Nowhere in North Holland is bird life as rich as on Balgzand. The land here is wide and beautiful. From a number of points on the sea dyke you have a beautiful view of the mudflats. A good point to look at is ’t Kuitje Information Centre on the Oostoeverweg in Den Helder. Note the tides, for with rising water the thousands of birds fly in large swirling clouds towards the dike to spend time there. The Balgzand is so loved by countless birds because it falls dry twice a day and then uncovers endless sand and mud flats, where a lot of shellfish, worms, shrimps and snails can be found. In the spring, numerous birds, including tangs, terns and seagulls, nest here on the salt marshes formed against the dyke. Even spoonbills have successfully raised youngsters here. In July large groups of mountain ducks come together to moult, a remarkable spectacle. Every month you can go on a bird excursion.
Balgzand
Nearby locations
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Medemblikker Loods
The Medemblikkerloods on Willemsoord is a place where history comes to life. Here, wood is still worked, just as it was in the past. The name refers to the carpenters from Medemblik who practiced their craft here in the 19th century. In their original shed, dating from 1833, wood was dried after years of soaking in the Binnenhaven to soften it enough for working. After serving as a copper warehouse, metalworking shop, and storage for dockworkers, the old shed was demolished in the 1980s. But in 2003, it was rebuilt with the same design and renewed energy. It is now a well-equipped woodworking shop where restoration and maintenance of classic ships—from botters to sloops—are carried out. Thanks to support from the Wadden Fund and the efforts of dozens of volunteers, this shed has become a vibrant place. You'll also find an instruction room and storage facilities, all dedicated to preserving the Museum Harbor. Everything here exudes craftsmanship, a love of maritime heritage, and a focus on sustainability. The warehouse is managed by the Willemsoord Shipyard Foundation. A visit is more than just seeing – it's experiencing how past and future merge in wood, hands, and stories.
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Iceparadise
We bring the summer itch, and give the ultimate holiday feeling. We have 36 different ice-cream flavours, including Smurf, Cookies, Stroopwafel, Bubblegum, Kinder Bueno and even Liquorice! All our flavours are fit for people with lactose or gluten allergies. We also offer an assortment of fresh pie to go along with a delicious cup of coffee.
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Koninklijke Marine Jachtclub
Historic marina on defense grounds, accessible to passers-by and members
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Water tower
In 1856 Den Helder got as one of the first cities in the Netherlands their own Water Tower, located in Huisduinen. After 50 years the tower was relocated to the center of Den Helder. In 2005 the tower was renovated to show how it was at first
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Fort Dirksz Admiraal
Defensive fort from 1813 with German bunkers and guided tours
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The Apple mix Fried Chicken
Need a quick bite? Get your fried chicken, kapsalon, or burger on Beatrixstraat.
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Stichting Bonaire
Discover the 130-year-old naval ship Zr. Ms. Bonaire in Willemsoord
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Apostolisch Genootschap
Religious heritage with an active role in Den Helder society
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Bruna
Books, magazines and more in the center of Den Helder