Is Kurhaus and the boulevard good for a photoshoot?
Yes. The main beach at Scheveningen, below the Kurhaus and beside the pier, combines wide sand, a grand white 1885 hotel and a coastline that faces west, so the sun sets over the North Sea. It works best in the last hour before sunset, ideally outside the peak summer weeks. Through TulipFrame, sessions here start from €150 for a tourist photoshoot, and a beach photoshoot starts from €180.
Why Kurhaus and the boulevard works on camera
This is the one stretch of Dutch coast where architecture and beach share the frame. The Kurhaus sits directly behind the sand, so a photographer can shoot from the waterline back towards a white, domed façade, then turn around and use nothing but sea and sky. The boulevard steps down to the beach in wide terraces, which gives height for group shots and a dry place to stand when the sand is wet.
The light is the other reason. Because the beach faces west, the low evening sun can sit behind you as a rim light, go into the frame as a sunset, or light faces straight on. Wet sand near the tide line reflects the sky, and the pier and Ferris wheel just to the north give a recognisable silhouette. For season, outfit and wind planning, see beach photography in Scheveningen.
The best photo spots
- 01
The beach in front of the Kurhaus
Shooting from near the water back towards the hotel puts the white façade and its dome behind you. It is the most recognisable Scheveningen frame.
- 02
Boulevard terraces and steps
The stepped levels between the promenade and the sand give height for family groups and a sheltered corner when the wind picks up.
- 03
The tide line
At sunset the wet sand mirrors the sky, which suits walking shots and silhouettes. Check the tide: at high water the strip of firm sand is narrower.
- 04
Under and beside the pier
The concrete legs repeat into the distance and frame the sunset, a short walk north along the beach. The beach view is available whatever the state of the pier deck.
- 05
Sprookjesbeelden aan Zee
Tom Otterness’s bronze fairy-tale figures line part of the boulevard south of the Kurhaus, near the Beelden aan Zee museum. Children tend to love them, which helps relax a family session.
When to go
Early morning for an empty boulevard; sunset for the warm light on the white façade.
How long to plan
An hour is enough for the Kurhaus, the beach and the pier; 90 minutes lets you start in the Scheveningse Bosjes or the dunes and finish at sunset.
Shoots that suit it
- Scheveningen Beach Photographerfrom €180
- Couple Photoshootfrom €180
- Wedding Photographyfrom €1,500
- Engagement Photographyfrom €300
- Tourist Photoshootfrom €150
Practical notes
- Crowds: in July and August, and on any warm weekend, this is the busiest beach in the area. Pavilions and beach clubs line the sand from spring to autumn. Walk north past the pier, or come early in the morning, for space.
- Wind: the beach is fully exposed to onshore wind and blowing sand. Photographers usually shoot with the wind behind the subject and use the boulevard terraces for shelter. Bring a warm layer even in summer.
- Access: the promenade is step-free; ramps and stairs lead down to the sand. Walking on dry sand is hard work with a pushchair.
- Rules: beach rules for dogs and activities vary by section and season, so check the signs on the day. The Kurhaus, beach clubs and their terraces are private. Drones are restricted along much of this coast. The pier has planned renovation works, so check current access to the deck.
- Transport: trams 1 and 9 stop behind the Kurhaus, about 15–20 minutes from central The Hague. Boulevard parking is paid and fills up quickly on sunny days.
Local tip: The hotel is private; photos are taken from the boulevard and beach. Trams 1 and 9 stop right behind it.
Kurhaus and the boulevard photoshoot: questions
When is the best time of year for a beach shoot in Scheveningen?
May, June and September are a good balance of long evenings, mild air and fewer people than the summer holidays. Winter gives an empty beach and sunsets around 16:30, but plan a short session and dress warmly.
Can we take photos on the Kurhaus terrace?
The Kurhaus is a private hotel, so ask the hotel first. Most sessions use the boulevard and the beach in front, which show the building just as well.
Is the beach by the Kurhaus too crowded in summer?
On hot afternoons it can be. An evening session helps, as day visitors leave around sunset, and a 10–15 minute walk north past the pier takes you to the much quieter Noorderstrand.
What should we wear for a beach photoshoot here?
Clothes that move well in the wind and do not mind sand, with a warm layer for between shots. Bare feet work on the sand in summer; bring shoes for the boulevard.
