Seal-watching on Ameland
Ameland is the place to see seals up close. Hundreds of common and grey seals live on and around the island, regularly resting on the sandbanks or curiously poking their heads above the water. Whether you go by boat or watch from the beach, seal watching on Ameland is an experience you won't soon forget.
Where can you watch seals?
You have the best chance to spot seals at low tide, when they like to lie on the sandbanks of the Wadden Sea. Popular spots are the Oerdplaat on the east side of Ameland and the sandbanks near Hollum. With binoculars you can sometimes see them right from the beach, especially on calm days they sometimes swim close to the coast.
Seal-watching trip on Ameland
Would you like to see the seals up close? Then join an organised seal-watching trip from the harbour of Nes. The captains know the Wadden Sea inside out and know exactly where to find the animals. During the tour, you will learn more about the life of seals, the tides and the unique ecosystem of the Wadden Sea. A special experience for young and old!
Did you know…
...seals on Ameland can sometimes stay underwater for up to 30 minutes without breathing? They slow their heart rate from around 100 beats per minute to sometimes as little as 10, so that they can hunt fish in silence.
...common seals often stay close to the coast, while the larger grey seal makes longer trips through the North Sea. The mudflats mainly serve as an important resting and lying place.
...The grey seal is considerably larger and can be recognised by its long “dog's head”. The common seal has rounded features and a friendlier face. With a bit of luck, you will see both species during your trip.
Combine your day with a stay at Strandcamping Duinoord
After a day of seal-watching and exploring the Wadden Sea you return to Strandcamping Duinoord and the sound of the sea is still whispering in the background. From the campsite you reach the beach in just a few minutes, and on calm days you may even spot seals swimming close to the shore. Spend the night among the dunes, recharge in nature and make your seal-watching experience part of your own Ameland story.
Plan your stay, discover the seals and be amazed by the island.
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Frequently asked questions
Zeehonden
- What is a seal-watching tour?
A seal-watching tour is a boat trip across the Wadden Sea where you can see seals up close in their natural habitat.
- Where can you see seals?
Seals live both in the Wadden Sea and in the North Sea. Because seals are mammals and cannot breathe underwater, they regularly rest on sandbanks. During a seal-watching tour, you sail to one of these sandbanks.
- What is the best time to spot seals?
You can see seals on Ameland all year round! Spring and summer offer the best chances of observation, as seals often rest on sandbanks in good weather.
- Is a seal-watching tour suitable for children?
Absolutely! The guide’s explanations and the interactive nature of a seal-watching tour often make it an unforgettable outing for the whole family.
Editors Strandcamping Duinoord
Update: March 6, 2026
