Things To Do
in Katwijk

Katwijk is a charming coastal town in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant promenade. It offers a blend of traditional Dutch culture and modern amenities, making it a perfect getaway for both relaxation and exploration. The town is also famous for its historical lighthouse and picturesque dunes, attracting visitors year-round.

With a rich maritime heritage, Katwijk is a delightful destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Beach and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along Katwijk's stunning beach, enjoying the fresh sea air and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Katwijks Museum to learn about the town's fishing history and local art.

evening
:

Dine at a beachside restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Shopping
morning
:

Hike through the nearby South Holland Dunes National Park, taking in the natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Spend time shopping in the charming local boutiques and markets, picking up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local café, followed by a relaxing walk along the promenade.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$3
🍔Burger$12
🍻Beer$4
🥗Salad$8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery.
  • Rich cultural history and local events.
  • Relaxed atmosphere perfect for a getaway.
  • Can be crowded during the summer tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de badkamer?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ik heb een reservering" - I have a reservation

Places to Visit in Katwijk

Visit one of these nice places.

Katwijk Lighthouse

An iconic symbol of the town, offering a picturesque backdrop especially during sunset.

South Holland Dunes

A stunning natural landscape with rolling dunes and diverse flora, perfect for nature photography.

Beach Promenade

A vibrant area with beautiful views of the beach, ideal for capturing the lively atmosphere.

Culinary Guide

Food in Katwijk

Katwijk offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights local flavors and fresh seafood. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that reflect the town's fishing heritage.

Katwijk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kibbeling

Deep-fried battered fish, often served with a garlic or tartar sauce.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by the tail.

Zeewier Salade

Seaweed salad, a refreshing dish that showcases local sea vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Katwijk Fish Market

A vibrant market where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Promenade Food Stalls

Street vendors offering a variety of snacks and quick bites, perfect for a beach day.

Climate Guide

Weather

Katwijk experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F). Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late autumn and winter, making waterproof clothing advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Biking Rules

Always give way to cyclists and pedestrians; bike paths are common.

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone; greetings are important.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Dutch culture; it shows respect for others' time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Katwijk is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. It's advisable to be cautious around the beach during stormy weather due to strong currents.

Tipping in Katwijk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers, making it lively but also crowded; perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create a picturesque setting for walks and exploration.

Winter

Cold and windy, but the quiet beaches and cozy cafes offer a different charm; great for reflective walks.

Nightlife Guide

Katwijk at Night

Katwijk's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The beach bars and cafes offer a relaxed atmosphere for sipping cocktails and enjoying live music. As night falls, some venues host events and DJs, creating a lively yet laid-back vibe perfect for socializing with friends. The local community often gathers at these spots, providing an authentic experience of Dutch coastal culture.

Hiking in Katwijk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dune Trail

A scenic trail through the South Holland Dunes, offering beautiful views and diverse wildlife.

Coastal Path

A picturesque path along the coastline, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the sea breeze.

Airports

How to reach Katwijk by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Located approximately 30 km from Katwijk, it is the main international airport serving the area, offering numerous international flights and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Katwijk is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets. The town center, beach, and many attractions are easily accessible by foot, making it convenient for visitors to explore without a car. The promenade along the beach offers a pleasant walking experience with beautiful views and various cafes to stop at along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Katwijk has a mix of long-time residents and newcomers, contributing to a diverse community.

Tourists

The town attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly during the summer season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular in the Netherlands, with local clubs actively participating in regional leagues.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is another favored sport, with many local teams and clubs encouraging participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Katwijk is generally manageable, with main roads connecting to larger cities nearby. Public transportation includes buses that connect Katwijk to other towns and cities, making it easy to navigate without a car. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Katwijk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places provide gluten-free options, but advance notice is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Katwijk is accessible and of high quality. There are several general practitioners and pharmacies available, as well as a hospital in nearby Leiden for more serious medical needs. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most medical staff speak English.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide