Frequently asked questions surfcamps

SURF CAMPS

Is a swimming certificate mandatory to participate in the camps?

Yes, your child must have a swimming certificate A (or a comparable foreign certificate) to participate in the surf camp.

What if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. Every Sunday before the start of the camp, we make an assessment based on the weather. In case of bad weather, we opt for alternative activities, such as a visit to a museum or an indoor skate park.

What if there are no waves?

If there are no waves, we organise other fun water activities such as SUP or skimboarding. We also do active beach activities such as beach games and other games.

Is rental included?

Yes! Surfboards, wetsuits, skateboards, and skate protection are included in the price. For all other activities, we also provide the necessary materials.

Are the supervisors and surf instructors experienced enough?

The surf camps are led by an experienced camp leader, together with a team of enthusiastic supervisors and certified surf instructors. All instructors hold a first aid and lifeguard diploma. We work with small groups, so there is always sufficient supervision in the water. In addition, there is extra supervision on the beach for activities, photos, and rest periods. This ensures there is always sufficient supervision, both in the water and on the beach.

How do I see if my preferred date is still available?

During registration, you choose a start date. Red = fully booked. Blue = spots still available. We keep the date overview on the page as up-to-date as possible.

Can I book a surf camp with my Ooievaarspas?

Yes, the Hart Beach Surfcamp can also be booked with the Ooievaarspas. Since we need to scan the pass at the surf school, we ask you to visit Hart Beach in person. Payment on the first day of camp is also possible. Please contact us in advance to reserve a spot.

What should my child bring?

Swimwear, a towel, an extra T-shirt, a warm jumper, socks, closed shoes (for skateboarding), long trousers, and your own water bottle. And a big smile, of course!

What's included in the camp?

All materials (wetsuit, surfboard, skateboard), lunch, and guidance are included in the price.

What is the waiver?

The waiver is a digital form with which you agree to our terms and conditions. This way, we can start the camp smoothly and efficiently.

How many times a day do the kids go in the water?

This depends on the conditions (waves and weather). We aim to get in the water at least once a day. On good days, we even go twice!

What are the exact times for a camp day?

Grommets: Drop-off 09:00–09:30 | Pick-up 16:30–17:00

Young Guns: Drop-off 09:30–10:00 | Pick-up 17:00–17:30

What if my child is afraid of the water or has never surfed before?

No problem! Our instructors have a lot of experience with beginners and children who are apprehensive. We provide clear explanations, build up gradually, and offer plenty of guidance and support in the water.

What is the group size (child-to-instructor ratio)?

In the water, we work with approximately 6 children per instructor, ensuring each child receives sufficient personal attention.

When and how should I pay?

Payment is made upon registration via the website. Different arrangements apply for bookings with the Ooievaarspas — please contact us in advance.

What is your cancellation policy?

Anyone who does not show up without prior communication will lose the total registration fee. If you cancel in writing or by email at least 1 month before the start of the surf camp, you will pay an administrative fee of €25, and the remaining registration costs will be refunded. If you cancel less than a month before the start of the camp with a logical explanation, you will be refunded everything after deduction of a €50 administration fee.

What happens in case of injury or illness?

Your child's safety is our number one priority. All instructors are first-aid certified. In case of illness or injury, we will immediately contact the parents/guardians. For specific questions, please contact us at surfschool@hartbeach.nl.

If this occurs before the start of the camp, the full course fee can be refunded with a doctor's note. If this occurs during the camps, the money for the remaining days (excluding the day of the injury) will be refunded or the remaining camp days will remain on the account and can be used for another, later camp once the participant has recovered.

Where should I drop off and pick up my child?

Drop-off and pick-up take place at the Hart Beach surf school, Strandweg 3B, Scheveningen. Upon arrival, we will check all details and you will immediately find out which team your child is in.

Hart Beach Surf School is located on the beach of Scheveningen, on the north side of the pier at the southern end of the Boulevard. Address: Strandweg 3B, 2586 JK Scheveningen.

There is a Q-Park to be found on the Strandweg.

It can be busy when the weather is good and on weekends. For an up-to-date overview of parking options, we refer you to the parking information for The Hague.

What if friends also go to the camp?

Please indicate this on the registration form. We will do our best to place friends in the same group.

Do I get a discount if I register a larger group of children?

How great that so many kids want to join! We have a special group discount for groups of 4 children or more. This discount is available during the May holidays, weeks 32 and 33 of the summer holidays, and the autumn holidays.

Are the camps also suitable for children who do not speak Dutch?

Yes! Our instructors also guide and teach in English, so that international children can fully participate.

Is surfing safe for young children?

Safety is our top priority. Our instructors hold first aid and lifeguard diplomas and have extensive experience with children. We use soft-top surfboards (safer and softer) and stay in shallow water (knee to hip height). A swimming certificate is mandatory. Everyone wears a wetsuit. You may also bring your own wetsuit or surfboard, in consultation with us.

What does a surf lesson look like during the camp?

We start with a warm-up, put on wetsuits, and provide safety instructions and theory. Afterwards, the children, accompanied by certified instructors, enter the water with their own surfboards. We stay in shallow water and gradually build up the activity.

Is food and drink included?

Yes! We have lunch together with the group every day. There is bread with toppings, fruit, and plenty of drinks. In between, children receive lemonade and a snack (fruit, cookie, or ice cream). Water is available all day long.

My child is allergic or intolerant — can this be taken into account?

Yes, we are happy to take this into account. Please indicate any allergies or dietary requirements in advance via the booking form, and also state whether your child has an epipen. Please note that we work in a kitchen where multiple ingredients are used, so cross-contamination cannot be completely ruled out.

When are the camps canceled?

Hart Beach management reserves the right to cancel the surf camp in unforeseen circumstances. A minimum of 8 registrations are required for the surf camp to proceed. If this cancellation occurs before the start of the surf camp, the course fee already paid will be refunded without the right to compensation.

EVENTS

What are the opening hours?

We are open 365 days a year from 08:00 to 00:00 (weather permitting).

What is the maximum group size for a meeting?

We offer two spaces. The boardroom can seat up to 16 people. The side terrace is suitable for groups of up to approximately 60 people seated; in a theatre setup or standing, it can accommodate up to approximately 80 guests.

What kind of meeting packages do you offer?

A meeting room can be rented for a full day (max. 8 hours) or a half-day (max. 4 hours): morning (08:30–12:30) or afternoon (13:00–17:00).

Can I pay by invoice?

For businesses, payment by invoice is certainly possible. We also work with e-invoicing for government agencies.

What are the lunch options for large groups?

Up to 20 people can order à la carte on site. For groups of 20 people or more, we offer two special packages. For more information, please contact the Events team: telephone option 4 or events@hartbeach.nl.

What are the dinner options for large groups?

Up to 20 people can order à la carte. From 20 people upwards, we offer a Pizza Tasting, Pizza Tasting Supreme, and various BBQ packages. Please contact us by phone (option 4) or at events@hartbeach.nl for more information.

What facilities are available for meetings?

You can rent a flip chart, projector, TV screen with HDMI cable, microphone, and speakers from us.

Can allergies be accommodated?

Yes! Our menu includes gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Please indicate this in your event request or contact us by phone, option 3 or 4, or send an email to events@hartbeach.nl.

Is there a bad-weather alternative for beach events or activities?

Absolutely! We always plan a backup in consultation, in case the weather doesn't cooperate. What the backup entails depends on the requested activity. Please contact us at events@hartbeach.nl for more information.

Is it possible to hire a DJ?

For parties and events, it's possible to book a DJ. We'll arrange this entirely through our Events team – you don't have to organize anything yourself!

Are there changing rooms?

Yes, absolutely! We have changing rooms with showers and lockers available.

Can Hart Beach be rented privately?

Hart Beach as a whole cannot be exclusively rented, but parts of the restaurant and the terrace can.

Are there accommodation options nearby?

For overnight stays, we are happy to refer you to Tribe Hotel, near Hart Beach. Please contact us for more information about combined packages.

Can we order a cake for a party?

Absolutely! We work with a local patissier who makes the most delicious cakes. Please contact the Events team at events@hartbeach.nl to discuss the options.

RESTAURANT

What are Hart Beach's opening hours?

We are open 365 days a year. We open at 8:00 AM as standard and stay open until the evening — the exact closing time depends on how busy it is and the weather. The kitchen closes at 10:00 PM at the latest.

How can I make a reservation?

You can book a table online via our website. Are you with a group larger than 8 people? Please contact our events department at events@hartbeach.nl or call 070 3502591 (choose option 4).

What kind of food do you have? Is the menu seasonal?

We work with a seasonal menu featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients — always a combination of pizzas, burgers, salads, and snacks. In winter, the ingredients are a bit heartier, in summer a bit fresher. View our current menu via the menu link on the website.

Do you have vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options?

Absolutely! The menu features several vegetarian and vegan options, clearly indicated with an icon. Our smoothies and Açai bowl are also vegan. For other dietary requirements such as gluten-free, there are good possibilities as well — please ask our staff.

Do you also offer takeout?

Some dishes are suitable for takeaway. Please inform the staff. Please note: during the busy summer period, we only offer pizzas for takeaway.

Is it suitable for children?

At Hart Beach we love children! There are play equipment in the sand and a box with toys inside. Of course, there are also several children's menus on the card.

Can a stroller be brought on board and where can it be stored?

Yes, strollers are welcome. Please ask staff to help you find a suitable spot so the stroller does not obstruct the way.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash. We also have water bowls available for dogs.

Is Hart Beach wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible. Please note: we do not have a disabled toilet.

Is there parking nearby?

The Hart Beach restaurant is located on Scheveningen beach, on the north side of the pier at the southern end of the Boulevard. Address: Strandweg 3B, 2586 JK Scheveningen.

There is a Q-Park parking garage on Strandweg.

It can be busy when the weather is nice and on weekends. For an up-to-date overview of parking options, we refer you to The Hague's parking information.

What's the atmosphere like and can you watch surfers?

It feels like a living room by the sea — cozy and relaxed, not stuffy at all. With music in the background and a nice drink in your hand, you'll feel completely at home. People in wetsuits walk around, and you can watch them surf from our terrace.

Do you have free WiFi?

Yes! We have a public Wi-Fi network for our guests: Hart Beach Free WiFi. No password is required.

What payment options are available?

You can pay us with cash, (contactless) debit card, and credit card.

Do you have gift vouchers?

Yes! You can buy a Hart Beach gift voucher in our surf shop, right next to the restaurant. The voucher can also be ordered online via our webshop.