Beach Pavilions (Strandpaviljoens)

Beach pavilions are a feature of the Dutch coast, and Noordwijk, with its broad beach and its long tradition as a seaside resort, has a good number of them. A strandpaviljoen is a restaurant or cafe on the sand, usually built of wood and glass, with large terraces facing the sea, and it is the place where beachgoers rest, eat, drink and watch the weather. They range from casual spots with chips and ice cream to stylish restaurants with a full menu, and each has a different character, so it is worth looking at a few before choosing one.

In Noordwijk, the pavilions stand along the stretch of sand below the boulevard, within easy reach of the town and the dunes. They are accessible on foot or by bicycle from the main streets, and from many of them there are views along the coast. In summer they open early and close late, with music, events and sunset drinks, and some stay open through the year, offering shelter from the wind and a chance to see winter storms from a warm seat. Beach pavilions of this type are often partly dismantled in the colder months, but a growing number are built to last through winter. Opening arrangements differ, so check before relying on one for a meal.

The food and drink on offer reflect Dutch tastes. Typical items include fish and chips, mussels, fresh fish, croquettes, sandwiches, salads and the traditional pancakes, and in the afternoon, coffee with apple pie. Cold beers and wines are served at sundown, and many pavilions have a children's menu. Prices are higher than in town, because of the location, but the setting is the point. There is no charge to walk to the pavilions or the beach, and you pay only for what you order. Some pavilions hire out beach chairs, windbreaks and parasols.

Noordwijk has plenty to combine with a pavilion stop. The long beach is good for walking, and a path along the dunes leads north and south. The Noordwijkse Duinen and Noordwijkse Bos, De Witte Bergen and the Bollenstreek Route are within easy reach, and the town's centre, the Kerkplein and Museum De Zwarte Toren give a view of local history. Noordwijk is known for the nearby bulb fields, which are in bloom in spring, and for the Atlantic Wall remains in the dunes.

The pavilions suit families, couples, walkers and cyclists who want a rest, and they are at their best around sunset. Book ahead in summer, as terraces fill quickly, and dress for the wind.