Castricum Aan Zee

Castricum aan Zee is a popular surf spot on the Dutch North Sea coast, just west of Castricum in North Holland. It’s known for being one of the more consistent beach breaks in the Netherlands, with sandy bottom and shifting peaks that work well for surfing, bodyboarding, and kitesurfing depending on conditions.

What to expect

• Wave type: Beach break
• Bottom: Sand
• Conditions: Waves are highly dependent on swell, wind direction, tide, and sandbanks, so the shape can change often.
• Best winds: Offshore or cross-offshore winds from the east are generally preferred.
• Best swell: North to northwest swell tends to produce the best surf.

Skill level

• Suitable for beginners to intermediate surfers on smaller, cleaner days.
• Can become more challenging on bigger swells, stronger currents, or crowded days.

Vibe and access

• Easy access from the beach area at Castricum aan Zee, with parking and facilities nearby.
• It’s a well-known local surf area, so it can get busy when conditions are good.
• The atmosphere is laid-back and beachy, with dunes and a wide sandy shoreline.

Things to keep in mind

• The North Sea can be cold year-round, so a wetsuit is usually necessary.
• Watch for strong currents, rips, and rapidly changing conditions.
• Sandbanks shift frequently, so the best peak may move from session to session.