Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Boerhaavebad
★3.8(690 reviews)Cafe
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 1-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the safe, shallow children's pools, while school-age kids love the slides and can practice swimming skills. Teens may find it less exciting unless they're with younger siblings.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
Boerhaavebad is a modern public swimming facility in historic Haarlem offering year-round aquatic fun for families. With dedicated shallow areas for little ones, exciting water slides for adventurous kids, and warm water pools perfect for the Netherlands' cooler climate, it's an ideal escape on rainy days or whenever your family needs active indoor entertainment.
Highlights
- ✓Warm water pools perfect for year-round swimming in any weather
- ✓Multiple water slides that appeal to school-age children
- ✓Dedicated shallow children's areas for safe toddler splashing
- ✓Modern, clean facilities with family changing rooms
- ✓Onsite cafeteria for refreshments and breaks
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring Euro coins for lockers, as many Dutch pools operate on a coin-return system rather than accepting card payments for storage.
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday or Wednesday around 10:00 AM) to avoid school groups and weekend crowds.
- 3.Pack your own towels and swimwear, as rental fees can add up. Dutch pools typically require swim caps for long hair, so bring one if needed.
- 4.The onsite cafeteria offers snacks, but prices are typical for pool facilities. Consider bringing your own water bottles to refill.
- 5.Check the pool's website for 'recreatiezwemmen' (recreational swimming) hours, as some times are reserved for lap swimming or lessons.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, offer the quietest experience. Avoid Saturday mornings and school holidays when local families pack the facility. Sunday afternoons close early at 3:30 PM, so arrive by 12:00 PM for a good session.
What to Know
Entry fees are typical for Dutch public pools (around 5-7 euros per person). There's an onsite cafeteria for snacks and drinks. Parking is available nearby, but check signage as some areas require payment or permits.
Seasonal Notes
As an indoor facility, Boerhaavebad operates year-round, making it perfect for rainy Amsterdam-area days. The pool is especially popular during Dutch school holidays (July-August, Christmas, and spring break), so expect larger crowds during these periods.
Nearby Eats
Haarlem's historic city center is just a 10-minute walk away, offering family-friendly options like Jopenkerk (a church converted to a brewery with a kids' menu) or Dijkers eten & drinken for casual Dutch fare. For quick bites, the Grote Markt square has numerous cafes with outdoor seating in good weather.
More Activities Near Haarlem
Sports
Houtvaart swimming pool
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Houtvaart is a welcoming public swimming facility in Haarlem featuring dedicated shallow areas for young children, exciting water slides, and comfortably heated pools perfect for family fun regardless of the weather outside. With its modern facilities and thoughtful layout catering to different age groups, it's an ideal spot for families to spend a few hours splashing and playing together.
Park
Grote Markt
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The Grote Markt is Haarlem's stunning central square where families can soak up Dutch culture while kids run freely in the spacious pedestrian area. This historic marketplace buzzes with life year-round, featuring seasonal markets, street performers, and family festivals against a backdrop of beautiful medieval architecture including the impressive St. Bavo Church.
Playground
Generaal Cronjéstraat
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Generaal Cronjéstraat is a welcoming neighborhood park in charming Haarlem that offers families a perfect blend of active play and relaxation. With diverse playground equipment suitable for various ages, open grassy areas ideal for kicking a ball around, and plenty of shaded spots for parents to unwind, it provides an authentic Dutch local park experience away from tourist crowds.
Ice Cream
Garrone IJssalon B
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Garrone IJssalon B is a beloved local ice cream shop in the heart of Haarlem's main shopping street, serving artisan gelato with creative flavors that delight both kids and parents. This family-run gem offers homemade quality treats in a welcoming atmosphere where English-speaking tourists are greeted with friendly service. The affordable prices and prime location make it a perfect reward stop after exploring Haarlem's historic center with children.