’S-Gravenzande combines beach access, the protected natural area of Staelduinse Bos, and a local history visible in its mills, churches and other historic buildings. When planning your visit, start by considering whether you would like to spend your days on the coast, on paths surrounded by greenery, or exploring the town’s history. You can consider the different options individually, without having to follow a set itinerary.
Beach access with different features
’S-Gravenzande has three different beach entrances. At Slag Beukel, there are two beach pavilions offering a range of activities, including blokarting and power kiting. As individual operators and activities may change, it is best to check the specific offerings before your visit.
Slag Arendsduin leads to a quiet beach without beach pavilions. This entrance is accessible only on foot or by bicycle. Surfing, yoga and running are listed as possible activities at Slag Vlugtenburg. The beaches therefore differ not only in the leisure activities mentioned, but also in the access rules at Slag Arendsduin. Check the latest access details in advance, as the rules may change.
Forest paths and routes
Staelduinse Bos is a protected natural area in the Westland, characterised mainly by old deciduous forest and a few grassland areas along its edges. Marked hiking trails lead through the area; there is also a wheelchair-accessible path and a cycling route. The Vleermuisroute is a separate 3.5-kilometre hiking trail marked with red posts. If you are looking for a longer outing, a 19-kilometre cycling and hiking tour through ’S-Gravenzande offers a different scale of route.
To get to Staelduinse Bos, take bus route 31 from Naaldwijk to the Heenweg stop on Naaldwijkseweg in ’S-Gravenzande. From the stop, it is a total walk of 25 minutes to the forest. Check the route again before setting off. This gives you a clear choice between a marked 3.5-kilometre hike, a 19-kilometre cycling and hiking tour through the town, or travelling to the forest by bus and continuing on foot.
Buildings and history
Dorpskerk was first built as a smaller church in 1815–1816 and extended in 1850, when it acquired its present form. Its current organ dates from 1899. The town’s religious history is also recorded: an image of Mary in the church gained a reputation for performing great miracles and helped make ’S-Gravenzande an important place of pilgrimage. Trapgevelhuisje was built in 1639 and is designated a Rijksmonument.
Korenmolen van Maat is an octagonal gallery-style mill, also known as a BaliemĂĽhle. It was built in 1908 and began operating in 1909; its original milling function was restored in 2020. Check its current operating status before visiting. The former railway station also recalls an earlier transport connection: the building was constructed in 1904, and the Westlandsche Stoomtramweg Maatschappij tram once stopped there. Today, the building is a private residence. Another historical detail with a culinary connection is Herberg De Spaansche Vloot, which became widely known in the 19th century for its excellent asparagus dishes.
Shopping and dining
The centre of ’S-Gravenzande has a varied range of shops, including local stores, as well as numerous restaurants. Several beach pavilions offer food and drink by the beach. For a break, you can therefore choose between two different areas: the shops and restaurants in the centre, or the dining options at the beach pavilions. Individual shops and businesses may change, so check current offerings when making specific plans.
Discover more destinations: Poeldijk, De Lier, Ter Heijde, Naaldwijk
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