![Women with a surfboard riding on a bike Women with a surfboard riding on a bike](jpg/83516_fullimage_%c2%a9%20the%20hague%20and%20partners_1360x430_397x278_0.jpg)
Water sports in the Netherlands
As you travel through the Netherlands, it’s practically impossible to miss the lakes, beaches and charming waterways everywhere. Naturally, this makes our country a fantastic water sports destination. Whether you’re interested in an active day out or just want to relax and unwind, you’ll be spoilt for choice with all the options on offer. Hardly surprising then that water sports are also extremely popular among Dutch people of all ages. No need to worry about bringing all your gear with you because water sports equipment is widely available and can be hired. So come and enjoy the water – for a day or your entire holiday!
- Places with unique possibilities
- Recreation and water sports are possible throughout the Netherlands.
- Fun on the water, from the Wadden Islands to Zeeland.
The Netherlands is a top water sports destination
The Netherlands is a fantastic destination for water sports enthusiasts. Close to a third of our country is below sea level, which used to pose a problem but now offers unique opportunities for water sports. With all the beautiful lakes, beaches and waterways in our country, it’s no wonder that almost a quarter of all Dutch people now participate in water sports. Anyone who has ever spent some leisure time on the water here already knows that Dutch waters are top class when it comes to variety. Our seaside and many lakes are ideal for anyone wishing to experience the exhilaration of the wind, water and fresh air. From the Wadden Islands to Zeeland, the Netherlands has plenty of unique places where you can enjoy your favourite water sport.
Kitesurfing on the coast
Surfing: riding the Dutch waves
![Julia van Rooij](jpg/83517_fullimage_julia%20van%20rooij_480x480.jpg)
When I’m surfing there’s no room to think about other things.
Water sports on the Dutch lakes
Stand up paddleboarding in Friesland
Stand up paddleboarding, or SUP for short, involves standing on a surfboard and using a paddle to move across the water. It is a popular water sport well-suited for calmer waters, such as our canals and lakes. Friesland is also called the SUP province of the Netherlands. The calm lakes, quiet canals and wide waterways are great places to paddle along the water and relax. The waterways run right through the meadows so you can also enjoy Friesland’s beautiful landscape and wave to the grazing cows or horses along the way.
![Couple supping on the Lauwersmeer Couple supping on the Lauwersmeer](jpg/81887_fullimage_koppel%20aan%20het%20suppen%20op%20het%20lauwersmeer%20%c2%a9%20marleen%20annema%20via%20visit%20wadden_1150x663.jpg)
Julia van Rooij's tips
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Make sure you hit the water with the right gear: a suitable surfboard and possibly a well-fitting wetsuit. People often make the mistake of beginning on their own using the wrong board. For good surfboard advice, always turn to a specialised surf shop.
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Surfing is not just a summer sport! Come and check it out in the winter. There are usually more storms around England at that time of year. The bigger the storm, the more waves that come our way. It’s also less crowded in the water.
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While surfing in the Netherlands, I have come across seals and porpoises in the water around me. Awesome! As users of the sea, let's also give something back by, for example, not leaving anything behind and picking up any litter from the beach after your session.