Home / Gay Guide / Netherlands / Amsterdam / Beaches

Amsterdam Gay Beaches

May 17 2026

Located right alongside the North Sea, gay Amsterdam does have a few beach options within easy reach of its city center. OK, so don't expect Barcelona-style weather or crystal clear tropical water, but what's good enough for the locals is good enough for you!

The best gay beach in Amsterdam is at Zandvoort, which you can reach within one hour of leaving Central Station. Come summer, you'll find most of Amsterdam's gay community packing to the south side of this beach and splashing about. In fact, it's a beautfiful spot to swim and catch some tan.

If you don't want to travel quite as far, another option is Nieuwe Meer, a lake which allows naked sunbathing (and other activities in the nearby woods!).

Het Marnix

Marnixlein 1

Nude swimming (non-sexual) every Tuesday evening with many gay guys.

Nieuwe Meer

Just outside the city center of Amsterdam, naked sunbathing is allowed near this lake. The nearby forest is Amsterdam’s biggest cruising area, all year round.

Zandvoort

Only 30 minutes from Central Station, Zandvoort is the best gay beach option in the Amsterdam area. After walking from the station for about 20 minutes, you’ll hit the gay beach; head for the south side (look out for beachclub Eldorado). There’s a...