What are tides exactly?

Tides are the regular rise and fall of the sea caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. On Texel, this effect is especially strong because the island is completely surrounded by water. A full tidal cycle lasts about 12 hours and 25 minutes, meaning you get two high tides and two low tides per day.

• At high tide, the water rises and some nature areas or beaches may flood partially.

• At low tide, the water recedes and reveals more beach and seabed – ideal for mudflat hiking, beachcombing, or looking for shells and small sea creatures.

Tides at De Koog (North Sea)

On the west side of Texel, near the seaside village of De Koog, the beaches face the North Sea. Here, the difference between high and low tide can be up to four metres – much more than on the Wadden side. On average, low tide occurs 20 minutes earlier, and high tide 50 minutes earlier than in Oudeschild.

If you’re planning to go kitesurfing, land sailing, or swimming, it’s smart to check the tide chart in advance. When the tide comes in, the water rises quickly and currents can be strong. At low tide, the beach is much wider and quieter – perfect for long walks.

Tides at Oudeschild (Wadden Sea)

On the east side of Texel, in the village of Oudeschild, the tides of the Wadden Sea are clearly visible in the harbour. The difference between high and low tide is around 1 to 2 metres. During extreme high tide, the harbour may flood, and the water can rise so much that boats can literally sail through the streets.

Whether you’re spotting seals, shrimp fishing, or joining a boat tour, the right tide is crucial. The tides also determine when ferries and other vessels can dock. During extreme low tide, the ferry to Texel may be delayed until the water level rises again.

Tides and the beach: impact on recreation and safety

The tide conditions on Texel have a direct impact on what you can do on or near the beach. Many beach activities depend on the timing of the tide:

• Mudflat hiking or shell hunting? Go at low tide.

• Surfing, swimming or fishing? Check the time of high tide.

• Blokarting or power kiting? A wide beach at low tide is ideal.

Tide awareness is also important for your safety. Currents can be deceptive, especially when the tide is rising. Always check the latest tide tables before entering the sea.

Special and extreme tides on Texel

Texel occasionally experiences extreme tidal events, especially during storms or spring tides. Water levels may rise much higher – or fall lower – than usual.

• During extreme high tide, the harbour of Oudeschild may flood and parts of the beach can become inaccessible.

• At extreme low tide, the seabed is exposed so far out that you can walk deep into the Wadden Sea – sometimes uncovering rare finds, like old anchors, wreckage or WWII relics.

Beachcombers pay close attention to these moments. The sea gives and the sea takes – and on Texel, you can witness this every day.