Kitesurfing in Harlingen
Are you an advanced kiter looking for a peaceful spot to kitesurf in Friesland? Visit Harlingen Beach! Located right on the Wadden Sea, this beach offers a sandy shore scattered with shells and a soft, muddy seabed, making it ideal for kitesurfing. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the salty waters of the Wadden Sea!
A Special Location
The beach is located in the charming seaport town of Harlingen. Since Harlingen Beach is usually quiet, you can enjoy a relaxing day of kitesurfing here. Harlingen is situated on the Wadden Sea, making it unsuitable for novice kitesurfers due to the waves and current.. Keep in mind, too, that you’ll need to be able to ride upwind—at an angle against the wind—at this spot.

What You Need to Know
It’s important to note that kitesurfing is only permitted along specific parts of the coast. From the first of April to 31 August, kiting is allowed within the specially designated yellow buoys. This zone is also marked on local maps. Harlingen is situated on the Wadden Sea, so the water level fluctuates with the tides. Kitesurfers typically find the best conditions two hours before or two hours after high tide. If you kitesurf at high tide, be prepared for spots where you might not be able to stand. At low tide, you could find yourself knee-deep in mud. The optimal wind directions for this spot are northwest, west, and southwest.

Parking
Harlingen is easy to reach by car or public transportation. Driving to the kitesurf spot? Park your car in the lot at the base of the Westerzeedijk. Here, you’ll find plenty of space, and parking is free from 8.00 a.m. to midnight. Cross the steps over the dike, and voilà, you’re at your kitesurfing destination.

Discover Harlingen
After the excitement of the high waves and salty sea, it’s time to relax. Stroll along the dike and discover what Harlingen has to offer. Enjoy a hot chocolate with whipped cream or, on a warm summer’s day, cool off with some ice cream.
