A colourful spectacle by the sea
When you think of spring in the Netherlands, your mind immediately turns to colourful tulip fields stretching as far as the eye can see. And one of the most beautiful places to experience this spectacle is undoubtedly Julianadorp aan Zee. This charming coastal village in the Kop van Noord-Holland offers a unique combination of vast beaches, fresh sea air and the largest contiguous flower bulb fields in the Netherlands.
In April and May, the landscape around Julianadorp transforms into a living painting. Long swathes of tulips, hyacinths and daffodils colour the fields in red, yellow, purple, pink and white. From the dunes, you look out over a breathtaking contrast: the colourful flower fields on one side and the North Sea on the other. It is precisely this combination that makes Julianadorp so special.
Explore the bulb fields on foot or by bike
The best way to experience the floral splendour is by bike or on foot. Narrow country lanes take you past the fields, whilst the scent of flowers and the salty sea air combine to create a quintessentially Dutch spring atmosphere.
An absolute must is the annual ‘Wandeldag Kleurrijk Julianadorp’ (Colourful Julianadorp Walking Day). On Sunday 26 April 2026, you can walk right through the largest bulb-growing landscape in the Netherlands, with routes of 7.5, 15 and 27 kilometres. What makes it extra special is that you’ll be walking along paths that are normally closed to the public.
Cyclists will also find plenty to enjoy here. A ride towards Den Helder or, alternatively, towards Callantsoog and Schoorl allows you to enjoy dunes, beaches and flower fields all in one route.
Respect for nature
The bulb fields are beautiful, but also fragile. It is important to stay on the paths and not walk amongst the flowers to take photos. During events such as the walking day, extra attention is paid to this out of respect for the crops and the hard-working bulb growers.
In this way, we ensure together that future generations can continue to enjoy this colourful splendour.
A perfect combination of beach and flowers
Perhaps what makes Julianadorp aan Zee most unique is that you can stroll amongst the tulips in the morning and enjoy the fresh sea air on the beach in the afternoon. The wide sandy beach, the dunes and the cosy beach pavilions complete the picture.
Our tip? Go early!
Want to see the bulb fields at their best? Then plan your visit between mid-April and early May. Go early in the morning for the best light, the most peace and quiet, and the best photos. Bring your camera, hop on your bike and be amazed by one of the most colourful places in the Netherlands. 🌷🚴🌊