Terschelling: The Chic, Windswept Island Families Fall in Love With
The Lowdown
Think New England–style coastal villages, vast creamy sand beaches and sea views only occasionally disturbed by magnificent sailing boats gliding past. Add to that barely any roads or cars and just a sprinkling of limited but tasteful accommodation options — and you’ve got the North Sea’s best-kept island secret. Just don’t be fooled by Terschelling’s “secret” status — this beauty books up fast!
The Vibe
Relaxed and outdoorsy, with an unspoken understanding that children roam free while adults slow down — think sandy windswept hair, bare feet and a gentle sailing-inflected rhythm to the days.
Where are we Eating?
Beach restaurants don’t get more charming, sea sprayed and atmospheric than the iconic West aan Zee. It’s large, very kid friendly, with excellent food to match.
Another island island favourite is De Walvis in West-Terschelling. Possibly the most perfectly positioned spot in the country for sundowners! Enjoy borrel on the beach facing terrace, whilst the kids run around on the large patch of green in-front of the restaurant. Pure bliss.
Wondering about the local delicacy? Welcome to cranberry cheesecake. It’s a “thing” here. And the ultimate spot to indulge? De Koffiemolen — a charming old windmill transformed into a cozy café, complete with a fully stocked outdoor (younger) kids play area. Perfect for a mid-morning coffee, cake and a little peace while the little ones are entertained.
Where are we Sleeping?
Thanks to the island’s protected status, accommodation options are deliberately limited.
For a hotel that feels truly in nature Paal 8 is your best choice — think family suites, a swimming pool and a front-row seat to one of Terschelling’s grandest beaches, West aan Zee.
Want to be closer to the buzz of the islands largest village West-Terschelling? Landal has delightful, modern, self-catered apartments at Kaap West, perched right on the beach with views so spectacular they might just be the best in the country (not just the island).
Hot off the press: for those looking for a more luxurious stay, a new spectacular dream-like hotel Elements Terschelling has just opened on the island, complete with a serene wellness centre.
Prefer your own dune-hideaway? There are gorgeous rental homes tucked into the sandy hills — but here’s the catch: during peak seasons they are booked out months in advance. Consider this your friendly warning!
Play & Explore
The real beauty of Terschelling? How blissfully untouched it is. There’s nothing to do but slow down, switch off and savour the good stuff — think long beach days, fresh local food and the simplest (yet best) seaside pastimes.
With most of the island protected as a nature reserve — all sweeping dunes and endless cycle paths — it’s basically made for the Dutch national pastime: cycling.
For families, there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained. Older kids will love a seal-spotting boat trip, while younger ones can spend hours crabbing in the harbour or flying kites on the sand. And with beaches that stretch for miles, why stop at sandcastles when you can build entire cities?
Worth the Hype?
Consider if you are looking for a wholesome family beach holiday, with little distraction and with plenty of time outside in beautiful untouched nature.
Probably not for you, if your idea of a holiday doesn’t involve cycling and if you want a place with more nightlife and entertainment.
