Public swimming spots in Amsterdam

Public swimming spots in Amsterdam

Forget the beach (and the traffic); Amsterdam has amazing places where you can swim and tan, so check out our guide to Amsterdam's best outdoor swimming spots before jumping into your swimsuit.

When the temperature rises in Amsterdam, the locals (a.k.a. Amsterdammers) swap their sun-drenched terraces for a refreshing, natural swimming spot. These are our favorite public swimming spots for those hot summer days. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Het Nieuwe meer (‘The New Lake’)
Give the Dutch one sunbeam, and you will feast your eyes on flip-flops and locals hopping on boats. Chances are, the locals are cruising straight to the Nieuwe Meer, where you can find all kinds of beaches (and boat parties). Some beaches are so well hidden that you might end up having one all to yourself! You will relax in the middle of nature, and you won’t even realize you’re in Amsterdam!

The IJ river
The newest hotspot-slash-local-city-beach in Amsterdam: Vessel! This vibrant hangout in the Amsterdam Houthaven district offers a beautiful view over the IJ. Enjoy the sun-drenched terrace or throw out your towel on the quay. Dip your toes in the water, jump on your inflatable flamingo or go straight for a refreshing plunge in the IJ. Don't forget to look at Vessel's menu – it's full of delicious dishes to share! Grilled asparagus, burrata salad and sea bass ceviche, anyone?

Park Schinkeleilanden
An undiscovered swimming spot in the middle of the city: Park Schinkeleilanden. Next to the ‘Olympisch Stadion’ – and just around the corner of boutique hotel TWENTY EIGHT – is a green oasis where you can jump off the wooden jetties. Bring a picnic basket and roll out your towel on the green hill where some local residents are already sunbathing.

Amstel
As soon as the temperature rises, many locals go to the Amstel. This river meanders through the city and is the perfect place to enjoy the summer with your friends. Tip: there’s a good swimming spot near café Hesp. Take a splash in the water, dry off at the quay and gaze at the passing boats. Order one of the countless delicious dishes at Bam Boa, such as the teriyaki roasted cauliflower and celery truffle croquettes.

Marineterrein
The Marineterrein offers the public another place to chill. There’s a restaurant, a small park, and - of course - water access. The inner harbour is perfect for swimming (or tanning); it's a place where you have the freedom to jump in safely. Not a daredevil? No worries, there are steps on the jetties so you can get used to the temperature of the water.

Swimming with a unique view (read: elephants!)
Elephants? Alright - we’ve got your attention. You can swim in Amsterdam while looking at a zoo's elephant and giraffe enclosure! Right next to Artis, at the Entrepotdok in Amsterdam, you can splash into the water from the jetty.