The Pier

Scheveningen Pier is not just a seaside boardwalk, but a true symbol of The Hague's resort district and the largest structure of its kind in the Netherlands. Located on the North Sea coast, this pier is a hub for both tourists and locals. Its modern and recognizable design, extending far into the sea, has become an integral part of the popular Scheveningen beach landscape.

The pier is a multi-level entertainment complex where everyone can find something to their liking. Here, you can not only take a stroll while enjoying the sea breeze but also get an adrenaline rush. For thrill-seekers, there is a zipline and a bungee jumping tower, while those who prefer a more relaxed experience can take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel. Its enclosed cabins offer stunning panoramic views of the coast, the city, and the endless expanse of the sea.

In addition to the attractions, the pier is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. It is the perfect place to try local delicacies, have a cocktail at sunset, or simply relax while watching the surfers. Thanks to its unusual two-level design, where the lower deck is covered, the pier is comfortable to visit in any weather. It is an iconic destination that combines outdoor relaxation with vibrant urban entertainment.

To get the latest information on attraction opening hours, special events, and prices, it is recommended to contact the pier management directly. All necessary details can be found on the official website or inquired about by phone.

Scheveningen Pier offers visitors a wealth of experiences, from extreme adventures to peaceful contemplation. For the bravest, there is a 60-meter panoramic tower where you can take a thrilling bungee jump over the waves of the North Sea. This is one of the most popular attractions, drawing adrenaline junkies from all over the world. Additionally, a zipline starts from the pier, allowing you to soar over the beach and water with the wind in your hair.

Beyond the attractions, the pier is a magnificent vantage point for observing the many events that take place in The Hague. It offers a great view of the coastline during events such as the famous New Year's Dive, when thousands of brave souls plunge into the icy water. The pier also becomes a focal point during "Flag Day" (Vlaggetjesdag), a festival celebrating the start of the herring season, and the International Fireworks Festival, which draws huge crowds.

For those who prefer a quieter pace, the pier offers leisurely walks with panoramic views of the shoreline and the city. From here, you can admire the famous Ferris wheel, whose cabins rise directly over the sea, creating an unforgettable silhouette against the sunset. It is the perfect place to enjoy the seascape, take striking photos, and feel the unique atmosphere of the Netherlands' premier resort.

Getting to Scheveningen Pier is quite simple, as it is located in the most popular coastal district of The Hague. The city itself has excellent transport links with other major cities in the Netherlands, making a trip to the coast convenient for tourists. Most travelers arrive at one of The Hague's two main railway stations — Den Haag Centraal or Hollands Spoor — from where you can easily transfer to local transport heading to the beach.

The most convenient and fastest way to get from the city center to the pier is by public transport. Trams and buses run regularly from both stations toward Scheveningen Beach. For example, trams No. 1 and No. 9 go directly from the center of The Hague to the coast, stopping at Kurhaus or Scheveningen Noorderstrand. The trip takes an average of 15-20 minutes, and the stops are just a few minutes' walk from the pier. Bus No. 22 also runs from the Central Station to the beach.

For those who prefer comfort, a taxi ride from the center of The Hague will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. If you are traveling by car, it's worth noting that finding a parking spot can be challenging during the summer season and on weekends. There are several large paid parking lots along the promenade and near the pier, such as Parking Strand, which are recommended for convenience.

The history of Scheveningen Pier is just as fascinating as its modern attractions. The current pier, opened in 1961, is the successor to an earlier structure. The original pier, built in 1901, was completely destroyed in 1943 during World War II. Following this, the decision was made to build a new, more modern structure, which is now considered the largest in the Netherlands.

However, the history of the Scheveningen area itself is rich in more than just maritime events. This area has left a significant mark on world sports. Few people know that it was here in 1892 that the International Skating Union (ISU) was founded — the oldest international winter sports federation, which still regulates ice skating disciplines worldwide today. This fact highlights Scheveningen's long-standing status as an important center of social life.

The world of chess also holds a special place in the history of this district of The Hague. At the beginning of the 20th century, three iconic international tournaments were held here: in 1905, 1913, and 1923. The 1923 competition led to the emergence of the so-called "Scheveningen system" — a specific tournament format. Furthermore, one of the most popular openings in the Sicilian Defense was named the "Scheveningen Variation," forever etching the name of this resort into chess history.

It is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours to explore Scheveningen Pier. This is plenty of time to take a leisurely stroll along its entire length, enjoy panoramic views of the North Sea and The Hague coastline, and take some beautiful photos. This timeframe easily includes a ride on the famous Ferris wheel, which takes about 20 minutes and offers a bird's-eye view of the beach and city.

If you want to get the most out of your visit, plan to spend half a day or even more. Significant time may be spent waiting for and participating in extreme activities like the zipline or bungee jumping. Additionally, there are many cafes and restaurants on the pier where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner while watching the sunset. Thus, the duration of your visit directly depends on your chosen program: from a quick walk to a full day filled with entertainment.

Scheveningen Pier is open to visitors year-round, making it accessible in any season. Entry to the pier itself for walks is generally free. The general opening hours for the pier are daily from 10:00 to 22:00. However, it is worth remembering that the operating hours for the shops, food courts, and restaurants located on it may vary — they usually close a bit earlier, around 21:00.

The hours of operation for individual attractions, such as the Ferris wheel, zipline, or bungee jumping tower, may change depending on the season, weather conditions, and the day of the week. For some of them, like the Ferris wheel, pre-booking tickets online may be required. Therefore, it is highly recommended to check the official pier website or the pages of specific attractions before your visit for the most up-to-date information on schedules and ticket requirements.

Visiting Scheveningen Pier is just the beginning of exploring The Hague's vibrant and diverse resort district. To make your trip through the Netherlands even more rewarding, it's worth taking the time to explore the attractions located in the immediate vicinity. The area around the pier offers many interesting spots just a few minutes' walk away.

From family entertainment centers and museums to the famous beach itself, there is something for everyone here. A stroll through the neighboring locations will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this unique corner of the North Sea coast and complement the impressions from your visit to the pier.