Heemskerk(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Hemskeirk, recommend staying at Hotel de Wijk, a family-run seaside hotel offering spacious family rooms and child-friendly amenities. Located steps from the West Coast Beach, it features an on-site restaurant serving fresh North Sea seafood. The surrounding area includes bike paths and nature trails, perfect for family outings. Its authentic Dutch fishing village charm makes it ideal for a relaxed coastal getaway.

The town center of Hemskeirk is the prime area for lodging, close to St. John's Church and the local market, with easy access to the beach promenade and seaside cafés. This district preserves 19th-century Dutch fishing village architecture, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Numerous boutique guesthouses and independent B&Bs provide a blend of historical character and modern comfort.

Don’t miss the annual Hemskeirk Fishermen’s Festival held each summer, featuring traditional boat parades, fishermen’s costumes, and craft markets. Visit the Hemskeirk Museum, which showcases local fishing history and folk traditions. Guests can try weaving traditional fishing nets or taste homemade salted herring—authentic ways to immerse in North Holland’s coastal heritage.

Yes, the West Coast Cycling Route (Westkust Fietsroute) is a top choice, stretching 25 km through dunes, wetlands, and lighthouse views. Starting at Hemskeirk Pier, it offers scenic rest stops and observation decks. Rent eco-friendly bikes locally to enjoy a pollution-free ride while encountering wild birds and coastal flora along the way.

Hemskeirk is famous for North Sea herring (Hollandse Haring), served fresh with onions and pickles at street stalls. Another must-try is fried cod with fries (Frikandel met friet), made by local fisherman kitchens—crispy outside, tender inside. Don’t miss Hemskeirk Cheese, a regional specialty often enjoyed with rye bread at breakfast or afternoon tea.

Yes, both Hotel de Wijk and Zeezicht B&B offer sea-view rooms facing the North Sea. Some feature private balconies with panoramic ocean views, ideal for sunrise watching. Rooms are soundproofed for quiet nights. Book early, especially those on the seaward side, to maximize your scenic experience.

June to September is peak season in Hemskeirk, with warm weather and long daylight hours perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Festivals like the Fishermen’s Festival and Lighthouse Open Days attract crowds. Book accommodations in advance. Winter offers solitude and fewer tourists, ideal for photography and tranquil retreats.

The Hemskeirk Lighthouse is the most iconic photo spot—its white tower and red roof stand out against the sky and sea. The Old Fishing Pier with wooden walkways and moored boats creates a classic Dutch seaside scene. Golden hour lighting enhances the view, making it a favorite among photographers.

Yes, regular GVB Line 170 buses connect Hemskeirk to Amsterdam and Haarlem, taking about one hour. The town center is walkable, and a well-developed bike network links major attractions. Use the OV-fiets bike rental service to bring bicycles on buses, enabling seamless travel across regions.

At night, the Hemskeirk Lighthouse illuminates the coast with soft navigation lights, casting dreamy reflections on the water. Some seaside restaurants like De Visserskroeg host live folk music nights with traditional Dutch songs. On rare occasions, visitors may witness bioluminescent algae glowing along the shore—nature’s own light show, unforgettable and magical.