Amsterdam is known for a lot of things, but not for its summers! So, when the sun comes out – so does the whole city. Until a few years ago, this meant heading to crowded beaches by the sea and being stuck in a traffic jam in a tin can of a car as temperatures rose and tempers flared. Then someone had a marvellous idea: instead of going to the beach – bring the beach to Amsterdam! Since then a variety of so-called 'Urban Beaches' have sprung up. However, with the shifting sands of time and all that, check their websites to see if – and when – they're open.
A charming olde world beach replete with sand and brighly coloured tents, shacks – and even a little ferris wheel – is set up annually somewhere from June to September. The location changes each year (it's like a travelling circus), so check the website. Whilst you're not allowed to bring picnics, they do have some rather tasty tapas and cocktails to hand, courteousy of Cantina Mobile and other food stalls. On good weather days, they serve more substantial meals. And on bad weather days, they simply shut shop. It's also here, they generally have the superb Pluk De Nacht film festival in August.
BLIJBURG | Bert Haanstrakade 2004 | (020) 416 0330 | www.blijburg.nl
The most creative and culturally-oriented of Amsterdam's 'city beaches' is the Ibiza-style Blijburg (Happyville) at the end of 'fast tram' number 26 from Centraal Station. It faced closure in 2005 as the redeveloping IJburg, was swallowing it up. However, support by local residents and urbanites alike saw that before the developers tucked in, it was simply moved a little further down the beach. The location isn't as good (there's no longer a swing or a decent view across the water), but it's still pretty wonderful and the ultimate hangout for boho's, beach babes... and their babies (be they human or canine). The restaurant serves inexpensive and substantial meals; there's regular live music and, every weekend, there's parties. Unlike most of the urban beaches, it also strives to open at least at weekends most of the year round. Check the website for opening times before setting out, however: it's quite a trek out of the centre (and back), if you're on your trusty bicycle. It's my favourite place in Amsterdam...