As the largest and most populated island in the Wadden Sea’s West Frisian Islands, Texel is a favorite beachside destination for vacationers and locals alike. Perhaps best known for its wildlife, the sand dunes of Texel are home to creatures such as seals, porpoises, spoonbills and birds of prey. In fact, around one-third of the island is a protected nature reserve. 1 of Texel’s other must-see attractions is the lighthouse. Walk up to the viewing platform of the bright red, 150-year-old lighthouse for spectacular views of the island and neighboring Vlieland island.
Find buried treasure in Texel
Beachcombing is a popular activity on the Texel shores. A visit to the Flora Shipwreck and Beachcombing Museum or the Museum Kaap Skil will reveal just what the locals have uncovered over the years (including a message in a bottle or 2). With almost 20 miles of beach on Texel, you’re guaranteed to find a quiet place to relax by the ocean. During summer, many visitors rent a beach hut; you can rent them for a day, or the whole season. The beaches of Texel are so clean and well maintained that they’ve won major environmental awards over the years.
Discover Texel’s neighboring islands
Once you’ve fallen in love with Texel, why not explore the other islands in the Wadden Sea? Nearby, you’ll find Terschelling, Ameland, Schiermonnikoog and Vlieland. Though there are actually 14 islands in the Wadden Sea – also known as the Waddenzee – these are some of the largest in the archipelago. Like Texel, there are plenty of beautiful beach towns along their coastlines, and it’s easy to get the inter-island ferry between them. Getting to Texel is simple too. The train from Amsterdam Centraal goes directly to Den Helder, where a short bus-ride will get you to the ferry terminal, and in just 20 minutes, you’ll be enjoying the stunning Texel shores.
