St. Maartenszee
North Holland, Netherlands — Excellent water quality
St. Maartenszee sits 2.78 km from Petten along the Netherlands coastline. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, which means it meets strict international standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management. The beach is open throughout its designated season, though swimmers should exercise appropriate caution.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to St. Maartenszee
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is St. Maartenszee?
St. Maartenszee sits 2.78 km from Petten along the Netherlands coastline. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, which means it meets strict international standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management. The beach is open throughout its designated season, though swimmers should exercise appropriate caution.
Drinking water is available on-site. May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit, while July and August draw the largest crowds. The Blue Flag is renewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education, so the beach maintains consistent quality standards year to year.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in North Holland, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Netherlands certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
St. Maartenszee faces unknown toward North Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5°C | 2°C | Low |
| Feb | 5°C | 2°C | Low |
| Mar | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
| Apr | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| May | 13°C | 10°C | Med |
| Jun | 16°C | 13°C | Med |
| Jul | 18°C | 15°C | High |
| Aug | 18°C | 15°C | High |
| Sep | 16°C | 13°C | Med |
| Oct | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Nov | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Dec | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
The best time to visit St. Maartenszee is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 17.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 14.7°C in July.
How crowded does St. Maartenszee get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Netherlands, St. Maartenszee sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is St. Maartenszee open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at St. Maartenszee
Is St. Maartenszee safe to swim?St. Maartenszee is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at St. Maartenszee?Peak water temperature at St. Maartenszee reaches around <span class="inline-stat">14.7°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 5°C.
What is the beach like at St. Maartenszee?St. Maartenszee on the North Holland coast of Netherlands. Drinking water is available on-site. May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit, while July and August draw the largest crowds. The Blue Flag is renewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education, so the beach maintains consistent quality standards year to year.
Does St. Maartenszee have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, St. Maartenszee meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
St. Maartenszee sits on the North Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the North Sea.
Transport
Getting to St. Maartenszee
How do I get to St. Maartenszee by car?St. Maartenszee is approximately 2.78 km from Petten. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to St. Maartenszee?The nearest airport is De Kooy Airport (DHR) (DHR), approximately 16.2 km away.
Can I get to St. Maartenszee by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Petten.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 52.7930°N, 4.6721°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Netherlands |
Frequently Asked Questions
St. Maartenszee FAQ
Is St. Maartenszee suitable for children?
St. Maartenszee is a Blue Flag certified beach in North Holland, Netherlands. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is St. Maartenszee free to access?
Yes, access to St. Maartenszee is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit St. Maartenszee?
The best time to visit St. Maartenszee is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 14.7°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 17.7°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at St. Maartenszee?
St. Maartenszee is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to St. Maartenszee?
St. Maartenszee is located in North Holland, Netherlands. It is approximately 2.78 km from Petten. The nearest airport is De Kooy Airport (DHR) (DHR), 16.2 km away. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Netherlands
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Netherlands — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore NetherlandsWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal — not just a marketing tool.
Read more