Katwijk Aan Zee: Beach, Art and History

These themes can help you assess the destination according to your interests. This way, you can start choosing based on specific aspects of the place rather than a general idea of a seaside holiday.

Beach and dunes

At Katwijk beach, you can enjoy the sun, sea and relaxation. People with disabilities can reach the beach via paved beach paths or in a special beach wheelchair. As access arrangements may change, please check them before your visit.

Katwijk and the dune area are part of Nationaal Park Hollandse Duinen. This connection to the park adds a distinct natural dimension to the beach theme. If you do not want to base your travel decision solely on sun and sea, you can also take the link to the national park into account.

Lighthouse and coastal history

The Vuurbaak, also known as Vierboet, is the second-oldest surviving lighthouse building in the Netherlands, after the Brandaris. Both names refer to the same structure; the comparison with the Brandaris puts its historical standing into context. This makes the Vuurbaak a clear historical point of reference when choosing where to stay.

The building is 14 metres tall; its viewing platform is about 30 metres above sea level.

The Andreaskerk was built in 1460. Today, after several storms caused the dunes to recede, it stands on the coastline; previously, it was centrally located. This gives it a different historical focus from the Vuurbaak’s age: the church is notable for its changing position relative to the coast, while the lighthouse is significant as a surviving building. Together, these themes offer different perspectives on Katwijk’s history across time.

Art and fishing heritage

Katwijk has been known as an artists’ village since 1873. The Katwijks Museum displays paintings by artists such as Bernardus Johannes Blommers, Willy Sluiter, Jan van Goyen and Jan Toorop, and has an extensive collection relating to the fishing heritage. It is housed in a former shipowner’s home dating from the early 20th century. Art, fishing heritage and the building’s former function offer different perspectives on Katwijk: the artists’ names bring its connection to art to life, while the collection highlights another aspect of the place’s history. The historical references span the 15th-century Andreaskerk, Katwijk’s reputation as an artists’ village since 1873, and the former shipowner’s home from the early 20th century.

There are also connections to art beyond the museum: the Kunstvereeniging Katwijk regularly organises activities. During the summer months, these include art workshops and talks associated with the DUNAatelier. The DUNAatelier hosts changing exhibitions. The workshops and talks are seasonal, while the exhibitions change. If you specifically want to attend an art workshop or talk, check the Kunstvereeniging Katwijk’s current schedule before your trip.

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