Planning a day of water sports? Many water sports activities take place around Wijk aan Zee. That’s why it’s important to do this as safely as possible. This way, we can all enjoy it together: whether you’re going kitesurfing, windsurfing, or wave surfing. Below are general tips and rules for when you go water sports:

Zoning of the beach

The beach is for everyone: water sports enthusiasts and recreational visitors. Therefore, the municipalities of Beverwijk and Velsen have established rules. Part of this includes dividing the beach into zones. The boundary is located at the beach pavilion Dittis SunSea. To the north (towards Heemskerk) of the pavilion is the family beach. To the south (towards the piers) is the activity beach. The lifeguard service does not have an enforcement role: this responsibility lies with the police and the enforcement teams of the municipalities.

On the Wijk aan Zee family beach, dogs are not allowed between May 1 and October 1 from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Additionally, activities such as (kite)surfing, boating, and kite flying with more than one line are not permitted here. The beach is primarily intended as a recreational area.

On the activity beach, several zones have been created. These can be recognized by the poles with zone numbers on the beach. The following activities are permitted in these zones:

Zone 3 (recreation area)

In zone three, the following activities are permitted:

  • Beach recreation
  • Swimming
  • Ball sports (excluding golf)
  • Walking

Zone 2 (activity beach)

In zone two, the following activities are permitted:

  • Blokarting
  • Kite flying
  • Kitesurfing
  • Ball sports (excluding golf)
  • Horseback riding
  • Kite buggying
  • Activities organized by event agencies
  • Walking

For zone 2, a 40-meter strip up to the high-water line is kept clear for walkers, ensuring they are not disturbed by the activities.

Zone 1 (recreation area)

  • Beach recreation
  • Swimming
  • Ball sports (excluding golf)
  • Walking
  • Make sure you are adequately trained for the sport you plan to practice. Always take a course with an instructor.
  • Know your limits (and what you can’t do). Are the waves too high or the wind too strong? Come back later.
  • Water sports should be practiced with at least two people. Always keep an eye on each other so that the other can get help if things go wrong.
  • Always keep an eye on the weather reports. Be aware that the wind can pick up or die down.
  • When preparing your equipment, check that the emergency systems are functioning properly.
  • Carry an emergency signal to alert rescue services in case you get into trouble.
  • Mark your equipment with your name and phone number, so we can always reach the owner if we find it.
  • Never leave your equipment unattended (on the water). This can lead to unnecessary search-and-rescue operations.
  • Did you accidentally leave something behind? Report it as soon as possible to our rescue posts, by phone at +31 251 – 37 43 45 or via the coastguard center.