According to our guests
Discover the 10 best Texel Tips!
The best activities through the eyes of our guests
Texel offers endless opportunities for enjoyment. But what makes the island so special according to our guests? For 2026, we have once again compiled the top 10 most enjoyable activities based on thousands of guest responses. Let their recommendations guide you and experience for yourself why Texel is such a beloved destination.
1. Discover Texel by bicycle
Cycling on Texel is the tip our guests give most often. With no less than 140 kilometres of beautiful cycle paths, that's no surprise. The island offers plenty of variety: you can cycle through dunes, over dykes, through woods and past charming villages. What's more, you can reach places by bike that you can't get to by car. Read more about the cycle routes.
Did you know that Texel has more than 30 viewpoints that you can easily reach by bike?
"We really enjoyed the cycle paths on Texel. Every route we discovered something new." - Koppel
2. Enjoy ultimate beach days
For many visitors, the beach is the main reason for coming to Texel. With more than 30 kilometres of sandy beach, there is always a nice spot to be found. Whether you want to relax or enjoy water sports, there is something for everyone. Are you bringing your dog to Texel? You can enjoy a lovely walk between beach posts 12 and 21. For water sports enthusiasts, pole 17 is particularly recommended. Discover for yourself why Texel's beach is so popular and find your ideal spot among the dunes.
Did you know that Texel is one of the few beaches in the Netherlands where you can watch both sunrise and sunset over the sea?
"Building sand castles, searching for shells, our children couldn't get enough of the beach." - Family with young children
3. Explore Texel on foot
In addition to the many cycling routes, Texel also has an extensive network of walking trails. So don't forget your walking shoes! Take a beautiful trip through Mokbaai and Hors, or combine a visit to the lighthouse with a walk through Eierland. There are also plenty of areas where your dog is welcome. Are you coming with (grand)children? Then the Sommeltjespad is highly recommended, always a success with young explorers.
Did you know that, Texel has over 200 kilometres of walking trails to explore?
"During our walks, we came across surprisingly beautiful views every time. Texel really is a hiking paradise!" - Young family
4. Explore De Slufter nature reserve
Number 4, chosen by our guests: De Slufter. This is Texel's best-known and most unique nature reserve. More than a hundred years ago, the inhabitants of Texel tried to close the opening in the dunes, but nature proved stronger every time. The tide causes salt water to flow in and out of the area continuously, and during a strong north-westerly storm, the entire plain is spectacularly flooded. Only plants that can tolerate salt grow here. In summer, the landscape turns a beautiful purple colour due to the flowering sea lavender. De Slufter is definitely a must-see on Texel!
Did you know that De Slufter is the only area in the Netherlands where the sea can flow in unhindered? Which is unique to our landscape.
"We were very impressed by De Slufter, with its beautiful nature and peaceful surroundings." - Senior couple
5. Climb the Texel lighthouse
At the northernmost tip of Texel stands the iconic lighthouse, a place that is often visited by our guests and highly recommended. After climbing 118 steps, you will be rewarded with an impressive view of the North Sea, the Wadden Sea, the northern part of the island and Vlieland. On exceptionally clear days, some visitors even claim to be able to see England or the North Pole, although you will need binoculars and a little imagination for that. Feel free to combine your visit with a lovely walk through the surrounding dune area.
Did you know that the Texel Lighthouse is one of the few lighthouses in the Netherlands with a double wall. The unique double wall of the Texel Lighthouse was created after the lighthouse was damaged during the Second World War. Instead of replacing the outer wall, a new wall was built inside.
"The climb up was worth it. The view from the lighthouse was incredible!" - Group of friends
6. Marvel at Ecomare
Every year, many of our guests visit and recommend Ecomare, and with good reason. It is a fun and educational outing for all ages. You will encounter seals, seabirds, fish and other marine animals, and there is even more to see during feeding time. In the Whale Room, you can admire impressive skeletons of whales and dolphins. You will also learn all about the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site, the North Sea and Texel, and you can take part in various nature excursions.
Did you know that Ecomare is not only a seal sanctuary, but also one of the oldest nature museums in the Netherlands?
"The children were completely fascinated by the seals. Ecomare was educational and fun for the whole family!" - Family with teenagers
7. Cuddling lambs at the sheep farm
Texel is, of course, famous for its sheep. Would you like to hold one of these soft balls of wool yourself? Then the sheep farm is the ideal outing. The lambs are more than happy to be cuddled, and there are fun, educational demonstrations of sheep herding. There are also many other animals to meet. Want to get in the mood? Then take a live look inside the stable.
Did you know that there are more sheep on Texel than people? The Texel sheep is a special breed known for its thick wool.
"The children loved the sheep farm. Holding a lamb was the highlight of their holiday." - Family with young children
8. Discover the different villages
A voyage of discovery through Texel is not complete without a visit to the various villages. Den Burg is known as the bustling heart of Texel, where you can shop and enjoy the local markets and culinary hotspots. In De Koog, you will find the ideal combination of beach, nature and conviviality. Take a relaxing walk on the beach, cycle through the beautiful surroundings or enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant. Den Hoorn is Texel's most authentic village with its picturesque appearance and quiet charm. Discover the iconic white church or take a walk through the beautiful nature in the surrounding area.
Did you know that Texel is known for its short distances? The villages are often within cycling distance of each other, so you can explore several villages in a single day.
‘Discovering the wonderful cycle network, the charming villages and the beach – simply fantastic.’ - Couple
9. Discover treasures at the Beachcomber's Museum
Curious about what washes up on the beaches of Texel? Then a visit to the Beachcombers' Museum is a must. Immerse yourself in the unique world of beachcombing and discover the objects that the sea has revealed over the years. Admire the finds up close and be surprised by the stories behind these washed-up treasures.
Did you know that the Beachcomber's Museum displays finds that are more than 75 years old? Including rare items from World War II.
"The Beachcomber Museum was a treasure trove of stories and finds. Fascinating for young and old alike!" - Family
10. Experience authentic shrimp fishing
Step aboard and experience authentic shrimp fishing! A trip on the Wadden Sea with a shrimp cutter is a popular outing among our guests. As soon as you leave the harbour of Oudeschild, the nets are cast and the fishermen tell you all about the animals and the fishing method. When the nets are hauled in, it soon becomes clear that there is more than just shrimp in them. The bycatch is explained, examined and then returned to the sea alive. And the shrimp? They are cooked fresh on board for you.
Did you know that crab fishing on Texel often yields unusual by-catches, such as rare crustaceans?
“A unique experience at sea, crab fishing was educational and entertaining. Highly recommended!” - Group of friends
Even more recommendations
Book your stay
Have you been inspired by all the tips from our guests, but have not yet booked your stay? Then do it right now and let the excitement begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did you know that the crossing to Texel only takes 20 minutes? A short but fun adventure across the Wadden Sea. So your Texel experience begins as soon as you step on board of the TESO!
Texel is a true children's paradise! With vast beaches, fun nature walks and many activities, there is something for every age. Think shrimp fishing and the Beachcomber's Museum. But also the facilities of Holiday park De Krim, such as the indoor swimming pool with slides, bowling and miniature golf are fun for children.
You may also be interested in
Associated with:
We work together with:
