Wijk aan Zee

Wijk aan Zee is one of the Netherlands' best-known dune-soaring spots on the North Sea coast, and it has a reputation to match: strong coastal wind, slippery steep dune terrain and real crowds make this a poor choice for beginners, and even experienced mountain pilots often struggle here the first few times. The takeoff sits behind a row of beach houses that block direct access — expect to walk until the houses (and a newer fence) end, then use the narrow gap where they stop to reach the dunes. Summer weekends draw a real crowd, and climbing the fence elsewhere is against the rules and can draw a fine. Wind here is strong enough that lower-rated wings have only a narrow usable window, and pushing it too far risks being blown back over the ridge; certain sections of dune also form venturi pockets with unpredictable lift. Flying is only tolerated here rather than formally sanctioned, so it's worth checking the current rules with the national paragliding association before heading out. Landing is possible anywhere on the beach, but stay well clear of other beach visitors, especially near the entry points.

Launch & conditions

Takeoff sits behind a row of beach houses that block direct dune access — walk until the houses and fence end, then use the narrow gap there to reach the dunes. This spot gets genuinely crowded on nice summer days.

Getting there & local rules

Follow the signs from Wijk aan Zee town centre toward the beach entrance.

Local rules & hazards

Flying here is only tolerated, not formally sanctioned, so check the current rules with the national paragliding association before heading out. Wind is strong enough that lower-rated wings have only a narrow usable window — push it too far and you risk being blown back over the ridge — and some sections of dune form venturi pockets with unpredictable lift.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Wijk aan Zee, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Wijk aan Zee with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.