During real heat it can be tempting to jump into the Spaarne, but this is forbidden due to safety reasons. Not to worry, in and around Haarlem you have unique places to cool down during the hot summer days. We list the best options.
Swimming pool The Houtvaart
A Haarlem icon and yet undiscovered by many: outdoor swimming pool The Houtvaart. Behind the facade of the monumental building from 1882 you will find a 50-meter pool with a diving board, introduction pool, a play pool, a large sunbathing area and catering facilities for a drink and a snack. Don't expect slides or other attractions. Here you really taste the atmosphere of swimming pools as they were once intended. The water is heated largely by solar collectors, so for those with cold water fears, a warm day for a visit is recommended. If you swim your laps early in the morning as the sun rises, you can hear birds chirping. It feels like being abroad.
The Veerplas
On the east side of Haarlem you will find Veerplas; also called the PTT-meertje by mosquitoes. This lake is part of recreation area Spaarnwoude, where you can do all kinds of (sports) activities. The Veerplas is surrounded by greenery and you can lay down your towel in the grass. There is also a sandy beach where the shallow water is partially turned off, so children can safely romp around. Instead of your towel, you can also take a seat on the terrace of the Veerkwartier. Here you can go for breakfast, lunch, sweet, snacks and drinks. Parking is free.
Dune Lake 't Wed
Dune Lake 't Wed is hidden like an oasis in the middle of the Kennemer dunes. On sunny days it is lovely to stay here. There is a parking lot with restaurant and water playground at the entrance to the Koevlak. For the smaller kids it is already a paradise. From this spot you can walk to the dune lake in a few minutes. Biking is also a fine option; meandering through the dune area you will get there in no time. If you are lucky, you will encounter the "Big Five". These are Scottish Highlanders, deer, Royal Horses, foxes and rabbits. The beach around 't Wed is spacious, so everyone can easily find a spot; even in the shade. For children, the shallow water is fenced off. Sanitary facilities are available, catering facilities are not. So bring your own food and don't forget to leave this beautiful piece of nature as you found it.
Suppen through downtown
Discovering Haarlem from the water can of course be done leisurely from a boat. But if you want to challenge yourself, it is highly recommended to do so from a supboard. At Supflow you can rent supboards and paddles, with which you can explore the city center yourself. Paddle down the Spaarne, across the canals and along the greenery at Schotersingel and Kloppersingel. It is also possible to book a lesson or tour. You then set off with an instructor. Will you succeed in not falling into the water?
The sea
The beach, of course, can be found in this list. In many cases you can get there by bike in half an hour. Whether you choose Zandvoort, Bloemendaal or Parnassia, the sea air is never far away. The wide beaches are great for year-round relaxation. With a wide range of beach pavilions, there really is something for everyone here. Get active too: rent a supboard or take lessons. You can also go for surfing or kite lessons.
Linnaeushof water playground
You'll find this playground in Bennebroek, but it's so close to town and the highlight of the summer for kids that it shouldn't be missed. Linnaeushof is the largest playground in Europe. Climbing in a pirate's nest, riding a pedal boat or having a ball on the mini-golf course; it's all possible. At Linnaeushof, children still play for real. The more than 350 play equipment and attractions offer children the opportunity to play actively. Using their own energy and imagination is the main focus. The play equipment is spread over the preschool playground and the main playground. Even when it rains, Linnaeushof is a party, as there is a cozy indoor playground. Children can cool off in the water park the Oasis. This water park has fun play equipment where kids can have fun in the water all day long.
Mill Lake
In South Schalkwijk is the Molenplas. This is a lake on a beach where you can swim safely. There is a shallow area for children. In the grass or sand you can find a place in the sun or under a tree in the shade. You can also have fun on dry land. There is playground equipment and you can play at the water's edge with a soccer, for example. At the lake Restaurant de Molenplas. Here you can go for lunch, dinner and snacks. Nothing is better than a delicious bite to eat after a day of swimming.
Windsurfing or canoeing at Dynamite
Would you rather do an adventure activity in the water? Then go to Dynamique in Spaarndam. Dynamique is located on the Mooie Nel. This is a lake located between Haarlem and Spaarndam. At Dynamique everything related to water sports and recreation is possible. You can rent boats there, including sailboats. But also supboards and canoes. Never been on a board on the water before? No worries. The water sports center also offers lessons. So you can take sup lessons, wingfoil lessons and windsurfing lessons. The atmosphere is very friendly and relaxed. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings while on the water.
