Around the Zeelandic coastal place Burgh Haamstede is one of the most quiet and beautiful beaches of the Netherlands. This is the sandy beach of Westerschouwen. The largest forest of Zeeland is also located in Westerschouwen. Together with the Gulls Dunes nature reserve, it is part of the Kop van Schouwen. A hilly dunes landscape. With sand-drifts, valleys and dune meadows. These beaches are ideal if you want to relax completely. There are excellent facilities, but you will be saved of the huge crowds, also in the summer season, that you find in other resorts. Furthermore, the province of Zeeland has the most sun hours in the Netherlands during the summer. An excellent start for a lovely beach holiday.
The beaches of have won already several major awards. In 2024 the beach received the international 'Blue Flag' environmental award for the 25th time. It guarantees high quality of bathing water and a well kept clean beach. In 2017 received again the ‘Quality Coast Award’ for its high quality of human and nature-friendly tourism.
Facilities & Safety on the Beach
The beaches of Burgh Haamstede 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 Burgh Haamstede 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 in Burgh Haamstede
At the main beaches of Burgh Haamstede, lifeguards ensure a safe day by the sea. This way, you can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand without worry.
- When: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00 in July and August, and also on weekends between 15 May and 15 September if the weather is good.
- Qualified lifeguards: Trained in first aid and equipped with communication tools and rescue gear.
- Lifeguard stations: Spread along the beach, clearly marked with flags and lookout points. These manned stations provide constant supervision.
- Danger warnings: In case of strong currents or bad weather, you will be warned in time via flags.
Flags and Their Meanings
On the beaches of Burgh Haamstede, 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:
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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.
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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.
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Yellow Flag
Be careful when swimming! Dangerous sea
Warns of dangerous conditions in the sea. Extra caution and vigilance are required.
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Orange Windsock
Be careful when swimming! Do not use floatation devices!
Warns against the use of (inflatable) floatation devices due to offshore winds.
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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.
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Green Flag with White Cross
First Aid Post
First aid personnel are present at the lifeguard station.
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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.
- Only leashed dogs are allowed on the beaches of Burgh Haamstede during the period 1 May till 1 October between 10:00 till 19:00.
- Outside of the above mentioned period and time are dogs allowed (both loose and leased) on the beaches of Burgh Haamstede.
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.
- Help to keep the beaches clean.
Only leashed dogs are allowed on the 