The province of North Holland is expanding the number of official swimming locations with 4 new locations: Marineterrein Amsterdam, Lagune Camperduin, Hoorn-Zuid, and Wijdenes.  

Swimming is healthy and brings joy for young and old, but it is not without risks. Every year, dozens of people drown in the open water in the Netherlands or get sick because the water is not clean. Therefore, the province of North Holland advises only swimming at one of the 114 designated swimming locations. Here, the safety and quality of the swimming water are regularly checked. On the blue information board at the swimming location, or at www.zwemwater.nl Opens an external link, it can be seen whether a specific swimming advice applies. 

Health

Swimming in surface water can pose health risks. For example, there is a chance of stomach and intestinal complaints, swimmers itch, ear infections, and Weils disease. At official swimming water locations, the Environmental Service North Holland North checks the hygiene and safety of the swimming spots between May 1 and October 1. They do this on behalf of the province.  

It is recommended to always shower after swimming in open water. If that is not possible, one should at least wash their hands before eating something. 

Safety 

At some non-designated swimming locations, it is prohibited to swim Opens an external link, such as near bridges, locks, and in waterways. At some locations, there may be currents, objects may be in the water, or the transition from deep to shallow may be rapid. The province advises to be alert to this and only swim at official swimming water locations. 

Swimming in surface water is always at your own risk. 

More Information 

Current information about water quality and safety is available during the swimming season at zwemwater.nl Opens an external link. This information can also be found via the Zwemwater app; the App Store Opens an external link (for iOS) or the Playstore Opens an external link (for Android).