Nothing nicer than when the temperature rises to take a dip in natural water. In and around Amsterdam there are several canals, channels and ponds where you can swim safely and where the water is of good quality. Still, it is not an unnecessary luxury to check the water and official swimming spots in the city before you go swimming. On Swimwater.com read all about the state of our’ Amsterdam water.
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Amstel
The Amstel winds through the city center, beckoning everywhere. On the long strip next to Café Hesp's terrace and around the corner from restaurant Trump you can easily enter the water. On hot days, this ‘boulevard’ creates the so-called ‘Costa del Weesper. Be careful, there are many boats sailing there. Address: zuideinde Weesperzijde.
The Navy Yard
On the edge of downtown, the Marineterrein feels like a hidden oasis. Here you swim between modern jetties and historic buildings, overlooking the Scheepvaartmuseum. The water is surprisingly clean and steps make it easy to get in and out. On sunny days, this is a relaxing hotspot for urban cooling, although it can get crowded. On the grounds you'll also find Kuuma, a sauna overlooking the water for when you weren't hot enough. Address: Kattenburgerstraat 5.
Entrepot dock
Swimming with a view of elephants and giraffes, and that just in Amsterdam. In the Entrepotdok there are several small jetties near Artis For sunbathing and jumping off. Beware: there is a lot of boating traffic. Address: Entrepot Dock.
The Ceuvel
Swimming at Ceuvel is raw and quirky, exactly like the place itself. On the industrial edge of Noord, you'll find a creative breeding ground overlooking the waters of the Johan van Hasselt Canal. Officially, swimming is not allowed anywhere here, but on warm days you can still see people sliding into the water. Don't expect a beach, but do expect a unique, alternative setting. Address: Short Poppy Road 4.
Park Schinkel Islands
Behind the Olympic Stadium is a green oasis. A huge hill with grass where you can picnic and sunbathe. You can also swim: take a dip from the wooden jetties in the Olympia Canal or the Schinkel. Be careful though, because quite a lot of boats pass by there too. Address: Jaagpad 17.
Park Somerlust
In the bend of the Amstel River, near the new residential area Amstelkwartier, you can enter the water via a stairway. The first stretch is shallow and also suitable for children. Watch out for the slippery stones in the water. The adjacent lawn is a great place to sit and is easily accessible by bicycle and public transport. Handy: there are also many catering establishments such as George Marina and tHouse on the Amstel River nearby. Address: Korte Ouderkerkerdijk 16.
Borneo Quay
The swimming jetty on Borneo Island is a favorite among local residents, who arrive en masse with their towel slung over their shoulder. For years, the popularity of the swimming spot has led to fuss in the neighborhood because some local residents experience nuisance; it even led to a lawsuit against the municipality. There is therefore stricter enforcement. Fancy a cozy lunch by the water? At The Harbour Club it is fine to relax on the terrace. Address: Borneo Quay.
New Lake
Swimming in clean water with views of the South Axis skyline. Several beaches, some more hidden than others. At the Noordoever and the Oeverlanden you can have a good time. On the Amsterdamse Bos side, you'll find WaterDeck, a 30-meter-long floating deck from which you can jump into the water. Fancy a fancy lunch? Restaurant Bosch on New Lake is a hidden, culinary gem. Address: New Lake.
IJburg Beach
The IJburg beach on Pampuslaan in IJburg has beach surveillance and the municipality regularly checks the conditions in the swimming water. On the strip along the water you will find several pavilions and kiosks for snacks and drinks, supplanken rental and other fun entertainment. Address: 501 Pampus Avenue.
The Stone Head
In the heat, many Amsterdammers also find their way to the Stenen Hoofd, an old pier in West. The Amsterdam Port does warn against this spot: it is a through shipping route and boaters have very poor visibility of swimmers there. For a bite to eat and a drink, visit Vooges on the IJ. Address: Stone Head 1.
Sloterplas
Sloterplas is one of the largest and most versatile swimming spots in the city. Around the lake you will find several places where you can enter the water, from small beaches to jetties and grassy areas. Especially on the Sloterpark side it is lively on hot days, with local residents gathering here for sun, sports and cooling off. The water is surprisingly clean and there is plenty of room to find your own quiet spot.
Gaasperplas
For those who really want to escape the city for a while, Gaasperplas is a classic. This large, clear lake in Southeast has several beaches where you can walk right into the water. Think: vast lawns, sandy beaches and plenty of space to sunbathe or picnic. Ideal for a whole day outdoors, with the feeling that you are far outside Amsterdam. Address: Gaasperpark.
