Texel attractions: What's worth seeing on your holiday?

Texel attractions: What's worth seeing on your holiday?

Texel isn't an island where you have to rush from one tourist attraction to the next. That's precisely what makes it so appealing. The North Sea, the dunes, the sheep, the small villages, and the wind set the island's rhythm. During our visit in May, Petar and I experienced Texel as rugged, windy, and pleasantly tranquil. Some beaches were practically deserted. Life moved at a leisurely pace in the villages. This is exactly why Texel is a great fit for travelers who appreciate nature, the sea, regional cuisine, and peaceful places.

This article doesn't contain a complete list of all Texel attractions. Instead, we'll show you what we think is really worth seeing – depending on whether it's your first time on Texel, you're looking for nature, you're traveling with children, you like good food, or you want something to do when the weather is bad.

Before you plan your trip, you'll find here All information on how to get to TexelYou can also find an overview of the island and the question of who Texel is suitable for as a holiday destination in our article. Experience Texel.

Which sights are worth visiting on your first holiday to Texel?

If it's your first time on Texel, I wouldn't try to see the whole island in one day. Texel is best experienced when you take your time. A good first impression is formed when you combine the sea, village life, island history, and nature.

For your first holiday on Texel, we particularly recommend these sights:

• the lighthouse at the north end of the island
• Oudeschild with harbor and Kaap Skil Museum
• the Dunes of Texel National Park
• Ecomare near De Koog
• Den Hoorn or Oosterend for the quieter village atmosphere
• Kaasboerderij Wezenspyk if you want to try local products

This selection showcases the island's diverse facets. You'll find beaches and wide open spaces, but also history, mudflats, sheep, cheese, fishing, and villages that are more than just a backdrop.

Where is Texel?

Texel is located in North Holland on the North Sea and belongs to the West Frisian Islands. The island is the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands and is just a short ferry ride from the mainland. The ferry departs from Den Helder and takes you to Texel.

Texel island map

How do you get to the sights on Texel?

You can reach Texel by ferry from Den Helder. The crossing doesn't take long and is part of the island experience. You can find current departure times and tickets directly at [website address]. THESEA detailed description of how to get there, the ferry, parking, and getting around on the island can be found in our article. Texel arrival.

You can easily get around Texel by car. However, the island is even more beautiful by bicycle, weather and wind permitting. Many sights are not far from each other. Nevertheless, you shouldn't underestimate the distances. The wind can make a short distance seem longer than it appears on the map.

Den Hoorn: a peaceful start to Texel

Den Hoorn is located just a few kilometers from the ferry terminal. It used to be right on the sea. Today, polder land and dikes separate it from the coast. The street names and old houses still reflect its seafaring past. Pilots once lived here, guiding ships through the shallows of the Wadden Sea. Whalers also called Den Hoorn home. Because Den Hoorn isn't as lively as Den Burg or De Koog, it's a great place for a quiet first stop. Here, you get a sense of just how much Texel has been shaped by the sea, even where the water is no longer right on your doorstep.

The land between Den Hoorn and the dike was reclaimed from the sea. Today, the polders serve as pastureland for cattle and sheep. Daffodils are also cultivated in the area for bulb production. The fences made of sod are a striking feature. Because wood was scarce on Texel in earlier times, pieces of turf were cut out and piled up to form walls about a meter high. This is how the inhabitants separated fields and pastures.

De Bonte Belevenis near Den Hoorn

If you'd like to combine craftsmanship, regional products, and a farm visit, De Bonte Belevenis outside Den Hoorn is worth a look. They offer candles, soap, bread, beer, and other handcrafted goods. Be sure to check the current schedule for workshops and tours in advance.

Official information: De Bonte Belevenis Estate
Address: Rommelpot 11, 1797 RN Den Hoorn

Sheep sheds: Sheep barns as typical Texel sights

During our holiday on Texel, we kept noticing buildings that looked as if they were only half-finished. These are sheep sheds. That's what they call the sheep barns where hay and fodder for the sheep are stored. Sheep on Texel stored.

They usually face northeast with their flat sides. The entrance door is also located there. This is due to the wind, which on Texel often blows from the southwest. This protects the barns from the sea winds. Today, the sheds are hardly used anymore. Some have been restored and are used for other purposes.

It's details like these that make Texel interesting to us. They aren't flashy tourist attractions, but they tell us a lot about how the island's people have dealt with the wind, weather, and landscape.

Kaasboerderij Wezenspyk: Texel for connoisseurs

If you'd like to try regional products, the Kaasboerderij Wezenspyk (Wezenspyk Cheese Farm) is a great addition to your Texel day trip. There you can buy cheese from the island and learn more about sheep, milk, and cheesemaking. On one of our visits to Texel, a cheese fondue at Wezenspyk was one of the culinary highlights of the trip.

Wezenspyk isn't a great day trip. It's more of a convenient stop if you want to combine a visit to Den Burg, De Waal, Den Hoorn, or a bike tour through the island's interior with some regional cuisine.

Official information: Kaasboerderij Wezenspyk
Address: Hoornderweg 29, 1791 PM Den Burg

You can find more culinary impressions in our article. Texel Tips for connoisseurs.

Oudeschild: Port, fishermen and maritime history

Our favorite place on Texel is Oudeschild. It's the only place on the island that still has a harbor. It's not located on the open North Sea, but on the Wadden Sea side. That's exactly what we found fascinating. If you want to see a harbor on Texel, you have to go to the side of the island facing away from the open sea.

Fishermen set out from Oudeschild to catch plaice, sole, prawns, herring, and shellfish. A visit is especially worthwhile on weekends when the fishing fleet is in port. During our walk along the harbor promenade, we saw fishermen at work, yachts in the harbor, and a sailboat flying the Swedish flag.

Texel in the footsteps of seafarers

Oudeschild was already an important location during the Dutch Golden Age. At that time, ships of the Dutch East India Company anchored off Texel when returning from their trading voyages or waiting for favorable winds. The Texel roadstead played a significant role in Dutch maritime history.

Kaap Skil: Museum of beachcombing, ships and island history

Kaap Skil is one of our top attractions on Texel. The museum tells the story of shipping, fishing, flotsam and jetsam, and the history of Texel's roadstead. Ships repeatedly sank in the waters off the island. Currents and storms washed up artifacts on the beaches. The Jutters, as the beachcombers on Texel are called, collected these items for generations.

In the museum you'll see anchors, cannons, porcelain, old tools, and many other artifacts. We particularly enjoyed the reconstruction of Oudeschild's old harbor. It demonstrates how important the town once was for seafaring. Outdoors, there are fishermen's huts that give an impression of how fishermen once lived on the island.

Inside the windmill's annex, we were overwhelmed by thousands of buoys, bottles, and other flotsam and jetsam that beachcombers had salvaged from the sea. Kaap Skil is therefore not only worthwhile in bad weather; it also helps you understand Texel better.

Official information: Museum Cape Skil
Address: Heemskerckstraat 9, 1792 AA Oudeschild

Napoleon's forts near Oudeschild

Three fortresses are located on the Schansweg, just outside Oudeschild. Fort de Schans, the oldest of the forts, dates back to William of Orange, who had it built in 1574. During the Dutch Golden Age, the fort served at times as a prison, where mutineers were incarcerated. Some were even executed.

Napoleon Bonaparte came to Texel in 1811. He had Fort de Schans expanded and two more forts built nearby: Fort Lunette and Fort Redoute. Fort de Schans has since been restored. Only the foundations of the other two fortresses remain.

Address: Fort de Schans, Schansweg, Oudeschild

The forts are particularly worthwhile if you're interested in history or are already in Oudeschild. I wouldn't necessarily plan to visit them as a main destination on your first trip to Texel.

Oosterend: A village idyll away from the hustle and bustle

Oosterend lies about one and a half kilometers inland. Today, it has a larger fishing community than neighboring Oudeschild. The town itself was once a port, but due to land reclamation and the draining of polders, the sea is now several kilometers away. The fishing boats from Oosterend are now moored in the port of Oudeschild.

Oosterend is particularly worth seeing for its tranquility. Cobblestone streets wind through the village. The houses are well-maintained. During our visit, a cat was stretching out in the sun in front of a bench. These little scenes make Oosterend one of our favorite places on Texel, especially if you're not just looking for the well-known tourist attractions.

The Waal and Waelstee Museum

De Waal is the smallest village on Texel, with only a few hundred inhabitants. If you'd like to learn about life on Texel in the past, the Waelstee Museum is well worth a visit. Housed in two traditional farmhouses, it showcases everyday life, agriculture, crafts, and transportation on the island.

For example, we saw how children used to be pulled in small carts by rams. These carts tell more about life on Texel in earlier times than many a large exhibition. The work of women, cheesemaking, household chores, carriages, and old tools are also on display.

The museum is a good choice if you prefer quiet places or are looking for an alternative activity in bad weather. Important: According to official visitor information, Museum Waelstee will reopen after renovations at the end of June 2026. Therefore, please check the current information before your visit.

Official information: Waelstee Museum Visitor Information
Address: Hogereind 6, 1793 AG De Waal

Den Burg: Main town of the island

Den Burg is the main town on Texel. It can't officially call itself a city, as none of the island's towns have city rights. Nevertheless, Den Burg feels most like a small town. Here you'll find shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and the island's administrative offices. If you're still deciding whether Den Burg, De Koog, Oudeschild, or a quieter location would be better suited to your trip, our overview will help: Where to stay on Texel? A comparison of locations and sites.

If you'd like to stroll around, shop, or take a break during changeable weather, Den Burg is a convenient option. The town's charm doesn't stem from any single major attraction, but rather from its blend of everyday life, restaurants, and the island's central hub. The weekly market takes place on Monday mornings, making a walk through the town particularly worthwhile.

The tourist information office is also located in Den Burg. There you can find out about current events and activities on Texel.

De Cocksdorp and the Texel Lighthouse

De Cocksdorp lies in the north of the island and is the youngest village on Texel. It only came into being after new land was reclaimed between Eierland and Texel through dike construction. However, most visitors come not for the village itself, but for the lighthouse.

The red lighthouse at the northern end of Texel is one of the island's most famous landmarks. We can see it from afar. And rightly so, as it serves as a navigational aid for ships off the coast. It stands in the dunes and towers over the wide sandy beach. Beachcombers stroll along the shore, sometimes accompanied by land sailors who let the wind carry them along the water's edge.

The lighthouse's history is also interesting. During World War II, the Georgian Uprising took place there, when Georgian members of the Wehrmacht revolted against German soldiers on Texel. The fighting lasted from April 6th to May 20th, 1945, and is considered the last major battle of World War II in Europe. Bullet holes can still be seen in the lighthouse walls today.

Official information and tickets: Texel Lighthouse
Address: Vuurtorenweg 184, 1795 LN De Cocksdorp

Texel beaches: North Sea, vastness and wind

Texel's coastlines are quite distinct. On the west side lie the long North Sea beaches. There you'll find the wide stretches of sand that many associate with Texel. On the east side lies the Wadden Sea. There are only a few small beach areas there, for example near Oudeschild.

If you're looking for beach walks, swimming, or days spent on the beach, you should head to the west coast. The longer the path through the dunes, the quieter the beach often is beyond. Areas with beach restaurants, the lighthouse, or resorts like De Koog tend to be more crowded.

For us, the vastness was particularly important. Wind, sand, sea, and the long paths through the dunes are all part of Texel's charm. Those expecting only windless days for swimming should choose their travel dates carefully. However, those who enjoy North Sea air, exercise, and changing light will find plenty of quiet moments on the beaches.

Texel Dunes National Park

The Dunes of Texel National Park stretches along the west coast from the south of the island to the lighthouse in the north. It encompasses dunes, forests, heathland, salt marshes, wet dune valleys, and beaches. This very diversity makes the national park one of the most important attractions for nature lovers.

You can explore the national park on foot or by bicycle. The paths lead through forests, dunes, and open areas. With a bit of luck, you might spot birds, rabbits, or other animals. The contrast between the protected paths in the interior and the open expanse of the beach is particularly striking.

If you only have a short time, I wouldn't recommend visiting the national park as a standalone item. It's better to combine it with a specific excursion: to the lighthouse, to Ecomare, to a beach, or on a bike tour.

Official information: National Park Dunes of Texel

Kaap Noord beach pavilion: Texel for connoisseurs

The island of Texel on the North Sea fulfills many of the expectations we have for such places. Wind, sea air, and sunshine make you hungry. Therefore, our lunch break at the Kaap Noord beach pavilion was just what we needed. Eating right on the beach with a view of the sea is something special for us Bavarians.

Despite the fresh sea breeze, the tables outside were already occupied. So we found a seat inside the restaurant. The menu offered fish, salads, croquettes, and other simple dishes. While enjoying mussels and salmon salad, we watched the kitesurfers skimming across the water outside. We could have easily stayed there longer.

Kaap Noord isn't worth visiting as a classic tourist attraction. It's more of a place where you experience Texel: wind, sea, hunger, a view of the water, and a break between excursions.

Ecomare in De Koog: Seal sanctuary, natural history museum and family destination

Ecomare near De Koog is one of the best attractions on Texel if you're traveling with children or looking for something worthwhile to do in bad weather. Originally a rescue center for injured animals, Ecomare has since become a natural history museum with a seal sanctuary, aquariums, and exhibits about the North Sea, the Wadden Sea, and the island's natural environment.

We learn a lot about the island's wildlife there. You'll see seals, porpoises, seabirds, and fish. You'll also find out how closely Texel is connected to the North Sea, the Wadden Sea, the dunes, and nature conservation.

How a sperm whale financed its museum

Even sperm whales have beached themselves on the Texel islands. One of them played a special role for Ecomare. Ambergris was found inside its body. This rare substance is produced in the digestive tract of sperm whales and was once used to make perfume. The find was so valuable that it helped to finance the facility. Today, the sperm whale's skeleton hangs in the exhibition room.

In the outdoor area and aquariums, you can see animals that live in and around the North Sea. Since Ecomare is located right in the middle of the Texel Dunes National Park, you can easily combine your visit with a walk through the dunes.

In 2025, Ecomare also opened an exhibition focusing on the future of the holiday island of Texel. It addresses climate change, sea levels, coastal protection, and potential developments for the island. This makes Ecomare more than just a typical family destination; it also highlights the challenges facing Texel in the future.

Official information: Ecomare practical information
Address: Ruijslaan 92, 1796 AZ De Koog

Texel Brewery: Island beer in Oudeschild

If you're interested in regional drinks, the Texelse Bierbrouwerij in Oudeschild is worth a visit. We went ourselves and found it particularly interesting because the brewery fits in so well with the island. Texel isn't just sheep, cheese, and fish. Beer has also become part of the island's culinary identity.

Texel's Skuumkoppe is particularly well-known. At the Proeflokaal, you can sample various beers and learn more about the brewery. For a tasting or tour, you should book in advance, as the offerings may vary depending on the season.

Official information and tickets: Texelse Bierbrouwerij Tickets
Address: Schilderweg 214 b, 1792 CK Oudeschild

Texel in bad weather

Bad weather is part of the North Sea experience. But on Texel, that's no reason to write off the day. You just shouldn't rely solely on the beach, dunes, and cycling.

These destinations are particularly suitable for rain, strong winds or cooler days:

• Kaap Skil in Oudeschild: for seafaring, beachcombing and island history
• Ecomare near De Koog: especially with children and if you are interested in nature and the sea
• Waelstee Museum in De Waal: for everyday history and earlier life on Texel
• The castle: for cafes, shops, weekly market and a quieter break
• Texelse Bierbrouwerij: for a tasting or a visit to the Proeflokaal
• Wezenspyk: if you want to buy regional products or try cheese

Especially when the weather is changeable, Texel shows a different side. The island then seems less like a classic summer destination, but often more authentic.

Sights for gourmets

Texel isn't a typical foodie destination with extensive restaurant lists. The island's appeal lies more in its regional products and simple, landscape-oriented establishments. Sheep, cheese, fish, mussels, shrimp, beer, and beach pavilions define its culinary scene.

Especially worthwhile for connoisseurs:

• Kaasboerderij Wezenspyk for cheese and sheep products
• Oudeschild for port, fishing and maritime history
• Kaap Noord for a break on the beach
• Texelse Bierbrouwerij for beer from the island
• The castle for cafes, market and small shops

You can find more information in our article. Texel Tips for connoisseurs.

Things you can also skip on Texel

Not every attraction needs to be on your list for your first Texel holiday. Some places are beautiful, but better suited for repeat visitors or those with specific interests.

De Hors In the south of the island is an impressive stretch of sand. If you're short on time, I wouldn't make it a must-see. For a first impression of Texel, the lighthouse, Oudeschild, the national park, Ecomare, and a village like Den Hoorn or Oosterend are much more diverse.

Dijkmanshuizen It's especially worthwhile if you're specifically interested in birdwatching or are already in the area. For most first-time visitors, it's not a must.

The Luchtvaart and Oorlogsmuseum Texel It can be exciting if you're interested in aviation and military history. However, if you want to experience Texel as an island, a nature destination, and a place to enjoy life, I would recommend starting with other places.

That doesn't mean these destinations are uninteresting. They're just not at the top of your list if it's your first time on Texel and you only have three to five days.

A suggestion for 3 days on Texel

Day 1: Arrival, Den Hoorn and beach

After arriving by ferry, Den Hoorn makes a good first, relaxing stop. From there, you can drive through polders and dunes towards the west coast and take your first stroll along the beach. If you'd like to do some local shopping, Wezenspyk is a great place to include in your day.

Day 2: Oudeschild, Kaap Skil and Texel Brewery

On the second day, I would plan a visit to Oudeschild. A stroll along the harbor, a visit to the Kaap Skil Museum, and then, depending on your interests, a trip to the Texel Brewery. This will give you a good impression of seafaring, fishing, and the island's history.

Day 3: Lighthouse, National Park and Ecomare

The north and west coast are ideal for the third day. Start at the lighthouse, then drive through the national park or along the beach, and later visit Ecomare. I would recommend allowing more time for Ecomare if you're traveling with children.

If you're staying longer, you can add Oosterend, De Waal, other beaches, and quiet cycle paths to your itinerary. It's especially worthwhile not to plan every single day on Texel.

Frequently asked questions about Texel attractions

What are the must-see sights on Texel?

For your first visit, the lighthouse, Oudeschild with Kaap Skil, Ecomare, the Dunes of Texel National Park, and a quiet spot like Den Hoorn or Oosterend are particularly worthwhile. This selection will show you the sea, dunes, village life, island history, and nature.

Where is the most beautiful spot on Texel?

If you like beaches and the sea, the wide sandy beaches in front of De Koog and to the north near the lighthouse are particularly beautiful. Oosterend, Den Hoorn, and some paths through the dunes offer a more tranquil atmosphere. Our favorite spot is Oudeschild, because the harbor, fishing, and history come together there so well.

What is special about Texel?

What makes Texel special is its blend of the North Sea, Wadden Sea, dunes, sheep, small villages, and maritime history. The island isn't spectacular everywhere, but it's precisely its quieter details that make it interesting: sheep boats, polders, old harbors, flotsam and jetsam, and regional products.

What can you do on Texel in bad weather?

In bad weather, Kaap Skil, Ecomare, Museum Waelstee, Den Burg, Wezenspyk, and the Texel Brewery are all worth a visit. A walk on the beach can also be lovely if you have windproof and waterproof clothing with you.

Which Texel attractions are suitable for children?

Ecomare, Kaap Skil, De Bonte Belevenis, the lighthouse, and the beaches are particularly suitable for families with children. Ecomare is a good choice if children enjoy animals, the sea, and nature. Kaap Skil also offers plenty of engaging activities, including beachcombing finds and an outdoor area.

What do you eat on Texel?

Typical Texel dishes include lamb, sheep's cheese, fish, prawns, mussels, and regional products. You can also find beer from the Texelse Bierbrouwerij brewery. If you'd like to read more culinary tips for Texel, you can find them in our article. Texel Tips for connoisseurs.

Is Texel expensive?

Texel can be expensive during peak season, especially for accommodation. If you prefer a quieter and often cheaper trip, the shoulder seasons are a good choice. We found Texel pleasantly quiet in May. It's a good idea to compare accommodation prices early, especially if you want to stay near the beach.

Tips for your trip planning

• Don't plan your Texel trip too tightly. Wind, weather, and ferry schedules dictate the rhythm of your trip more than on many mainland journeys.
• Check opening hours and ticket prices for museums, the lighthouse, Ecomare and the brewery directly on their official websites.
• Bring windproof and weatherproof clothing. Even in spring and summer, it can be chilly on the North Sea coast.
• If you plan to cycle, be prepared for headwinds. On Texel, they often feel stronger than the distance.
• Three to five days are sufficient for a first visit if you don't want to see everything.

Sights in the Netherlands

If you would like to combine your Texel trip with other destinations in the Netherlands, you will find additional tips here:

• Netherlands beautiful places
• Netherlands travel destinations
• North Sea beach vacation
• Holland landmarks

Source for the article "Texel Sights and Activities": On-site research. We would also like to thank VVV Texel and forvision for their support of this trip. However, our opinions remain our own.

Text about Texel sights and activities: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos of Texel activities and the Texel travel guide: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Videos about Texel activities and Texel travel guide: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline