Lambs at the lighthouse

Texel: the sunniest part of the Netherlands

Did you know that Texel (along with Zeeland) has the most hours of sunshine in the Netherlands? That means you can enjoy the sun here more often and for longer than anywhere else in the country. But why is that? And where is the best place to enjoy all those extra hours of sunshine?

Why so much sun?

Texel has a favourable location in relation to the mainland. The influence of the sea and wind ensure that clouds do not linger as long and often clear up faster. The result? More sun and fewer grey days!

So how many hours of sunshine do we have?

On average, the sun shines around 1,650 hours a year on Texel. This is much more than, for example, in the east of the country, where they have an average of only 1,500 sunshine hours per year. In the summer months, this means long, sunny days and in spring and autumn you can often enjoy the sun here too, while on the mainland it is grey and dreary.

Where is the best place to enjoy the Texel sun?

  • On the beach - With 30 kilometres of coastline, there is always a nice spot to soak up some vitamin D.
  • On a terrace - Enjoy a tasty Texel beer or a delicious Juttersplank with the sun on your face.
  • During a bike ride through the dunes - The dunes and the salty sea air make this a perfect activity for a sunny day.
  • At the lighthouse - A beautiful view and a brisk breeze make this a top spot to enjoy the sun.
  • A boat trip - Floating across the Wadden Sea with the sun on your face and spotting seals from the deck.
Beach houses at the beach at sunset
Beach houses at the beach at sunset
Photographer: Emiel Stroev

Don't forget your sunscreen!

With so much sun, it's kind of important to keep your sunscreen on. Especially on the beach or during a long bike ride, the sun's power can be stronger than you think. Fortunately, you can buy sunscreen somewhere all over the island. At some beaches, you can also go to the beach kiosks, such as at beach post 28.

Tip: sunsets not to be missed

Thanks to the many hours of sunshine, Texel offers the most beautiful sunsets. The best place for this is of course the beach, where you can watch the sun sink into the sea in peace and quiet. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks and enjoy a magical end to a sun-drenched day. Want to enjoy the sunrise? Then find a spot early on the Wadden dyke.

Could you use some extra hours of sunshine? Then book a couple of days on Texel. You will find the largest selection of accommodation on our website.

More typical Texel

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