20 Jun 9X Natural Swimming Spots in Amsterdam
Give the Dutch one sunbeam and you will feast your eyes on flip-flops, shorts, skirts, bikinis, and white bodies ready to get tanned. People also seek water and options to cool down. Swimming in natural water seems to grow in popularity because the Dutch beaches can be too busy on hot summer days.
Check out these 9 natural swimming spots in Amsterdam and you’ll never have to stand in traffic to the beach again.
‘T Twiske
I have been here recently and I love this place. There are several man-made beaches with many natural swim spots. There are many relaxing activities such as playing golf, fishing, hiking, cycling or you can enjoy a BBQ. There is even a nudist beach area so eh. if you want to swim in your birthday suit, you can do it here! Parking costs €3,50 for the first 3 hours.
Borneokade
One of Amsterdam’s best, yet hidden swimming spots only the locals know about. It’s super central if you navigate from Central Station towards the Eastside of Amsterdam, near the Panama club. It’s one of our favorite natural swimming spots in Amsterdam, and is easy to get into.
Sloterpark
I live here so I know this area very well. I think this park is one of the best parks in Amsterdam because the trees are high, so beautiful and ever-changing. The water is around 35 meters deep and the East and West side of the Sloterplas is available for swimming from the grass, where you will find actual swimming-pool-like-stairs going in the water. There is also a newly refurbished beach area where you can also find Hotel Buiten. On sunny days, you can borrow free beach chairs, inflatables, and inflatable armbands.
Sloterplas
Gaasperplas
Did you know that the Gaasperpark and Gaasperplas are 166 hectares together? Situated in southeast Amsterdam, it might be a bit far out for you but if you love swimming, this is a great spot. Watch the sailboats and windsurfers though, because they love it here too. There are showers, toilets, and a farm for lunch called Boerderij Langerlust.
Gaasperplas from above (Source)
Diemerpark Beach
This man-made beach area is in the far East of Amsterdam and is located in between the Amsterdam- Rijnkanaal, and IJburg. It’s a place where nature gets a fair chance so there are many fauna and flora around. The beach area is located on the north side of the park. There are no showers but it’s perfect for getting your tan on.
Nieuwe Meer
There are 3 main swimming spots here and lot’s of tiny little places to lay down and jump in the water. You find yourself in the middle of nature and you won’t even realize you’re in freaking Amsterdam. If you have a boat, it’s a great place to stop and relax. The best way to get here is by bicycle but there is also a big parking lot. Swimming here is at your own risk because there is no supervision.
Amsterdamse Bos
Firstly, the water here is excellent and very safe for children. That being said, the big pond is around 1 meter deep and one of the best swimming natural swimming spots in Amsterdam. The big lake is very popular for water sports and many people go here to enjoy the water. Come early or plan a trip during the week if you want to enjoy the nature and scenery when it’s still quiet. There are toilets but no showers but the water is sweet and very clean.
Beach De Hoge Dijk
This area is located North of the village of Abcoude and South of the Amsterdam district of Reigersbos. The good thing here is that there is a small puddle-like area, especially for children that is safe enough for them to play in. If you have a dog that loves swimming, this is also the place to do it but only from October until April.
A better experience than swimming in pools?
Ouderkerkplas
The water is being monitored every year and this water hasn’t had the best results. Meaning, that you might get some stomach problems if you swallow the water. Mind you, it is still a nice place to visit and it qualified as safe enough. The sandy beach is around 200 meters in length and 20 meters wide. There is an ATM, restaurants nearby, and showers.
Blijburg
If you live in Amsterdam, you have probably been here. Blijburg at sea has closed unfortunately due to the building of new housing. The beach is cleaner though and there are more parking spaces. We have to admit, it’s not the cleanest water in the world but as long as you don’t swallow the water, we think you will survive 😉
If you are looking for watersports for kids, the Westerpark, Vondelpark, Oosterpark, and Beatrixpark are also nice options. The water here is shallow and filtered daily. To find out more about the water and swim quality in the Netherlands, check this website: www.zwemwater.nl
Have fun swimming this summer!
Love,
Elke
More tips about Amsterdam? Check our Amsterdam Guide!
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