorn aan Zee is the renowned De Boschplaat nature reserve, which is definitely worth a visit for nature lovers.

The beaches, with showers to rinse of the salt seawater, will be cleaned everyday. Besides the rescue brigade will guard the beaches and warns when there is a dangerous current or wind; a pleasant and safe feeling.

Facilities

A sunbath or a walk along the beach, playing fun or water sports. The very well maintained, white beaches of will offer you peace and quietness. Optimum facilities will tribute to the comfort and with that the holiday pleasure of the guests. It starts with accessible beach crossings and parking places. Then there are the lifeguards and the rescue brigade whom watch over the well being of the guests, with a First aid post nearby. Furthermore the many cafes, terraces and restaurants near the beach will take care of the needs for serving drinks and snacks or lunch and diner.

Flags and Their Meanings

On the beaches of Terschelling, you will find various information signs and beach flags to inform and warn swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and other beachgoers about the risks associated with swimming in the sea. Below you will find the meanings of these flags:

• Red-Yellow Flag

  Supervised beach zone. Lifeguards present
  Lifeguard station is open, and qualified lifeguards are monitoring the area within the lifeguard brigade's working area.

• Red Flag

  No swimming! Very dangerous sea
  Warns of serious danger and is raised when swimming conditions are very dangerous. Swimming, bathing, and other activities in or on the sea are strongly discouraged.

• Yellow Flag

  Be careful when swimming! Dangerous sea
  Warns of dangerous conditions in the sea. Extra caution and vigilance are required.

• Orange Windsock

  Be careful when swimming! Do not use floatation devices!
  Warns against the use of (inflatable) floatation devices due to offshore winds.

• White Flag with Blue Question Mark

  Child found!
  A child has been found who is missing their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are asked to report to the lifeguard station.

• Green Flag with White Cross

  First Aid Post
  First aid personnel are present at the lifeguard station.

• Black and White Chequered Flag

  Water sports allowed
  In the zone between the two black and white chequered flags, water sports are allowed.

Pay attention to these flags and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards for your safety and the safety of others on the beach.

Dogs at the beach

The beach is the ideal destination for many dogs to enjoy. A Frisbee, a stick or a ball can fetch give great pleasure. And what is more fun than making a beach walk with your dog? However, on various beaches are dogs, loose or on a leash, not allowed all year.

Dogs are allowed (both loose and leased) on the beaches of Terschelling all year round.

Further, we also recommend reading the information board, with the local beach rules, which is often placed near every beach (entrance).

Beach tips

• At low tide there is a strong current towards the sea, than stay close to shore. In case you get pulled in by the current do not try to swim straight against it, but swim slanting to the shore with the current. Also be aware of floating devices like air-beds, boats or other swimming devices.
• Do not get to close to the poles, piers or other obstacles.
• Watch your children carefully, do not let them alone near the water. Are there recognition signs on the beach, tell it to your children.
• Help to keep the beaches clean.