Though not as grand as its neighboring beach resort, Zandvoort, this little seaside retreat, with its sand dunes and icrecream vendors, is a pleasant way to spend a warm Dutch afternoon. At the beach, surfing, kite flying and dog-walking are all permissible. There are also numerous walking paths and bicycling paths that lead you up and down the coast. Nationaalpark de Kennemerduinen is located on the southern edge of Bloemendaal-Aan-Zee and is filled with a delightful mixture of pine woods and dunes. To reach, take the train from Amsterdam to Haarlem, and then catch bus 81 to Bloemendaal-Aan-Zee. Bikes can be hired in nearby Zandvoort. The beach of Bloemendaal aan Zee houses a large number of trendy pavilions mostly frequented by youngsters. However, this seaside resort in the province of North Holland is also being discovered by families with children. Bloemendaal is renowned in the Netherlands for its beautiful residences. Cycle through the wonderfully elegant districts and be prepared to be amazed. Besides modern houses, the mansions and estates that were built at the turn of the century lend a particular appeal to this district.