A historic estate and park in Overveen, just outside Haarlem, open to the public. The grounds date to 1633 and were redesigned in the English Landscape style in the late 18th century. The main house — an unfinished Italian Renaissance villa — is a listed Rijksmonument. The park has a duck pond, follies, a chain bridge, canal system, and an orangerie. Free to walk through.
Haarlem's outdoor pool, open since 1882. A 50-metre pool with a diving board, a beginner pool, and a children's pool set in a large sunbathing area. Solar collectors warm the water. An authentic, unhurried place — feels nothing like a modern leisure centre.
A natural lake in the Spaarnwoude recreation area on the eastern edge of Haarlem. Sandy beach, a shallow section for children, and the Veerkwartier café for breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Free parking on site.
A hidden lake inside the Kennemerduinen dunes — one of the more unusual swimming spots in the Netherlands. No food on the beach, so bring your own. Wildlife in the surrounding dunes includes Scottish Highlanders, deer, horses, and foxes. The main entrance (Koevlak) has a restaurant and water play area.
A lake beach in South Schalkwijk with a safe swimming area, shallow section for children, a playground, and grassy areas. Restaurant de Molenplas on site.