Things To Do
in Noordwijk

Noordwijk is a charming coastal town in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant flower fields. It is part of the South Holland province and enjoys a rich maritime history, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. The town boasts a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, offering a serene escape for relaxation and recreation.

With its picturesque landscapes and bustling promenade, Noordwijk is a perfect spot for seaside adventures and cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Noordwijk
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Noordwijk beach, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the beachside cafes while watching the sunrise over the North Sea.

afternoon
:

Explore the famous Keukenhof Gardens, just a short drive away, to witness the stunning display of tulips and other flowers in bloom.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh fish dishes, followed by a stroll along the beach promenade as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Noordwijk Space Expo to learn about the town's connection to space science and technology.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a bike ride through the nearby dunes and nature reserves, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife.

evening
:

Relax at a cozy pub or bar, enjoying local beers and perhaps catching some live music or a quiz night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel Night$120
🚍Public Transport Ticket$3
🛍️Souvenir$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful sandy beaches
  • Rich flower culture, especially in spring
  • Wide range of outdoor activities
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Noordwijk

Visit one of these nice places.

Noordwijk Beach

Capture stunning sunset views and the picturesque beach landscape, perfect for wide-angle shots.

Keukenhof Gardens

Known for its breathtaking flower displays, this spot is ideal for vibrant floral photography, especially in spring.

Lighthouse Noordwijk

A historic lighthouse that offers great views of the coastline and is a charming subject for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Noordwijk

Noordwijk offers a delightful culinary experience with its fresh seafood and local delicacies, perfect for food lovers.

Noordwijk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles, is a Dutch delicacy you must try.

Must-Try!

Stroopwafels

A traditional Dutch treat made of two thin waffles with a caramel-like syrup filling, perfect for a sweet snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Noordwijk Farmers Market

Held every Friday, this market offers fresh local produce, cheeses, and street food options, allowing you to taste the region’s flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Noordwijk experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it pleasant for beach activities. Winters are cooler, with temperatures averaging around 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F) and occasional snowfall. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, and it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture; lateness can be seen as disrespectful.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance when interacting; personal space is valued in conversations.

Casual Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone; greetings are typically friendly and informal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Noordwijk is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to stay alert in crowded areas and safeguard personal belongings. When enjoying outdoor activities, especially near the water, take precautions to ensure your safety, such as swimming in designated areas and being aware of local weather conditions.

Tipping in Noordwijk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, though having some cash on hand for smaller vendors is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

In spring, Noordwijk is in full bloom with colorful flowers, ideal for enjoying the Keukenhof Gardens and pleasant weather.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather, making it perfect for beach activities, outdoor dining, and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage and milder weather, great for hiking and enjoying the tranquil beaches.

Winter

Winters can be chilly but cozy, with fewer tourists and opportunities for peaceful beach walks and local holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Noordwijk at Night

Noordwijk's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with numerous bars, pubs, and beach clubs offering a variety of atmospheres. From cozy local pubs serving Dutch beers to chic beach clubs with live DJs, there's something for everyone. The beach promenade comes alive at night, where you can enjoy drinks while listening to the sound of the waves. During the summer months, outdoor events and festivals add to the lively nightlife scene.

Hiking in Noordwijk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking in the Meijendel Nature Reserve

A short distance from Noordwijk, this reserve offers scenic trails through dunes and forests, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.

Dune Trail in Noordwijk

A local trail that winds through the beautiful coastal dunes, providing stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Noordwijk by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Located approximately 30 km from Noordwijk, Schiphol Airport is the primary international airport in the Netherlands, offering numerous flights worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Noordwijk is a highly walkable town, with a compact layout that makes it easy to explore on foot. The beach promenade offers a scenic walking path, connecting various attractions, shops, and restaurants. Pedestrian-friendly streets enhance the experience, allowing visitors to stroll and enjoy the coastal views comfortably.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.

Tourists

During peak seasons, Noordwijk attracts a diverse group of tourists, including families, couples, and nature enthusiasts seeking beach experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Noordwijk, with local teams and clubs engaging both youth and adults in the community.

Beach Volleyball

The town hosts various beach volleyball events and tournaments, attracting participants and spectators alike during the summer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Noordwijk is generally manageable, with the main roads connecting to larger cities. Public transportation, including buses, is available for easy access to nearby areas. Biking is a popular mode of transport among locals, making it easy to navigate without relying heavily on cars.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Noordwijk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Noordwijk offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it’s always good to ask for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available at various eateries, especially those focusing on health-conscious menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Noordwijk is accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals in nearby cities like Leiden are reachable within a short drive. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health expenses while abroad.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide