Paal 69 is an oasis in the hustle and bustle of Zandvoort

Zandvoort's once laid-back beach life now seems completely in the grip of commerce and has become a monoculture of restaurant next to restaurant. With the return of Formula 1 to the village, this development has gained tremendous momentum. Many beach bars now look like well-oiled machines that prefer to see their customers make way for new "fresh" customers after an hour and a half. All of Zandvoort? No, definitely not! A small enclave in the southernmost tip of Zandvoort continues to bravely resist commercial domination: Paal 69.

With the nude beach as a buffer, Paal 69 is an oasis in the Zandvoort hectic. From beach club Tijn Akersloot, it is a ten-minute walk through the sand to reach this new gem on the west coast. The extra effort pays off, because Paal 69 feels like an idyllic island where everything is possible. Sometimes you have to squeeze your arm to see that you are not dreaming, when suddenly three deer from the adjacent Waterleidingduinen come walking by. 

"Paal 69 is a small community, a village that is constantly changing and where everyone, young and old, is welcome. A vibrant place where there is something fun to do every day."

Away from all the crowds and screaming, at Paal 69 it's like you've crawled through the "rabbit hole. Suddenly you are surrounded by an old English double-decker, a giant teepee, a huge chess set, a giant swing, trampolines, a sauna, a hot tub, footvolley courts and most importantly, a real old-fashioned beach vibe. Anything goes, no one makes a fuss. There is a party and family atmosphere at the same time. 

The beach bar is old-school. Three types of beer, a simple menu, but all with quality. Cozy well-seated benches make up the terrace where everyone completely relaxes. Food is provided by constantly different food trucks, all chosen for one thing: quality. 

Surrounded by campfires and hundreds of small lights, Paal 69 is totally a dream spot after dark. Its location, so far from civilization gives a sense of freedom, as if you were on an uninhabited tropical island, and that in Zandvoort. Don't believe it? Jump through the rabbit hole and come see for yourself. TXT: Sander Schomaker