Discover authentic North Holland coastal adventures with De Groot Recreatie’s cozy seaside retreat. From mudflat hiking to shrimp fishing, it’s your gateway to the wild beauty of the Wadden Sea, perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with modest walking involved
Wildlife
History
The Wadden Sea has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2009, recognized for its ecological and cultural significance.
Conservation
De Groot Recreatie prioritizes sustainable tourism, ensuring minimal impact on tidal flats and local wildlife through responsible practices.
De Groot Recreatie
Discover authentic North Holland coastal adventures with De Groot Recreatie’s cozy seaside retreat. From mudflat hiking to shrimp fishing, it’s your gateway to the wild beauty of the Wadden Sea, perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike.
De Groot Recreatie is a family-run recreation provider based in Hippolytushoef, Noord-Holland, specializing in guided Wadden Sea experiences and holiday home rentals. The company organizes shrimp fishing (garnalenvissen) departures that include scenic boat tours from Den Oever, wildlife viewing of spoonbills and seals, and onboard coffee and instruction. Guided wadlopen (mudflat hiking) on Wieringen and private wadlooptochten are offered with expert guidance, customizable group options, and safety-focused briefings. De Groot Recreatie operates several Waddenhuus holiday homes: two 10-person options—one with a boeibad and one with sauna and hot tub—and a 20-person connected retreat featuring multiple kitchens, living areas, and a private terrace. These accommodations are fully equipped for families and groups and serve as bases for mudflat hiking, shrimp fishing, and boat tours.
Additional experiences include family-friendly four-hour wadlopen with a boat tour finishing with traditional fish and chips, private shrimp-fishing trips, celebrations (feesten) with food and drinks, and bootcampen op het wad. Booking options include private trips and group stays that accommodate family outings and events. Guides on water and mudflat activities are described as experts who emphasize safety, local wildlife, and regional sights such as the Afsluitdijk. De Groot Recreatie caters to nature lovers and families seeking an active coastal holiday on the UNESCO Wadden Sea. For visitors looking for guided outdoor activity, wildlife encounters, and comfortable seaside accommodations, De Groot Recreatie provides targeted experiences and bookable packages in Noord-Holland.
Availability is managed through direct booking or partner platforms, and details appear on listings for each experience online.
Location
Hippolytushoef, Noord-Holland
Base near the Wadden Sea
Group Size
Up to 20 guests
Holiday homes and private trips
Stays Available
Waddenhuus for 10–20
Fully equipped family homes
Activities
Wadlopen, garnalenvissen, boat tours
Wildlife encounters & adventures
Reserve guided mudflat walks, shrimp-fishing boat trips, private group outings, or a Waddenhuus holiday home — check availability and book the right experience for the whole group.
Timing mudflat hikes
Plan your mudflat hikes around low tide for safe and expansive walking areas.
Wildlife awareness
Bring binoculars to observe migratory birds and other wildlife visiting the tidal flats.
Weather considerations
Check weather forecasts before heading out to stay prepared for wind and rain typical in coastal areas.
Fishing gear tips
Use a sturdy shrimp net and wear waterproof clothing for a better fishing experience.
Waterproof boots
Keep your feet dry and stable while walking across uneven mudflats or wet terrain.
spring|fall|winter
Binoculars
Improve wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for birds and distant seals.
Layers of clothing
Adjust to changing weather conditions with moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
all
Fishing net
Try your hand at shrimp fishing with a basic net provided or brought along for fun.
summer|fall