Bergen aan Zee: The Dutch Coast’s Quiet Standout
The Lowdown
Just an hour in the car from Amsterdam, tucked into the dunes, Bergen aan Zee is an elegantly understated beachside escape — wide untamed sands, a sprinkling of stylish eateries and a discerning ‘in the know’ crowd. Forget the packed seaside resorts — Bergen aan Zee is the beach escape you’ll be glad to know about…but shh, don’t tell.
The Vibe
The vibe is calm and laid-back— the kind of place where you relax and sink into the sand as the kids play in the surf, then linger over long lunches that drift effortlessly into sunset. It draws families who favour a slower beach day — staying for the space, the food and the surrounding natural beauty.
Where are we Eating?
Easy, without question the place to go is, Noord. Set in the far north corner of Bergen aan Zee (fyi the nicest strip of beach), right on the sand, this vibrant, beautifully designed spot serves a menu that instantly transports you on holiday — think fresh slip soles, colourful salads and the most scrumptious prawn croquettes outside of Spain. Sandy little feet are more than welcome too: there is a thoughtful kids menu and colouring pencils appear on the table before you’ve even thought to ask. If you’re heading to Bergen aan Zee, this is where you book — no question.
Cycling from Bergen village through the dunes? You should. If the kids are hungry and in need of a pancake stop once you return, head to Duinvermaak. Charming, spacious and as tasteful as it is gezellig, it even has a fully sanded wooden playground to keep little ones happily entertained while you wait for your food.
Where are we Sleeping?
Bergen is easily doable as a day-trip from Amsterdam, however it is also a lovely spot for a weekend beach mini-break.
If staying steps from the sand appeals, you’ll find a range of rental properties by the sea front— from relaxed mid-range options to more premium property stays — all readily discoverable on the usual booking platforms.
For a weekend get-away however you may just want the ease of a hotel and Bergen village and the surrounding area has plenty to choose from. Hotel Blooming on the edge of Bergen village as you enter the dune reserve, is a large, sleek modern hotel, with family rooms and a pool.
Play & Explore
Sure, you could drive straight up to the beach — but where’s the fun in that? From Bergen village, scenic cycle tracks wind through the spectacular Noordhollands Duinreservaat all the way to the coast. Hire your bikes from the super friendly BonBonBike rental shop — electric, bakfiets, you name it, they have it — and glide through forests, magnificent sand dunes and sparkling lakes. Depending on your route and scenic vista stops, the ride takes anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, but trust us, it’s worth every pedal.
If you need a break from the beach, head in land to the charming Bergen village, steeped in old school charm and filled to the brim with designer boutique shops, stylish delis and restaurants and for the architecture and design buffs, savour in some eye wateringly spectacular grand houses.
Worth the Hype?
Consider if you’re keen to sidestep the beach crowds and you prefer your family beach days a little more off the beaten track, but still with a little something special.
Not ideal if you’re after a faster access, train accessible beach day — the nearest train station is Alkmaar, and it’s definitely not a walkable distance!
