Dogs in Zandvoort:
Guide to Visiting the Beach With Your Dog

The municipality of Zandvoort has clear seasonal rules:

• October 1st – May 1st: Dogs are allowed on the entire beach, all day and night. They can run free, chase balls, and enjoy the sea breeze without restrictions. This is the perfect season for dog owners who love long walks.

• May 1st – October 1st: During the busy summer season, dogs are not allowed between 09:00 and 19:00 on the main beach. The sand is filled with sunbathers and swimmers, so this restriction keeps the beach comfortable for everyone. Dogs are welcome before 09:00 and after 19:00.

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Tip for summer visitors: Early mornings and sunsets are magical times to visit the beach with your dog. You’ll enjoy golden light, a quieter atmosphere, and plenty of space.

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Off-Leash Areas Near Zandvoort

If your dog loves to run free, Zandvoort offers several areas where this is possible:

• South Beach (towards Bloemendaal) – Wide and open, less crowded than the central stretch, and perfect for long off-leash walks.

• North Beach (towards IJmuiden) – Another expansive area where dogs are welcome year-round. Great for energetic dogs who love space.

• Specific dune paths around Zandvoort, such as Visscherspad, Blinkertweg, and parts of Wurmenveld, also allow dogs off-leash. Always look for signs, as rules can vary within the dunes.

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Where Dogs Are Not Allowed: Protected Nature Reserves

It’s important to highlight that not all dune areas welcome dogs. Two major reserves near Zandvoort have strict bans or very limited access:

• Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen (AWD): Dogs are completely forbidden, even on a leash. This area is a protected water catchment and home to sensitive wildlife such as deer. Only certified service dogs are allowed.

• Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland: Dogs are not allowed in most parts of this national park. There are a few exceptions, such as paths near Parnassia and some beaches (IJmuiderslag, north of Bloemendaal). In certain dune areas like Visscherspad and Blinkertweg, dogs may walk off-leash, but large parts of the park are off-limits.

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Important: Always respect these rules. Fines apply, and more importantly, dogs can disturb vulnerable wildlife.

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Dog-Friendly Beach Clubs and Restaurants

After a long walk, nothing beats sitting down at a beach club or café where your dog is just as welcome as you are. Luckily, Zandvoort has plenty of dog-friendly restaurants and beach pavilions:

• Doggy Beach House – A unique shop and “dog bar” where dogs can enjoy ice treats, snacks, and fun accessories.

• Noble Tree – A cozy café with a special dog menu, including Dutch-style dog snacks like the Fripawdel Speciaal.

• Le Bar – Friendly beach clubs where dogs are welcome on the terrace and staff happily provide water bowls.

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Many beach clubs have outdoor seating, shade, and fresh water available. Some even include a dog-friendly menu — making Zandvoort’s beach cafés the perfect spots to relax with your pup.

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Rules Every Dog Owner Should Know

To keep Zandvoort safe and enjoyable for everyone, the following rules apply:

• Always clean up after your dog. Bags and bins are provided at beach entrances and in the village.

• Keep dogs on a leash in restricted areas. Off-leash freedom is only allowed where signs indicate.

• Dogs are not allowed in playgrounds or near children’s sandpits.

• Respect seasonal beach restrictions: no dogs on the central beach between 09:00–19:00 in summer.

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By following these rules, you help ensure that Zandvoort remains a dog-friendly destination.

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Practical Tips for Visiting With Your Dog

• Parking: Zandvoort has several large parking lots near the beach, including De Zuid and Parnassia (near Bloemendaal). Both are close to dog-friendly areas. See the Doggy Guide for fun dog activities in Amsterdam!

• Public transport: From Amsterdam, trains to Zandvoort take just 30 minutes. Dogs are allowed on Dutch trains with a day ticket for pets.

• Bring fresh water: In summer, always carry a bottle and bowl. Some beach clubs offer free water, but it’s smart to have your own.

• Check sand temperature: On hot days, test the sand with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

• Evening walks: The summer rule (after 19:00) makes for beautiful sunset walks — ideal for photos and a calmer beach vibe.

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Why Zandvoort is a Dog-Friendly Destination

Zandvoort combines the best of both worlds: a lively seaside atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for dogs to enjoy nature. The long beach allows for off-leash fun in winter and quiet walks in summer mornings and evenings. Dog-friendly cafés and beach clubs welcome four-legged guests, and the surrounding dune areas offer scenic walks — with clear signs showing where dogs are allowed.

For anyone searching for “dog-friendly beach near Amsterdam”, “dogs in Zandvoort”, or “where to walk your dog on the Dutch coast”, Zandvoort is the place to be.

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So grab the leash, pack some snacks, and head for the Dutch coast. Whether it’s a long winter walk, a summer sunset stroll, or a cozy lunch in a beach café, your dog will love Zandvoort just as much as you do.