Getting Married on the Beach in the Netherlands 2026: Rules, Costs and Step-by-Step Guide (+ Checklist)

Getting Married on the Beach in the Netherlands: Is It Possible in 2026?

Yes, you can get married on the beach in the Netherlands in 2026, but there are strict rules set by local municipalities and beach authorities. A beach ceremony is only legally valid if conducted by a civil registrar (trouwambtenaar) in a designated area approved by the municipality. Informal ceremonies led by a master of ceremonies or spiritual leader are possible, but they won’t have legal status. Below, we explain how it works, what it costs, and how to plan it step by step.

Where Can You Get Married on the Beach in 2026?

Not every beach in the Netherlands is suitable for an official wedding ceremony. Municipalities designate specific zones where weddings are permitted, usually outside the bird breeding season (April 15 to July 15) and at set times to avoid disturbing wildlife. The most popular locations in 2026 include:

• Scheveningen (The Hague): Official beach wedding spot near the Pier, with sea views. Maximum 50 guests, only on Fridays and Saturdays between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
• Zandvoort (North Holland): Wedding venue at Beachclub Tijn Akersloot, featuring a wooden deck and beach chairs. Maximum 80 guests, available from May to September.
• Texel (North Holland): Natural dune location near Pole 28, with views of the Wadden Sea. Maximum 30 guests, only outside the breeding season.
• Terschelling (Friesland): Beach pavilion De Walvis, with covered terraces. Maximum 60 guests, available from June to August.
• Cadzand (Zeeland): Beach tent De Zeeuwse Kust, with North Sea views. Maximum 100 guests, available year-round.

Tip: Always check the latest rules with the municipality, as locations can change annually. For example, in 2026, Egmond aan Zee beach is temporarily closed for weddings due to coastal reinforcement work.

Rules and Requirements for a Beach Wedding in 2026

An official beach ceremony must meet the following requirements:

1. Time and Duration:

   • The ceremony may last a maximum of 30 minutes.
   • Time slots are often limited to 10:00-12:00, 1:00-3:00, or 4:00-6:00 PM, depending on the location.
   • In summer (June-August), evening ceremonies may be possible until 8:00 PM, but only with municipal approval.

2. Number of Guests:

   • Usually a maximum of 50-100 guests, depending on the location.
   • Some municipalities require a minimum of 10 guests.

3. Weather and Cancellation Policy:

   • Beach ceremonies proceed in light rain unless there’s a storm or thunderstorm (weather code yellow or higher).
   • If canceled due to bad weather, municipalities often offer a covered location, but this isn’t guaranteed. Arrange your own backup plan, such as a nearby beach tent or pavilion.
   • Check the municipality’s cancellation terms: some require a deposit of €250-€500, which you’ll lose if you cancel within 14 days.

4. Sound and Music:

   • Live music is allowed, but amplification (e.g., sound systems) often isn’t.
   • Check with the municipality for volume restrictions.

5. Decoration and Setup:

   • Flowers, chairs, and a simple arch are usually permitted, but nothing may be anchored in the sand (e.g., with stakes).
   • Use heavy decorations that won’t blow away, such as wooden decks or beach chairs with sandbags.
   • Confetti, balloons, and fireworks are prohibited on the beach.

6. Clothing and Footwear:

   • Wear shoes suitable for sand, like espadrilles or bare feet (but be mindful of cold sand in spring and autumn).
   • A lightweight wedding dress or suit with a jacket for the bride is practical in windy conditions.

Costs of a Beach Wedding in 2026

The costs of a beach wedding vary by location and number of guests. Below is an overview of average prices in 2026:

Total: Budget €5,000 - €15,000 for a beach wedding with 50 guests. Save money by marrying outside peak season (May or September) or opting for a smaller ceremony with just your witnesses.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan Your Beach Wedding in 2026

Follow these steps to ensure everything is arranged on time:

1. Choose a Location and Date (12-18 months in advance):

   • Contact the municipality of your desired location for availability and rules.
   • Consider the breeding season (April 15 to July 15) and weather conditions.
   • Read more about visiting wedding venues and what to look for.

2. Book the Civil Registrar (9-12 months in advance):

   • Request a list of available registrars from the municipality.
   • Discuss the ceremony content: do you want personal vows or a standard text?

3. Apply for Permits (6-9 months in advance):

   • Apply for a permit from the municipality for the ceremony and any decorations.
   • Arrange a permit for drone photography if you plan to use one.

4. Sign the Rental Agreement and Cancellation Terms (6 months in advance):

   • Finalize the rental agreement with the municipality or beach tent.
   • Pay the deposit and review the cancellation terms.

5. Plan the Decoration and Setup (4-6 months in advance):

   • Choose decorations that fit the beach, such as flowers in soft colors, wooden elements, and linen fabrics.
   • Rent chairs, an arch, and possibly a wooden deck to stand on.

6. Organize Catering and the Wedding Cake (3-6 months in advance):

   • Choose a caterer experienced with beach weddings and prepared for weather conditions.
   • Discuss options for a beach-themed cake or alternatives like a donut tower or cupcakes.
   • Discover more about choosing a wedding cake.

7. Arrange Music and Entertainment (3-6 months in advance):

   • Book a live band or DJ experienced with beach parties.
   • Discuss options for an acoustic set or unplugged performance.

8. Send Invitations (3-4 months in advance):

   • Clearly state the location, time, and any dress code (e.g., 'beach chic').
   • Provide guests with tips for parking and nearby accommodations.
   • Read more about wedding invitation wording.

9. Plan a Backup Location (2-3 months in advance):

   • Arrange a covered location nearby in case of bad weather.
   • Discuss options with the beach tent or a nearby hotel.

10. Do a Rehearsal (1-2 weeks in advance):

    • Visit the location again to discuss the setup with the registrar and vendors.
    • Check the weather forecast and adjust plans if necessary.

Checklist: What to Arrange for Your Beach Wedding

Use this checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten:

• Location and date booked (12-18 months in advance)
• Civil registrar booked (9-12 months in advance)
• Permits applied for (6-9 months in advance)
• Rental agreement signed and deposit paid (6 months in advance)
• Decoration and setup arranged (4-6 months in advance)
• Catering and wedding cake booked (3-6 months in advance)
• Music and entertainment booked (3-6 months in advance)
• Invitations sent (3-4 months in advance)
• Backup location arranged (2-3 months in advance)
• Attire and footwear chosen (2-3 months in advance)
• Photographer booked (6-9 months in advance)
• Master of ceremonies chosen and tasks discussed (3-6 months in advance)
• Day schedule finalized (1-2 months in advance)
• Rehearsal completed (1-2 weeks in advance)

Seasonal Advice: When Is the Best Time for a Beach Wedding?

The ideal time for a beach wedding in the Netherlands is from May to September, when temperatures are pleasant and the chance of rain is lower. Below are the pros and cons of each season:

• May and June:

  • Pros: Less crowded, lower prices, pleasant temperatures (15-20°C).
  • Cons: Chance of rain and wind, cool sand in the morning.

• July and August:

  • Pros: Warm temperatures (20-25°C), long days, evening ceremonies possible.
  • Cons: Crowded beaches, higher prices, risk of heat.

• September:

  • Pros: Still warm temperatures (18-22°C), less crowded, lower prices.
  • Cons: Chance of rain and wind, shorter days.

Tip: Opt for a late afternoon ceremony (4:00-6:00 PM) for the best light and a romantic atmosphere. Combine the ceremony with a sunset dinner on the beach for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we get married on the beach in winter?

Yes, but options are limited. Some municipalities allow winter ceremonies, but only in good weather and with a limited number of guests. Be prepared for cold temperatures, wind, and rain. A covered beach tent or pavilion is a must. Read more about winter weddings here.

Do we need to arrange chairs and decorations ourselves?

This depends on the location. Some municipalities or beach tents provide basic setup like chairs and an arch, while others expect you to arrange everything. Discuss this in advance with the venue rental.

Is a beach wedding more expensive than a regular wedding?

A beach wedding can be slightly more expensive due to additional costs for venue rental, permits, and wind- and sand-proof decorations. Beach tents often work with fixed caterers and vendors, which can increase costs. Save money by opting for a smaller ceremony or marrying outside peak season. Discover more ways to save on your wedding.

Can we bring our dog to the beach wedding?

This depends on the municipality’s and venue’s rules. Some beaches allow dogs year-round, while others ban them during the summer season. Check with the municipality and discuss it with the venue rental. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn’t disturb other beachgoers.

What happens if it rains on our beach wedding day?

In light rain, the ceremony usually proceeds unless there’s a storm or thunderstorm. Arrange a backup location in advance, such as a covered beach tent or nearby hotel. Review the cancellation terms with the municipality and venue rental to know your options.

Can we have an informal ceremony on the beach without a registrar?

Yes, you can have an informal ceremony led by a master of ceremonies, spiritual leader, or a close friend. However, this ceremony won’t have legal status. You’ll need to marry at the town hall first to be officially wed. Read more about choosing a master of ceremonies.