Zeeland is HOT! Literally, thanks to this heatwave we’re having, if you're looking for a summer getaway/staycation in The Netherlands, then this is the place to be this summer ~ Gorgeous wide beaches, water sports, biking trails, forest walks, dunes and history!

Zeeland is the westernmost province of the Netherlands consisting of several islands and peninsulas.

The most famous seaside towns in Zeeland are Zoutelande, Dishoek, Domburg, Breksens, Cadzand, and Renesse (the latter is for the younger crowd). Popular cities to visit are Middelburg, Vlissingen, Terneuzen, and Zierikzee.

*** Personal note regarding Vlissingen: This town has a nice boulevard along the beach, pretty sea views, and is perfect for drinks while watching the sunset. Having said that, in our experience, that is all I would recommend doing there. The restaurants located on the beachfront, unfortunately, were a huge disappointment! They were actually the worst I've been to in the NL, with terrible service to match...I would recommend Middelburg instead if you are in the area, tips below for this cozy town.

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Accommodations In Zeeland

We wanted to be as close as possible to the beach and still be relatively close to a town. We chose to stay in Kouderkerke; 5 minutes walk to the beach, 5 minutes drive to Vlissingen, and 15 minutes drive to beautiful Middleburg.

These are my top two recommendations:

Strandhotel Westduin: We had a great time here! The location is perfect, you have all the facilities you need right there. Bikes for rent, a restaurant, and the staff was so friendly and accommodating, offering help with information about the area.

Our second choice would have been Duinhotel Tien Torens: Also by the beach, beautifully designed, and very cozy indeed! Check the link below for availability and the best prices~

Top 9 X Activities To Enjoy While In Zeeland

Enjoy the stunning wide beaches! Go swimming, surfing, supping, sailing, and canoeing. The beaches offer beach amenities such as beds, parasols, and windbreakers. Most have a beach bar and restaurant as well.

Walk along the dunes: You’re likely to find on your walk remains of German bunkers and other buildings used to fend the Germans off during WW2.

Go horse riding.

Enjoy the local cuisine: Mussels, fish, seafood, and local wine. D E L I C I O U S!

PRO TIP ~ My favorite beach bar is Strand Paviljon ~ Views, vibes, and delicious food!

Bike to explore the Zeeuwse Riviera: There are many routes to take along the dunes, passing through little villages, and the beautiful forest of course so you can enjoy the picturesque landscape. There are off-road bike routes as well.

Explore Veerse Meer and its surroundings: This is a lagoon which was separated from the North Sea in 1961 as part of the Delta plan. You can bike, hike, fish, and camp out.

Explore Schouwen-Duiveland: This place offers a great combination of beaches, nature reserves, forests, and lots of green! Boswachterij Westerschouwen by the way is the biggest and possibly the most beautiful forest in Zeeland.

Visit Het Zwin: This is a nature reserve on the Belgian-Dutch border, located in the area of Cadzand. Here you'll find an enormous variety of plants and countless bird species unique to the area.

Bonus tip- My favorite town was Middelburg!

This is the capital of Zeeland. It is situated on the central peninsula of the island.

Tips For Middelburg

• Wander the streets, courtyards, and the old center. You'll find a couple of green lungs to take a load off, have a picnic, and enjoy the atmosphere. Park Toorenvliedt is the most popular one.

• Visit the Church and The abbey.

• A fun place to have lunch or dinner is at De Klovenierdoelen.

• Walk in the harbor, the views, as well as the vibes, are great!

• Visit one of the museums in town: The Vleeshal and the Windmill to name a couple.

• Take a canal cruise: It’s always a good idea!

Have a wonderful and safe vacation!

More travel destinations in The Netherlands

Explore Amsterdam Like A Local!

The Best Nature Parks In The Netherlands

Best City Trips To Take From Amsterdam

Before you go, make sure to follow me on social media for more inspiring travel content and adventures ~ @mytrendytrail

Yours,

Diti