The thermometer hits 30°C and Amsterdam transforms. Locals drag out their towels, tram 26 fills up with people in swimwear, and suddenly everyone is asking the same question: where can you actually swim in this city?
The canals are off the table — they’re busy waterways with boats, barges and water taxis passing through all day, and swimming is prohibited. But Amsterdam has something better: over a dozen proper swimming spots, from full-on sandy beaches with lifeguards and showers to quiet, locals-only lakes where you’ll barely share the water with anyone. And since 2025, you can even take an official dip right in the city centre.
Can you swim in the Amsterdam canals?
No — and we’d strongly advise against it. The canals are active waterways with continuous boat traffic, and currents can be unpredictable. Swimming in the canals is officially prohibited. The water quality is not monitored for swimmers either. Save your energy for the real spots below.
For years, Amsterdam had no official swimming spot in the centre. That changed in early 2025 when Marineterrein Binnenhaven — the inner harbour of the former naval complex — became Amsterdam’s first officially approved central swimming location. Water quality had been monitored for years, and the province finally gave it the green light. The result: a swim spot right next to NEMO, with views of Amsterdam Centraal and the IJ. Water quality and temperature are displayed on screens at the site and on the Marineterrein website. No lifeguards — swim at your own risk.
Overview: all swimming spots in Amsterdam
Not sure which spot suits you best? Here’s a quick overview of all locations.
| Swimming spot | Area | Official? | Best for | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marineterrein Binnenhaven | Centre | ✅ Official | City views, quick dip | None on-site |
| Berlagebrug rowing club | South (Amstel) | ⚠️ Unofficial | Social, sunbathing | Nearby cafés |
| Sloterplas | West | ✅ Official | Families, urban beach | Ladders, beach area |
| Gaasperplas | Southeast | ✅ Official | Full beach day | Toilets, showers, food stalls |
| De Nieuwe Meer | South | ✅ Official | Clean water, multiple beaches | Beach areas |
| De Hoge Dijk | Southeast | ✅ Official | Quiet, families with toddlers | Paddling pool, beach |
| ‘t Twiske | North | ✅ Official | Day trip, nature | 10+ swim areas |
| Bogortuin | East (Java-Eiland) | ⚠️ Unofficial | Relaxed sunbathing | Nearby cafés |
| Diemerpark | East (IJburg) | ✅ Official | Quiet, less crowded | None |
| Strand IJburg | East (IJburg) | ✅ Official | City beach, events, social | Full facilities, beach bar |
| Durgerdammerdijk | North | ⚠️ Unofficial | Quick dip | None |
| Ouderkerkerplas | South | ⚠️ Unofficial | Spacious, quiet, by bike | Food stall |
| Borneokade | East (Zeeburg) | ⚠️ Unofficial | Quick dip from jetty | None |
✅ Official = water quality is regularly tested and published on zwemwater.nl. ⚠️ Unofficial = swim at your own risk.
All swimming spots in Amsterdam — the full guide
1. Marineterrein Binnenhaven
Amsterdam’s most exciting swimming addition in years. The inner harbour of the Marineterrein — a former naval complex that has been transformed into a creative and public space — is now the city’s first official central swim location. Walk there in minutes from Amsterdam Centraal, jump in, and take in the views of NEMO, the IJ waterway and the harbour skyline. Water quality and temperature are posted live on screens at the site and on the Marineterrein website. There are no lifeguards and no facilities — bring your own gear and swim at your own risk. Accessible on foot or by bike from Centraal Station.
2. Berlagebrug rowing club
A classic Amsterdam summer spot. The rowing club on the Amstel river, right next to the Berlage Bridge, draws locals for sunbathing on the jetty and a dip in the river. It’s 5 minutes from Amstel station — one of Amsterdam’s best-connected transport hubs (train, metro and tram all stop here). Café Hesp is right around the corner for a cold drink after your swim. The Amstel is an active waterway, so stay close to shore and be aware of the current.
3. Sloterplas
Amsterdam West’s best option for a swim. The Sloterplas is a large lake set in the middle of the green Sloterpark — a proper urban escape. Take tram 7 or 14 and get off at “Sloterpark”. The designated swimming area is on the southeastern shore of the lake, with ladders for getting in and out safely. On hot days it attracts a loyal crowd of regulars and families. A solid choice for a relaxed afternoon.
4. Gaasperplas
The gold standard for a proper beach day in Amsterdam. Gaasperplas is a large, officially monitored swimming lake in the southeast, complete with a sandy shore, lifeguards in summer, playgrounds, free toilets and showers, and food stalls. Metro 53 gets you there from Centraal Station in around 20 minutes. There’s enough room for everyone, and the park around the lake is perfect for a walk when you’ve had enough swimming. Our top pick for families and those who want the full package.
5. De Nieuwe Meer
A big lake on the southern edge of the city with multiple official swim areas and consistently good water quality. You can choose from several beach spots, some busier and some more secluded. The easiest way to get there is by bus towards Schiphol Airport — get off at ‘Anderlechtlaan’ or ‘Oude Haagse Weg’. A smart option if you’re heading to or from the airport and want to squeeze in a final swim before your flight.
6. De Hoge Dijk
One of Amsterdam’s most under-the-radar swimming spots. This quiet little lake in the southeast sits near a golf course and has a designated swim area, a separate paddling pool for small children, and a small beach. It never gets very busy, which is precisely the appeal. From Holendrecht or Abcoude station it’s about a 20-minute walk; alternatively hop on a local bus. Perfect when you want water without the crowds.
7. ‘t Twiske
If you’re happy to go a little further out of the city, ‘t Twiske park north of Amsterdam is genuinely worth it. It has over 10 official swimming areas spread through a beautiful nature reserve with walking and cycling routes. By bike from Centraal Station it takes about 30 minutes; by public transport take bus 392 and get off at ‘Kolksloot’. The extra distance keeps the crowds thin, making it one of the most relaxed and spacious swimming options near Amsterdam. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
8. Bogortuin
A large grassy waterfront area on Java-Eiland, east of the city centre. The Bogortuin is more of a sunbathing spot with water access than a structured beach — no real facilities, but a relaxed vibe and cafés within easy walking distance. Tram 10 or buses 48 and 65 take you to Java-Eiland. Come prepared with your own food and drinks, and expect a mostly local crowd.
9. Diemerpark
The quieter, more relaxed counterpart to the busier Strand IJburg nearby. Diemerpark is in the IJburg neighbourhood and is an officially designated swim spot surrounded by green space. No facilities on site, so bring everything you need. A great choice for those who want water, space and peace without fighting for a towel-sized patch of sand.
10. Strand IJburg
Amsterdam’s main city beach. Located in the IJburg neighbourhood, Strand IJburg is a proper sandy beach with designated swimming areas, a beach bar and food options, and a great summer atmosphere. Tram 26 from Centraal Station gets you there in about 25 minutes. On warm evenings there’s often music, and weekends get genuinely lively. One of our favourites.
11. Durgerdammerdijk
A quiet dipping spot in Amsterdam North, good for a spontaneous swim rather than a planned beach day. Bus 37 from Amsterdam Muiderpoort towards Molenwijk will drop you close. No shade, no facilities — but if you’re cycling through the area on a hot day, it’s a perfectly good excuse to cool off.
12. Ouderkerkerplas
A spacious lake south of Amsterdam that barely makes most tourist guides — which is part of why locals love it. It’s not easy to reach by public transport, so the best way is by bike through the Amstel river landscape (a beautiful ride in itself). You’ll find both sand and grass to lay your towel on, multiple beach spots to choose from, and a food stall for drinks and snacks. Rarely overcrowded.
13. Borneokade
A jetty in the Zeeburg district in East Amsterdam where locals dive straight into the deep water from the quayside. It’s an unofficial spot with no facilities and no shade — better for a quick jump than a full afternoon. Swim at your own risk. Reachable by tram or bus from the city centre.
14. Duinrell Tikibad (day trip)
Not in Amsterdam, but worth mentioning if you’re travelling with kids. The Duinrell Tikibad water park near The Hague has both indoor and outdoor pools and 21 water slides stretching over 1.5km. A great option when the weather turns or when the little ones need something a bit more thrilling than a lake.
Tips before you go swimming in Amsterdam
- Check water quality — before heading out, check zwemwater.nl for live water quality data at all official swim locations. After heavy rain, some spots temporarily dip in quality.
- Swimming season — the official outdoor swimming season runs from 1 May to 1 October. Outside these dates, water is no longer monitored and most facilities close.
- Official vs unofficial — official spots have tested and monitored water. Unofficial spots (marked ⚠️ in the table) are swim-at-your-own-risk locations where water quality is not guaranteed.
- What to bring — most spots outside Gaasperplas have limited or no facilities. Pack your own towel, sunscreen, water, and snacks.
- Getting there — Amsterdam’s public transport network covers most spots on this list. Ouderkerkerplas and De Hoge Dijk are best reached by bike. Use the map below to plan your route.
FAQ about swimming in Amsterdam
Can you swim in the canals of Amsterdam?
No. Swimming in the canals is prohibited. The waterways are busy with boats and the water is not monitored for swimmers. Use one of the designated swim spots on this list instead.
Is open water swimming in Amsterdam safe?
At officially designated locations, yes. Water quality is tested regularly during the swimming season (1 May – 1 October) and results are published on zwemwater.nl. At unofficial spots, swim at your own risk — especially after heavy rainfall.
Which swimming spot is best for families with young children?
Gaasperplas is the top choice — it has lifeguards in summer, playgrounds, free toilets and showers, and food stalls. De Hoge Dijk also has a separate paddling pool specifically for small children.
Is there a proper beach in Amsterdam?
Yes — Strand IJburg is Amsterdam’s main city beach, with sand, a designated swim zone, a beach bar and a great summer atmosphere. Tram 26 from Centraal Station takes you there in about 25 minutes.
When does the swimming season start in Amsterdam?
The official open water swimming season runs from 1 May to 1 October. During this period, water quality at official locations is monitored and published weekly.
Which swimming spot is closest to Amsterdam city centre?
Since 2025, Marineterrein Binnenhaven is the closest official swimming spot to the centre — a short walk from Centraal Station with views of the IJ and NEMO.