Beach of Schiermonnikoog

The large beach of Schiermonnikoog is kilometers long and very quiet, except for a few weeks in July and August. In the summers it is very nice here, in other words, but there is enough space thanks to the wide sandy beaches. It is a light sandy beach in front of a row of dunes at a slightly sloping sea. You can go there by bike. There are beach chairs and windbreaks for rent. The beach is kilometers long and about 200 meters wide.

The island has an almost uninterrupted 18 km long sandy coastline. Below are some of the most beautiful and popular beaches:

1. Badweg

   This beach can be reached via the Badweg, the main road that runs through the village and leads to the sea. The beach here is wide and expansive, with fine white sand that invites long walks, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. During the summer, the beaches here can be a bit busier, but there is always plenty of space for everyone to relax and enjoy the beautiful view. Here you will also find Beach Pavilion Pole 3, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while overlooking the sea.

2. Prins Bernhardweg

   This section of the beach is perfect for families, with plenty of space for children to play and adults to relax. The northernmost beach pavilion in the Netherlands, Beach Pavilion Marlin, offers delicious food and a great atmosphere. This is an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand.

3. Oosterstrand

   An untouched and expansive beach on the eastern side of the island Schiermonnikoog. It is known for its tranquility and beauty, making it the perfect place for a peaceful beach walk, sunbathing, or spotting wildlife. Accessible via the Reddingsweg or the Waterstaatpad. Once you reach the beach, you can walk eastward to reach the Oosterstrand. The Oosterstrand is a perfect spot for those seeking peace and quiet. The beach is wide and unspoiled, giving you a feeling of being far away from the inhabited world. With the sounds of the waves and seabirds, it's an ideal place for meditation or a relaxing stroll.

   During the breeding season, you will find various bird species, and it is not uncommon to spot seals on the nearby sandbanks. Additionally, if you're lucky, you may find pieces of amber among the shells and seaweed during autumn and winter.

4. De Balg

   An expansive and pristine area on the eastern side of the island Schiermonnikoog. De Balg consists of an elongated sandbar that constantly shifts and changes due to the influence of the tides and the wind. Due to its remote location, it is one of the most peaceful and tranquil places on the island, where you can truly experience the power and beauty of nature.

   A visit to De Balg is like a journey to another world. The vast expanses of sand, the towering dunes, and the endless sea create a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and soothing. It's the perfect place for long undisturbed walks, bird watching, or simply sitting and enjoying the view.

   During low tide, it is not uncommon to see seals resting on the sandbanks around De Balg. The area is also an important breeding ground for various species of seabirds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatchers.

Please note that the accessibility of the beaches may depend on the tides, and remember to follow the local rules and regulations to preserve the natural beauty of the island.

The beaches, with showers to rinse of the salt seawater, will be cleaned everyday. Besides the rescue brigade will guard the beaches and warns when there is a dangerous current or wind; a pleasant and safe feeling.

Facilities

A sunbath or a walk along the beach, playing fun or water sports. The very well maintained, white beaches of will offer you peace and quietness. Optimum facilities will tribute to the comfort and with that the holiday pleasure of the guests. It starts with accessible beach crossings and parking places. Then there are the lifeguards and the rescue brigade whom watch over the well being of the guests, with a First aid post nearby. Furthermore the many cafes, terraces and restaurants near the beach will take care of the needs for serving drinks and snacks or lunch and diner.

Flags and Their Meanings

On the beaches of Schiermonnikoog, 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 at the beach

The beach is the ideal destination for many dogs to enjoy. A Frisbee, a stick or a ball can fetch give great pleasure. And what is more fun than making a beach walk with your dog? However, on various beaches are dogs, loose or on a leash, not allowed all year.

Dogs are allowed (both loose and leased) on the beaches of Schiermonnikoog all year round. In many other parts of the island is loosening allowed. Leash is mandatory only in urban areas, in the National Park and the Rif.

However, it is prohibited that dogs go after other animals on the island. This can causes damage to these animals, resting places or residence (such as nests or dens).

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.