Strand IJburg

I don’t know about you, but when the weather hits 22 degrees, I start planning my weekend trip to Strand IJburg. It’s that kind of place where the whole city shows up, and honestly, it’s worth it. My roommate Sara always starts checking the forecast in April, and she’s not the only one. It’s a summer thing, and it only runs from May through September, so you’ve got to time it right. The beach is on Centrum Island in the IJmeer, which is a man-made island in Amsterdam. It’s a bit of a journey from the city center, but if you take tram 26 from Centraal Station, it’s only about 25 minutes. Then walk 10 to 15 minutes and you’re there. The whole setup feels like a festival, which is a vibe I really love. There’s a main beach bar called Blijburg aan Zee, and it’s got a DJ booth, hammocks, and food trucks — not exactly a traditional beach setup, but it works. The sand is real, and you can swim in the IJmeer, which is a freshwater lake. The water quality is monitored, and it’s calm enough for swimming, but always check the conditions before you go. It’s exposed to wind, so if it’s blowing hard, you might want to skip the water and just enjoy the sand. The best times to go are in the mornings or evenings. Mornings are peaceful, and it’s a great way to start your day. By afternoon, it gets lively with DJs and people lounging around. The beach is free, but food trucks and drinks do charge, so bring cash. I’ve seen it get super crowded in July and August, so if you want a quieter experience, go in May or early June. I’ve also heard that it’s easier to find a spot if you go on a Thursday rather than a Friday. My coworker Tom always says that it’s the only place in Amsterdam where you can get a beach vibe without leaving the city. It’s not just about the swimming or the sand though — it’s the whole vibe. You’re surrounded by cafes and food trucks, and the sunset here is something else. It’s not like the ocean, but it’s still beautiful. The fact that it’s free and open to everyone is a bonus, but just know that it can get packed, especially during peak season. If you're going to the beach and want to make sure you’re not stuck in a crowd, go early or later in the day. It’s also a good idea to bring a towel and sunscreen — it’s not like the beach is equipped with those. If you’re into a more relaxed setting, maybe try the quieter spots on the island. But for the full IJburg experience, the main beach is where it’s at. If you’re planning a trip, check if that deal’s still on — the beach is seasonal, so it's worth double-checking the opening dates. It’s definitely one of those places that makes you feel like you’re on vacation, even though you’re still in Amsterdam.