7. Strolling over the village markets
In the summer months, fairs and flea markets are regularly organized in the villages on Ameland. Stroll along stalls with delicacies, clothing, toys, books, crafts, and second-hand treasures.
Summer on Ameland: sun, sea and conviviality
Summers on Ameland feel just a little different. While the mainland swelters in the heat, the sea breeze here provides cooling. The days are long, the light is clear, and the island is vibrant.
You cycle at your own pace through the varied landscape, walk along shell paths, enjoy the view over the Wadden Sea, and wander through villages where market stalls are regularly set up in the summer. Need cooling down? Then a refreshing dip in the sea is never far away.
Curious about how to make the most of Ameland this summer? Discover our 9 essential tips:
Beach and Sea
1 - Swimming and beach fun
2 - With the wind
3 - Looking for shells
Nature and active
4 - Mudflat hiking
5 - Cycling
6 - Picnicking
Tastings & more..
7 - Markets & fairs
8 - Taste the island
9 - Beach pavilions
1. Swimming and beach fun
You spread out your towel on the soft sand and step into the cool, clear water.
In the summer, lifeguards watch over all Ameland beaches and the flags clearly indicate where you can swim safely.
Pay close attention to the flags and always bring enough drinking water so you can enjoy a carefree day full of beach and swimming fun.
2. With the wind2. With the wind
Fancy an active day at the beach? Let a kite rise into the air and watch how it moves with the wind. Fun to do together and surprisingly addictive!
Prefer something a bit faster? Then beach sailing is a good option: the wind pushes you forward over the sand. This way, a day at the beach becomes a day full of movement, fresh air, and sand between your toes.
3. Searching for shells with the Beach Search Map
Along the tide line, you will find a treasure trove of shells and small crabs. With the free Beach Search Map from VVV Ameland, you learn which species you have found and discover their story. Fun to collect and recognize together with children.
You can get the Beach Search Map for free at VVV Ameland!
View our opening hours >>
Our tip: The perfect Ameland backpack
Ideal for your summer on Ameland
Looking for the ideal bag for all your summer adventures?
Our Ameland backpack is light, water-repellent, and has smart compartments for your beach gear, water bottle, and your Beach Treasure Map. This way, you keep your hands free for building sandcastles or searching for shells and are ready for any moment.
View (and order) it here and set off without worries!
More than just the beach... Nature and active!
When you say summer on Ameland, you naturally think of the beach. With more than 27 kilometers of soft sand, there is plenty of space for relaxation, adventure, or refreshment. But Ameland in the summer is more than just enjoying the breeze on the beach. After a day full of sun and sea air, you can exchange the fresh sea breeze for the vast greenery of the island, where extensive dunes and winding cycling paths invite you to discover the silence and surprising views on foot or by bike. See our tips below.
4. Mud excursions for young and old
In the summer, when the sun is shining, a mudflat excursion offers pleasant refreshment. Walk together with a guide over the exposed seabed of the Wadden Sea. Spot crabs and sea birds and learn about ebb, flow, and nature. For the little ones (4–8 years old), there is a Mini mudflat excursion of approximately 1 hour, perfectly tailored to their curiosity.
5. Cycling through dunes, forest & village
Explore Ameland by bike and discover the diverse landscape. Follow the shell path through the dunes, cycle into the forest, and take a break at a viewpoint over the Wad. Rent a bike from one of the local rental companies and set your own pace.
6. Picnic at the Oerd
Walk through the peaceful nature reserve Het Oerd with a well-filled backpack and choose a spot at the Oerdhut or the viewing platform. While you enjoy fresh sandwiches and local delicacies, you only hear birds, wind, and water.
Photo: Annelies Kamphuis
The next stop... Tasting and more...
Have you experienced the silence of the Wadden Sea and the green of the dunes? This exploration of dunes, forests, and polders not only gives you new perspectives but also fully recharges your energy. Ready for the next stop? Then follow the winding path towards one of the charming villages, where inviting streets, local markets, and artisanal delicacies await you.
8. Taste the island
Ameland surprisingly has many local products. During a walk or bike ride, you will come across them naturally: artisanal ice cream, Ameland beer, sheep cheese, beef, rapeseed oil, and potatoes from the island. The sea also provides a variety of things: oysters, mullet fillet, sea bass, and catfish. Even croquettes and chicory coffee carry a local story here.
9. Beach pavilions on Ameland for long summer evenings
After a summery day, enjoy a good meal or a drink at sunset. The beach pavilions of Ameland, each with their own atmosphere, are popular places to end the day relaxed with your feet in the sand.
Tip: come well prepared and download one of our coloring pages for your children!
Experience even more summer
Every summer Ameland is bursting with music, culture, and traditions that you do not want to miss. You have already gathered quite a few summer tips, but for those who want to experience even more, here are the events and highlights in July and August on the island. Let yourself be surprised by live performances, cozy evenings, and festivities that add just that little extra every day. Quickly see which dates you must not miss!
Events on Ameland in July and August
Madness
Artisanal Day
Midsummer Festival
Square festival
Horizontour
Rye Festival
Square party
Plantsoen Party
Nosiness
Village Festival Ballum
Summer and child-friendly activities
After the lively events, you effortlessly glide into a sun-drenched summer on Ameland, where you can enjoy even more activities, such as a relaxing beach ride or an enchanting excursion. For the children, adventure awaits at the Barefoot Path, the Krûmeltjesspoor in Ballum, and feed the ducks together at the Hollum pond. Discover all summer and children's activities here for a summer holiday full of unforgettable memories!
-
Child-friendly activities
The island feeling
Whether you come for the beach, the village life, or the nature: on Ameland, summer still feels like summer.
On Ameland, no one determines your daily schedule, except maybe the weather.
Choose for yourself whether to start the morning with a walk along the tide line, have lunch on a terrace, or take a dip in the afternoon.
Freedom is perhaps the greatest island feeling.
Book quickly and enjoy a wonderful summer holiday on Ameland!
