Schouwen-Duiveland is one of the most beautiful places in Zeeland to go on holiday with your dog: wide beaches, dunes and the largest forest in Zeeland. On this page you will find in one overview where and when your dog may run free.
In short
- October 1st until April 30th: dogs are allowed to roam freely on the beach and in the sea all day.
- May 1st to October 1st: off-leash is allowed between 7:00 PM and 10:00 AM. Outside of these hours, on-leash only.
- All year round: the beach between De Punt and the Oosterscheldekering near Westenschouwen.
- Always open from April 1st until September 15th: Beach Monitor.
Dog beach Westenschouwen
Between De Punt and the Oosterscheldekering near Westenschouwen, your dog can run off-leash all year round, even during the day in summer. This makes it one of the most popular dog beaches on Schouwen-Duiveland. It's easily accessible from Burgh-Haamstede.
The Snitch Beach
In the high season, stricter rules apply on Verklikkerstrand: from April 1st until September 15th, dogs must always be on a leash here.
Off-leash areas outside the beach
- Forest Ranger Westerschouwen. The largest forest in Zeeland has a special off-leash area behind the campgrounds, between the forest edge and the bridle path near the Adriaan van der Weijdeweg.
- Grevelingendam. At the end of the Strandweg, in the recreation area Grevelingenstrand, there is a dog off-leash area.
- Creeks near Ouwerkerk. A beautiful natural area for walking. Dogs must be on a leash in some places.
Tips for a great dog holiday
- Always carry poo bags with you and pick up your dog's faeces.
- Pay attention to the signs on location: the rules may vary per area.
- Take water with you to the beach in the summer and avoid the hottest hours.
- Check the current rules on the website of the municipality of Schouwen-Duiveland.
Frequently asked questions
- Can my dog go to the beach in the summer? Yes, off-leash between 7:00 PM and 10:00 AM. On-leash during the day, except between De Punt and the Oosterscheldekering, where it is allowed off-leash all year round.
- Where can my dog run off-leash in the winter? From October 1st until April 30th, on all beaches, all day.
- Is there a free-roam area in the forest? Yes, in the Forest Ranger Station Westerschouwen.
On holiday with your dog in Burgh-Haamstede
Schouwseduin32 is a private holiday home with a fully fenced garden of 550 m², bordering the nature reserve De Zeepeduinen. Your dog is very welcome. Read more about our holiday home with dog or book directly.
Sources: Staatsbosbeheer, Municipality of Schouwen-Duiveland, On Schouwen-Duiveland.
