boiling hot day, simply head to the sloping roof terrace of NEMO (see Museums). You can reach it by walking up the steps from the Prins Hendrikkade. Although it's concrete, the wide steps are perfect to perch on – or grab one of the bean bags or deckchairs. The little sand pits (and a lot of imagination), help create a beach atmosphere – and the waterfalls running down the steps and at the top will keep you (and the kids), cool. They also occasionally have live music; Courtney Pine had an open-air sax session here in 2005. It's also a romantic spot to sit in the evenings when it's quiet for its views of an illuminated downtown Amsterdam.
HET BUITENLAND | On the edge of the Nieuwe Meer | www.buitenland.org
A piece of land on the edge of the Nieuwe Meer ('New Lake') in the south of Amsterdam was squatted a few years ago and turned into a 'free state' and alternative cultural outdoors spot. In the summer months, cool events are organised there like a Drijf-in Bioscoop (Float-in Cinema), when you can take your boat and watch a film from the water. They also have live music events, children's parties and anything that is generally conducive to chilling-out and getting away from the hectic pace of city life. See their website for the programme and route. Het Buitenland is also close to long-term squats and artists collectives Rijkshemelvaart and Nieuwe en Meer who organise sporadic events that usually aren't that well publicised. Keep an eye on those websites.
STRAND WEST | Stavangerweg 900 | (020) 544 5970 | www.strand-west.nl
'West Beach' is the epitome of urban beach chic. This huge beach has a cool retro restaurant with a cocktail and lounge bar which has a choice selection of champagnes and whiskies. Whilst it's an ideal place to rejuvenate those batteries – with the aid of hammocks, beanbags or board games – the more active can partake in some aerobics, volleyball or football. There's plenty for the kids too. They also organise barbecues and throw some pretty good parties too. And, they're open every day – all year round! The bikeless can take Bus 22 or 48 from Centraal Station there.