Beaches

Around the Zealandic coastal place Burgh Haamstede is one of the most quiet and beautiful beaches of the Netherlands. This is the sandy beach of Westerschouwen. The largest forest of Zealand is also located in Westerschouwen. Together with the Gulls Dunes nature reserve, it is part of the 'Kop van Schouweng'. A hilly dunes landscape. With sand-drifts, valleys and dune meadows. These beaches are ideal if you want to relax completely. There are excellent facilities, but you will be saved of the huge crowds, also in the summer season, that you find in other resorts. Furthermore, the province of Zeeland has the most sun hours in the Netherlands during the summer. An excellent start for a lovely beach holiday.

The beaches of Burgh Haamstede have won already several major awards. In 2011, the beach received (each year without interruption since 2000) the 'International Blue Flag environmental award' again. It guarantees high quality of bathing water and a well kept clean beach. In 2011 and 2009, Katwijk also received the 'Quality Coast Award' for its high quality of human and nature-friendly tourism.

Facilities

A sunbath or a walk along the beach, playing fun or water sports. The very well maintained, white beaches of Burgh Haamstede 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, the availability of public showers and restrooms, beach cabins, and dustbins. Then there are the lifeguards and the rescue brigade whom watch over the well being of the guests, with a First aid post nearby. The possibility to rent beach-chairs, windshields and parasols is an extra comfort for our "spoiled" bathing guests.

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.

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.