Texel is the largest and most populated of the West Frisian (Wadden) Islands off the coast of North Holland in the Netherlands, reached by a roughly 20-minute Royal TESO ferry from the mainland port of Den Helder. It is famous for around 30 km of sandy beach, the Dunes of Texel National Park (covering more than a quarter of the island), the Ecomare seal and porpoise sanctuary, the red Eierland lighthouse and the tidal salt marsh of De Slufter, and it lies within the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea. With almost as many sheep as people and its prized Texel lamb, it is a classic Dutch nature-getaway island that suits walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers. As of summer 2026 it gets very busy in peak season, so booking the ferry and accommodation ahead and allowing an unhurried pace is recommended.
Dunes of Texel National Park - covering over a quarter of the island, the most varied dune landscape in the Netherlands, laced with walking and cycling routes across dunes, heath and beach.
Ecomare - a nature centre and museum that rescues and rehabilitates seals and porpoises; the twice-daily seal feedings are a highlight and it is especially good for families.
Eierland Lighthouse - the striking red lighthouse at the island's northern tip (completed 1864); climb its 118 steps for sweeping views over the coast and dunes.
De Slufter - a rare salt marsh flooded by the tides, an important breeding ground for birds such as spoonbills and oystercatchers, with a short family trail of about 800 m.
Seven villages and 30 km of beach - from the central hub of Den Burg and the fishing harbour of Oudeschild to the seaside resort of De Koog, linked by some 140 km of cycle paths.
Good to know
SeasonFacing the North Sea, the island is windy and the weather changeable even at the height of summer; pack windproof, waterproof layers. In winter many museums and restaurants cut their hours, so check opening times before you go.
SafetyMudflat walking (wadlopen) on the Wadden Sea is dangerous alone because the tide comes in fast, so only go with a licensed guide. When swimming in the North Sea beware of rip currents and stay within lifeguarded, marked zones.
RulesIf you bring a car, the ferry fare is normally paid when you leave Texel (the return leg), and car crossings fill up in peak season and on holidays, so reserve ahead. In the national park and bird reserves keep to marked paths and do not pick plants.
MannersDuring the March-August bird breeding season keep quiet near nesting areas and avoid flying drones over reserves. The island is a cycling paradise, so follow bike-path rules and be considerate of other walkers and riders.
CautionOutright scams are rare, but book ferry and attraction tickets through official sites (teso.nl, texel.net) rather than unofficial resellers that rank high in search. Cash is little used; card and contactless are standard and some venues are card-only, so carry a card.
Practical info
Reach the island by the roughly 20-minute Royal TESO ferry from the mainland port of Den Helder (from Amsterdam it is about 1 hr 15 min by train to Den Helder, then a short shuttle or walk to the terminal). On Texel, get around by the Texelhopper bus or rented bicycle; the ferry fare is usually paid as you leave the island. Ferry fares and timetables and admission prices for Ecomare and the national park change seasonally, so always confirm the latest details on the official sites before you visit.
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