The park contains the highest dune in the Netherlands, reaching heights of over 45 meters above sea level.
It is the only location in the Netherlands where European bison (wisents) have been reintroduced into a wild, fenced habitat.
The landscape features 'slakken' or 'duinvalleien', which are damp valleys formed where the groundwater reaches the surface.
During the Second World War, the dunes were part of the Atlantic Wall, and remnants of bunkers remain buried under the sand.
The park’s ecosystem is lime-rich, which allows for the growth of rare orchids not found in the lime-poor dunes further north.
It hosts the ruins of Brederode Castle, a 13th-century fortification located on the park's periphery.
The area is a significant habitat for the natterjack toad, which relies on the ephemeral pools formed in the dune valleys.
Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland is a protected coastal dune landscape situated between Zandvoort and IJmuiden. It is one of the few places in the Netherlands where high-lime dunes remain, supporting a unique biodiversity distinct from inland habitats. The terrain encompasses shifting sand dunes, woodland, and expansive coastal valleys. Large herbivores, including Scottish Highland cattle, Konik horses, and wisents, roam freely within managed enclosures to maintain the landscape. It serves as a vital ecological corridor for migratory birds and rare flora such as Parnassia palustris. The park is managed by the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park foundation in collaboration with various conservation organizations. It is integral to the North Holland dune reserve system, stretching along the North Sea coastline.
The viewpoint atop the 'Hazenberg' dune offers an expansive panorama of the dunes and the sea.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the shifting, uneven sand terrain.
Bring binoculars, as the park is a prime location for spotting birds of prey and deer.
Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile dune vegetation and avoid disturbing the roaming large herbivores.
Do not attempt to feed or approach the Scottish Highland cattle or bison, as they are wild animals.
Dogs must be kept on a leash in most areas to protect wildlife; cycling is restricted to designated paths only.
