Schiermonnikoog by season

Spring (March – May)

In spring the island comes to life. It is still quiet, the days are getting longer and nature is waking up. In March two annual events are on the calendar: the Monnikenloop, a running race through the National Park, and the spring edition of the Schiermonnikoog Festival featuring young classical talent. Around Whitsun, islanders celebrate Kallemooi, a centuries-old tradition.

The breeding season starts on 15 April. Part of the National Park then closes so that birds can raise their young in peace. It is the best time to see spoonbills, which breed on the salt marsh and at the Westerplas.

Read more: Events · Birdwatching

Summer (June – August)

Summer is beach season. The North Sea beach is one of the widest in Europe, so even in high season you will find a quiet spot. At beach post 7 there is a supervised swimming area. On 11 June the island celebrates its liberation, because in 1945 Schiermonnikoog was the last part of the Netherlands to be liberated.

In summer the Eilander Struunmarkt takes place in the village every Thursday evening, and in July there is the SchierSong Festival for singer-songwriters. The breeding season lasts until 15 July. If you want to see seals, walk east from beach post 7 or take the Balg Expres to the eastern tip.

Read more: Nature and beach · Seals and the Wadden Sea · The Second World War

Autumn (September – November)

For many island lovers, autumn is the most beautiful season. It gets quieter and nature is at its most exciting. Thousands of migrating birds pass through, and large flocks of brent and barnacle geese settle in the Banckspolder. After a strong autumn storm the finest shells wash up; the eastern tip is then the best place to look.

In early October there is the autumn edition of the Schiermonnikoog Festival, with chamber music, masterclasses and nature excursions. November is walking month: a whole month of guided walks with island guides. In the same month the literature festival Meet Me At The Lighthouse and the Devil's Trail take place, including a NightTrail in the dark.

Read more: Birdwatching · Shells and beach finds · Events

Winter (December – February)

In winter you have the island almost to yourself. It is the time for long beach walks, bracing wind and then warming up by the open fire. Many waders spend the winter around Schiermonnikoog, and you may spot special winter visitors such as the snow bunting, shore lark and golden plover.

On clear evenings the starry sky is spectacular: the Wadden area has the darkest night in the Netherlands. On 5 December islanders celebrate Klozum. And when it really freezes, people skate on the Berkenplas.

Read more: Birdwatching · Nature on Schiermonnikoog (starry sky) · Nature and beach

Practical tips per season

• Many restaurants and shops have shorter opening hours in the low season. Check their website beforehand.
• Events have different dates every year. See the Events page.
• Between 15 April and 15 July part of the National Park is closed. Follow the signs.
• Bring a windproof jacket in every season: it is almost always windy on the island.

Read more: Events

Frequently asked questions