Huisduinen is located at the very tip of North Holland, on the edge of Den Helder. The village exudes history, with traces of whalers, Vikings, and Napoleon. At the same time, it's a place of tranquility, with sea views, nature reserves, and the feeling of a small, close-knit village. Come here for the peace, the stories, and the views that never tire.
One of Huisduinen's biggest attractions is Fort Kijkduin. Built by order of Napoleon, it forms the heart of the Stelling Den Helder (Fortress Den Helder). Today, it houses an impressive museum and a North Sea aquarium. Walk along the old walls, wander through casemates, and come face to face with the skeleton of Chris the Sperm Whale. From the fort, you can walk straight onto the sea wall, with views of Texel, De Razende Bol, and the vast sea.
At 63.45 meters, Lange Jaap is the tallest cast-iron lighthouse in Europe. Built in 1877, this sixteen-sided tower has guided sailors on the Marsdiep canal for almost 150 years. Although currently inaccessible for safety reasons, the tower remains a coastal icon and a landmark for Den Helder. A walk along the dike allows you to admire it from all sides. Its red color makes it particularly photogenic, contrasting beautifully with the blue sky and green dune landscape.
The nature around Huisduinen is rugged, diverse, and surprisingly close. You can walk or cycle straight into the Grafelijkheidsduinen, a vast nature reserve with dune valleys, ancient deciduous trees, and open plains.
Along the way, you might encounter Scottish Highlanders or Konik horses. You'll hear the sound of the sea, the call of seagulls, and the silence of sandy paths that wind between beachgrass and dune hills. Along the seawall, you'll look out over the Marsdiep canal, where, with a bit of luck, you might spot seals sunbathing on the Razende Bol.
The sunsets here are magnificent, with colors that constantly change. Nature and culture blend seamlessly in Huisduinen. Wherever you look, there's space, views, and a sense of freedom.
Post 0 is much more than just a wooden beach post. It's the official starting point of the Dutch coastline and stands right on the border between the North Sea and the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Once conceived as a measuring point by hydraulic engineer Jan Blanken, this place is now primarily an iconic landmark for hikers, nature lovers and photographers.
You'll find it at the foot of the seawall near Huisduinen, where the sea and the Wadden Sea meet. The simplicity of this spot—a single stake in the sand, surrounded by water and sky—perhaps makes it so special. A silent witness to centuries of coastal management.
Huisduinen exudes history. Traces of whaling, the Battle of Kijkduin, and World War II are visible everywhere. The village is also home to the Atlantic Wall Centre, where you can learn more about the German occupation and the coastal defenses.
Art also has a place here. Artist Ruud van de Wint had his studio in the village, and a street is named after him. Stroll through the village and you'll discover art on the sea wall, the old church with its unique interior, and perhaps even a cultural exhibition or concert.
Huisduinen beach is expansive and tranquil, with views over the Marsdiep canal and the Wadden Sea. You can walk straight onto the sand from the seawall. Ideal for a brisk walk, a refreshing dip, or simply a breath of fresh air. Because the beach is relatively unknown to the public, it feels like discovering a well-kept secret. You have plenty of space here, even on sunny days. With a bit of luck, you'll see seals swimming offshore, while the Lange Jaap river watches over the landscape in the distance.
Huisduinen has a surprising amount to offer in the culinary world. Enjoy lunch or dinner at Strandpaviljoen Factor 30, right on the beach. Find peace and quiet at Nogal Wiedus by the sea, or opt for a leisurely evening at restaurant C'est la Vie in the Grand Hotel Beatrix, awarded a Bib Gourmand. Storm aan Zee also offers views, hospitality, and delicious dishes.
In Huisduinen, you'll spend the night in a place where tranquility and views are a given. You can choose from hotels, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals, all within walking distance of the sea, dunes, and Fort Kijkduin. Some accommodations are right on the dike, others in the heart of the village. There are charming spots for couples, comfortable options for families, and unique locations like the old coast guard tower. Whether you stay one night or a little longer, in Huisduinen you'll sleep peacefully, wake up refreshed, and be out for a walk or a day at the beach in no time.
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