Beach and water sports
Surfen in Scheveningen
Scheveningen: one of the best surfing spots in north-western Europe
Most people don’t realise it, but The Hague’s coastline is the place to be for Dutch surfers. Even German water sports enthusiasts know their way to this stretch of the North Sea. Due to the beach’s specific location, waves that travel a long distance reach the coast here more effectively than in other parts of the Netherlands. What’s more, there are only a few places in Europe that offer the combination of bustling city life and the tranquillity of surfing.
Surfing in Scheveningen: what you need to know:
- You can surf all year round on Scheveningen’s North and South Beaches.
- There are various surf schools dotted along the coast; on Noorderstrand alone, there are four. Perfect for lessons and equipment hire.
- The best waves are found in autumn and winter.
- Do you have any questions about the conditions? Ask surfers, surf schools or the KNRM.
Noorderstrand: Scheveningen’s top spot.
Ready for your first surfing lesson?
There are plenty of surf schools along the Scheveningen coast. The vast majority are located on Noorderstrand. Once you’ve decided to take your first lesson, which school should you choose? Below is a list of the four largest ones.
1 Hartbeach
One of the best-known and largest in Scheveningen. As well as the surf school and the lovely beachside restaurant, you’ll find the surf shop of the same name just a stone’s throw away in the harbour. Hart Beach on the beach is open 365 days a year. So you can even go surfing in the snow.
Hartbeach surfschool
2 The Shore
Small but mighty, The Shore is an intimate surf shack where sustainability takes centre stage. Book your first surf lesson, hire boards or skate in their mini-ramp. Tip: don’t miss out on the homemade pancakes – they’re legendary.
3 Aloha Beachclub, Surfschool & Surfshop
Aloha is not only a cosy, welcoming little tropical beach pavilion but also a surf school and surf shop. You can pop in for a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner! At Aloha, you can also visit in winter for an unforgettable surfing lesson or simply to hire surfing gear. And if you find that too cold, just stay and relax by the open fire! Aloha is also open in winter.
4 Surf’s Cool
You can also go surfing at the Pier. It’s no coincidence that the surf school Surf’s Cool is located right in the middle of this iconic structure. Lots of kids gather here after school for a special after-school programme.
High Five for the good life at Aloha!
Where is the best place to park?
With the right gear, you can surf all year round. In winter, the beach is naturally a bit easier to get to than in summer. More and more visitors are choosing to cycle to the beach. It’s quite a smart move, as it means you’ve already had your warm-up before your surf session.
The Scheveningen surfing scene in pictures
It will come as no surprise that surfing in the North Sea is more often than not a bit of a blustery affair rather than a tropical one. Take a look and see what this unique lifestyle is like on the coast of The Hague!
What about safety and surfing in Scheveningen?
Throughout the year, KNRM volunteers are on duty on the beach to ensure your visit is as safe as possible. However, always take care and only go surfing in weather conditions you feel comfortable with. Never go alone and avoid areas where rip currents can form, such as near breakwaters and jetties. Keep an eye on the rescue brigade’s flags. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the KNRM, staff at the surf schools or fellow water sports enthusiasts. It’s also good to know these right-of-way rules before you head into the water.
Wat betekenen de verschillende vlaggen op het strand?
Unique water scenes by photographer Robin Bakker
A surfer and coach from The Hague
Pepijn Tigges, a well-known surfer from The Hague, offers surfing coaching. Using video analysis, he can carefully review every surfing session and give you tailored advice. For beginners and experienced surfers alike!
Which beach in The Hague is the perfect spot for me?
With 11 kilometres of coastline, that can be a difficult question to answer. That’s why this article tells you more about The Hague’s various beaches.