Terschelling is the largest Frisian Wadden Island and a popular destination for families, nature lovers and young people alike.
Diverse atmosphere: The island offers a great mix of tranquillity, nature and sociability – perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
30 kilometres of sandy beach: On the North Sea side lies one of the longest beaches in the Netherlands – ideal for long walks and endless beach fun. At spots like Paal 8 or Paal 18, the beach is several hundred metres wide, giving a real sense of space and freedom.
This beach is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. It is wide and expansive, making it perfect for long walks. Here you will find the Strandpaviljoen West aan Zee, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while overlooking the North Sea. This beach also offers opportunities for spotting seals.
Located near the village of West-Terschelling, The Green Beach gets its name from the surrounding green dune landscape that gives it a unique atmosphere. From here, you have a beautiful view of the Wadden Sea and the iconic Brandaris lighthouse. It is a favorite spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Midsland aan Zee is located halfway along the island and offers a wide sandy beach surrounded by impressive dunes. This beach is popular among families and often provides the opportunity to observe resting seals during the summer. Several cozy beach pavilions offer the possibility to have a bite to eat and drink.
This beach, located near the village of Formerum, is quieter and offers more privacy. It is an excellent choice for those seeking peace and relaxation. The ZandZeeBar is a beautiful beach pavilion to visit, known for its relaxed atmosphere and unique decor.
This is the most eastern beach of Terschelling and is very peaceful. It is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquility and nature, and to go for walks. It is also a great spot for bird watching.
Hoorn aan Zee, located near the village of Hoorn, is a beautiful, quiet beach. It is ideal for long, relaxing walks and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding dunes. In the vicinity of Hoorn aan Zee is the renowned De Boschplaat nature reserve, which is definitely worth a visit for nature lovers.
Facilities & Safety on the Beach
The beaches of Terschelling are clean, well-maintained and equipped with all the conveniences for a relaxing day by the sea.
Daily cleaning: Every summer day, the beaches are cleaned so you can enjoy a fresh and tidy spot on the sand.
Showers: Showers are located throughout the beach to rinse off sand and seawater – ideal after swimming or playing.
Supervision & First Aid: During the summer season, lifeguards and beach patrols look after your safety. First aid stations are available at the busier entrances.
Comfort for Everyone
Whether you come to sunbathe, walk, play or enjoy watersports – the wide beaches of Terschelling offer peace, space and comfort for all ages.
Accessibility: Many beach entrances are suitable for prams and wheelchairs. Nearby parking areas make your beach visit even easier.
Food & drink nearby: Along the beach you'll find cosy pavilions and terraces for an ice cream, lunch, drink or dinner with a sea view.
Beach Supervision on Terschelling
On various parts of the beach on Terschelling, lifeguards keep watch to ensure a safe and carefree day by the sea. This way, you can fully enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.
When: Daily from 5 July to 30 August 2025, from 10:00 to 18:00.
Qualified lifeguards: Trained in first aid and equipped with communication devices and rescue gear.
Lifeguard posts: Clearly marked with flags and lookout points. Constant surveillance is maintained from these manned posts.
Danger warnings: In case of strong currents or bad weather, you will be warned in time via flags.
On Terschelling, three lifeguard posts ensure supervision and safety at the island’s main beach locations:
Post West aan Zee: Located at the beach access point on the Badweg, close to Hotel Paal 8.
Post Midsland aan Zee: Situated at the busiest stretch of beach on the island, near beach pavilion De Branding.
Post Formerum: Located at pole 12, near beach pavilion Zandzeebar.
Flags and Their Meanings
On the beaches of Terschelling, you will find various information signs and beach flags to inform and warn swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and other beachgoers about the risks associated with swimming in the sea. Below you will find the meanings of these flags:
Red-Yellow Flag
Supervised beach zone. Lifeguards present Lifeguard station is open, and qualified lifeguards are monitoring the area within the lifeguard brigade's working area.
Red Flag
No swimming! Very dangerous sea Warns of serious danger and is raised when swimming conditions are very dangerous. Swimming, bathing, and other activities in or on the sea are strongly discouraged.
Yellow Flag
Be careful when swimming! Dangerous sea Warns of dangerous conditions in the sea. Extra caution and vigilance are required.
Orange Windsock
Be careful when swimming! Do not use floatation devices! Warns against the use of (inflatable) floatation devices due to offshore winds.
White Flag with Blue Question Mark
Child found! A child has been found who is missing their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are asked to report to the lifeguard station.
Green Flag with White Cross
First Aid Post First aid personnel are present at the lifeguard station.
Black and White Chequered Flag
Water sports allowed In the zone between the two black and white chequered flags, water sports are allowed.
Pay attention to these flags and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards for your safety and the safety of others on the beach.
Dogs on the Beach
For many dogs, the beach is the ultimate place to run, play, and swim. Whether it’s a seaside walk in the fresh sea breeze or a cheerful game with a frisbee or ball – dogs clearly enjoy a day by the sea. But please note: on many beaches, seasonal rules apply regarding dogs.
Dogs are allowed (both loose and leased) on the beaches of Terschelling all year round.
Further, we also recommend reading the information board, with the local beach rules, which is often placed near every beach (entrance).
Beach tips
At low tide there is a strong current towards the sea, than stay close to shore. In case you get pulled in by the current do not try to swim straight against it, but swim slanting to the shore with the current. Also be aware of floating devices like air-beds, boats or other swimming devices.
Do not get to close to the poles, piers or other obstacles.
Watch your children carefully, do not let them alone near the water. Are there recognition signs on the beach, tell it to your children.
Dogs are allowed (both loose and leased) on the