Water sports locations in Zeeland
When it comes to water sports, with its expansive bodies of water, wide beaches and open sea, Zeeland is a real Walhalla. Whether you’re coming to paddleboard, surf, dive or sail, Zeeland has something for everyone. Discover what these water sports locations have to offer and find out for yourself why Zeeland is the ideal place for your aquatic sport.
Grevelingenmeer
The Grevelingenmeer, the largest body of freshwater in the Netherlands, is perfect both for relaxation and active water sports. Whether it’s for paddleboarding, sailing, canoeing or the kick of kite-surfing you’re looking for, the limited currents and fresh sea breezes are suitable for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts.
In addition, the Grevelingenmeer is a great location for diving, with clear water and varied underwater wildlife. Surrounding the lagoon are many yachting marinas and holiday parks which offer great opportunities for water sports activities.
Veerse Meer
The Veerse Meer is at the very centre of Zeeland. Thanks to its calmer waters, this is the best place for beginners who want to hone their skills at a slower tempo. Because of its shallow shoreline, it’s also ideal for families with younger children, who can play here in safety.
Popular activities include sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and paddleboarding. Water-skiing is also a favourite pastime here: it even has a water-skiing jump! You can also discover countless uninhabited islands in the Veerse Meer. There are plenty of places surrounding the lagoon that rent out water sports equipment and schools for lessons and supervision.
Oosterschelde
The Oosterschelde estuary, which forms the largest national park in the Netherlands, is one of the top destinations for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its currents mean that it is suited more for experienced practitioners. The large expanses of water provide ideal conditions for sailing, windsurfing and kite-surfing.
What makes this spot additionally special is its exceptional biodiversity. The Oosterschelde is home to cuttlefish, porpoises, rare birds and thousands of plant species. There are several diving centres in the park which organise excursions to visit the wonderful underwater wildlife.
Westerschelde
The Westerschelde is a challenging sea arm which stretches from the Belgian border to the North Sea. It’s ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Intrepid sailors, kite-surfers and scuba divers can put their skills to the test against the strong currents, the unpredictable winds and special diving spots. Because of the busy shipping lanes, it’s important to keep an eye on the navigation.
More sedate water sports, such as paddleboarding or canoeing, are not suited to the Westerschelde because of the strong currents and the intensive sea traffic.
Zeeland’s coast
Zeeland’s coast is a joy to behold! Domburg, Renesse and Zoutelande are top-class resorts for kite-surfers and windsurfers, thanks to the strong winds and expansive sands. Nieuwvliet-Bad offers calmer conditions for kite-surfers and divers, whilst Cadzand-Bad is perfect for paddleboarding, sailing and windsurfing in more placid waters.
Sailing enthusiasts can pit their skills on the open sea, and the shallow bays are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, with Brouwersdam as the most popular spot. The Zeeland coastline has something to offer everyone, from action to relaxation.
