The beach of Zoutelande is one of the most popular beaches in Zeeland – and for good reason. This long sandy beach stretches for about five kilometres and faces directly south, making it unique in the Netherlands. Thanks to its sunny location, Zoutelande is often affectionately called the ‘Zeeland Riviera’.
South-facing beach:Zoutelande has the only true south-facing beach in the Netherlands, giving you the most sunshine hours in the country – perfect for sun lovers.
Space & tranquillity: Wide dunes, a clean beach, and plenty of room to relax or play with the whole family.
Typical Walcheren: Like other beaches on Walcheren, you'll find iconic groynes, charming beach cabins, and a friendly, laid-back vibe.
Shopping & strolling: Just behind the dunes lies the village centre with the Langstraat – a lively shopping street – and a unique seaside promenade with sea views.
Beach holiday vibes: The combination of sun, sea, shops, and terraces makes Zoutelande the perfect destination for a full beach day or summer holiday.
Award-Winning Beaches
The beaches of Zoutelande have been recognised multiple times for their excellent quality, cleanliness, and environmentally friendly management.
Blue Flag: In 2024, the beach of Zoutelande received the 31thBlue Flag award – an international recognition for clean bathing water, excellent facilities, and safe beach management.
Quality Coast Award: Awarded in 2017 for sustainable tourism that respects both people and nature.
Cleanest Beach in the Netherlands: The municipality of Zoutelande earned this title in 2003 and 2004.
The beaches of Zoutelande are clean, well-maintained and equipped with all the conveniences for a relaxing day by the sea.
Daily cleaning: Every summer day, the beaches are cleaned so you can enjoy a fresh and tidy spot on the sand.
Showers: Showers are located throughout the beach to rinse off sand and seawater – ideal after swimming or playing.
Supervision & First Aid: During the summer season, lifeguards and beach patrols look after your safety. First aid stations are available at the busier entrances.
Comfort for Everyone
Whether you come to sunbathe, walk, play or enjoy watersports – the wide beaches of Zoutelande offer peace, space and comfort for all ages.
Accessibility: Many beach entrances are suitable for prams and wheelchairs. Nearby parking areas make your beach visit even easier.
Food & drink nearby: Along the beach you'll find cosy pavilions and terraces for an ice cream, lunch, drink or dinner with a sea view.
Beach Supervision in Zoutelande
At the main beaches of Zoutelande, lifeguards ensure a safe day by the sea. This way, you can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand without worry.
When: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00 in July and August, and also on weekends between 15 May and 15 September if the weather is good.
Qualified lifeguards: Trained in first aid and equipped with communication tools and rescue gear.
Lifeguard stations: Spread along the beach, clearly marked with flags and lookout points. These manned stations provide constant supervision.
Danger warnings: In case of strong currents or bad weather, you will be warned in time via flags.
Along the beaches of Zoutelande, four lifeguard posts are active.
On the beaches of Zoutelande, 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 on the Beach
For many dogs, the beach is the ultimate place to run, play, and swim. Whether it’s a seaside walk in the fresh sea breeze or a cheerful game with a frisbee or ball – dogs clearly enjoy a day by the sea. But please note: on many beaches, seasonal rules apply regarding dogs.
Only leashed dogs are allowed on the beaches of Zoutelande during the period 1 May till 15 September between 10:00 till 19:00.
Outside of the above mentioned period and time are dogs allowed (both loose and leased) on the beaches of Zoutelande.
Further, we also recommend reading the information board, with the local beach rules, which is often placed near every beach (entrance).
Frequently Asked Questions about the Beach of Zoutelande
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.
Only leashed dogs are allowed on the 