Scheveningen Pier

Scheveningen attractions

Published: 21 April 2011 Modified: 21 April 2011

The Scheveningen Pier is an events centre which juts out into the North Sea. At a height of 60 metres you’ll find a deck with a view stretching to 17 kilometres.

Let the wind blow through your hair and enjoy the wonderful view of the North Sea. Breathe in the salty sea air and watch the fishing boats entering Scheveningen Harbour. You’ll also discover a unique view of the boulevard and the monumental Kurhaus. And if you allow yourself some time to stop at one of the mounted binoculars, you can see everything up close.

The Pier is always a great place to be no matter the weather or time of year. Access to the Pier is free of charge and dogs are allowed. A visit to Scheveningen isn’t complete without a stroll across the Pier.

Walking on water

Come and stretch your legs in a friendly atmosphere along the 300-metre long Pier. The indoor shopping arcade offers something for everyone. Cosy leisure shops are interspersed with an art shop or a traditional Italian ice cream parlour. And if you’re lucky, you can even get a relaxing massage.

If you’ve travelled from far, an original photo shoot or souvenir from the gift shop is a great reminder of your visit. Go up one floor, where you’ll find the beautifully restored promenade deck.

The Pier also features the Bungy Jump Centre Scheveningen, a Van der Valk restaurant and casino, the Schateiland coin-operated arcade and a Tourist Information Point.

History

The Pier was designed in 1900 in connection with the Kurhaus. The 380-metre long promenade ended at an octagonal platform with a pavilion used for music performances. During the Second World War the pavilion was used by the German occupying forces for storage. In 1943 the Germans tore down the Pier by sawing off the piles. After the war plans were made for a new Pier, which was officially inaugurated by Prince Bernhard in 1961.

In 1991 the Van der Valk company purchased the Pier for a token amount of 1 guilder. The Pier serves as a symbol of Scheveningen and should draw visitors to the beach resort.