Want to rent a cargo bike in Zandvoort? Do you want to take the kids to the beach, for a ride through the dunes, or go shopping along the boulevard? Then the question quickly arises: do you take a regular cargo bike or an electric one? Spoiler: in a windy coastal town like Zandvoort, that choice makes quite a difference. We have listed all the pros and cons, plus exactly what a cargo bike at Behind the Beach can do for you. Ready?
Table of contents:
- What exactly is a cargo bike?
- Difference between a regular and an electric cargo bike
- Which cargo bike suits a day in Zandvoort?
- How many children fit in a cargo bike?
- Is a cargo bike safe on the Zandvoort cycle path?
- How much does it cost to rent a cargo bike in Zandvoort?
- Why Behind the Beach chooses the electric cargo bike
- How do you arrange a cargo bike at Behind the Beach?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Source attribution
- Personal advice
What exactly is a cargo bike?
A cargo bike, also known as a bakfiets, is a bicycle with a large box at the front in which you can transport children, groceries, a dog, or beach gear. The design has been deliberately kept low so that the center of gravity is at the bottom and the bike remains stable, even when three children are sitting in the front chatting.
The cargo bike was once known as a delivery bike for bakers and grocers, hence the name. Nowadays, it is mainly popular among parents, dog owners, and people who no longer want to make many or any car trips for short distances. In a cycling city like Zandvoort, this works out surprisingly well, because practically everything in the vicinity is within cycling distance.
At Behind the Beach, the cargo bike is one of the most requested models during the high season. Especially families staying in Zandvoort for a day or a weekend who don't want to lug around beach gear, picnic baskets, or small children who are quick to complain that their legs are tired.
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Difference between a regular and an electric cargo bike
At first glance, a regular and an electric cargo bike seem almost the same. Two wheels, handlebars, a box at the front. The difference lies in the frame and in how the bike feels on the pedals.
You have to get a regular cargo bike moving yourself. With two children plus a picnic basket inside, that is easily 80 to 100 kilos that you have to pedal away from a standstill. On a straight route with no wind, that is quite manageable. In a windy city like Zandvoort, where you often cycle towards the beach against a strong headwind, it requires more effort than you might think.
An electric cargo bike has pedal assistance. You pedal yourself, but the motor gives you an extra boost as soon as you push. The harder or steeper you pedal, the more help you get. The effect: you hardly feel the weight in the cargo box anymore. You set off smoothly from a standstill, headwinds don't bother you, and you can even climb the dune tops behind the boulevard without breaking a sweat.
Good to know: an electric cargo bike is neither a scooter nor a moped. You must pedal yourself to activate the assistance. Stopping pedaling means the motor stops. According to the national government, this category falls under the standard bicycle regulations: a maximum of 25 km/h pedal assistance, no driver's license required, and no mandatory helmet for adults.
Which cargo bike suits a day in Zandvoort?
Let's make it concrete. What are you doing today?
Heading to the beach with the kids? From Haltestraat, ride a short distance along the boulevard first, then take a turn towards the beach access. No hills, but wind from the sea is possible. A regular cargo bike works, but an electric one makes it relaxing.
A trip along the most beautiful cycling routes through the dunes towards Bloemendaal or Overveen? Then you'll encounter the occasional real climb, especially on the paths through Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. With a regular cargo bike and luggage, that's hard work. With an electric one, you whiz right over it almost without thinking.
A quick errand or a visit to the market on Friday? That's perfectly doable with a regular cargo bike, as it's nearby and on flat terrain. But if you'd rather head straight to a terrace with your purchases, the electric one will get you just that little bit faster.
Planning a day of picnicking in the polders towards Vogelenzang or Aerdenhout? That easily involves round trips of 15 to 25 kilometers. An electric cargo bike is really the only logical choice for that, especially with children or a well-filled basket.
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How many children fit in a cargo bike?
The standard cargo bike at Behind the Beach accommodates two to three children, depending on age and size. There is a bench at the front with a seatbelt or harness, and handholds on the sides to keep the little ones securely fastened. For babies and toddlers, you can bring a car seat or cargo bike seat that clicks into place on the bench.
A few practical things to bring along. Children up to about 8 years old usually fit in the cargo box without any problems. After that, they often become too tall and sit uncomfortably. For older children, Behind the Beach has children's bikes in 20 and 24 inches that can ride alongside you.
Dogs are allowed. Preferably a calm dog that doesn't jump out of the carrier at every seagull. To be on the safe side, you can clip a harness to the seatbelt.
Bags, cooler bag, beach towels, parasol: everything fits easily around the kids or under the sofa.
Is a cargo bike safe on the Zandvoort cycle path?
Yes, and in many cases safer than a regular bicycle with a child seat. The children's low seating position ensures a low center of gravity, keeping the bike stable on the road. At a normal speed on the bike path, you hardly feel your passengers move.
What is different from a regular bicycle, however, is that the cargo bike is wider and longer, and the braking distance is longer because it is heavier. Take your time getting used to it before you start racing, especially on narrower cycle paths through the dunes. According to the Cyclists' Union, the cargo bike is one of the safest ways to transport children by bike, provided you take those different dimensions into account.
A few tips for your trip in Zandvoort. Always use the cycle path on the boulevard, not the promenade. Cycling is not allowed on the beach itself, so park your bike at the beach entrance. Fixed cycle routes apply in the nature reserve, so follow the signs and stay on the marked paths. Helmets for small children are not mandatory but are a good idea; feel free to ask about them when picking up your bike.
Tip: Before you set off with a group of children or a heavy load, practice a quick lap around the store. Get used to the steering and brakes, and you'll be on your way safely.
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How much does it cost to rent a cargo bike in Zandvoort?
At Behind the Beach, you can rent an electric cargo bike for 50 euros per day. A modified rate applies for a weekend or multiple days, which can be found on the complete price list.
What you get for that amount: the cargo bike itself, a properly working battery (fully charged upon pickup), seatbelts for the kids, and a chain with a lock so you can park it by the terrace without worry. A child seat is included for €2.50 per day if you bring a baby or young toddler.
What is not included in the rate: any repairs if you get a flat tire on a shard of glass on the boulevard, and the deposit we require upon pickup. You will receive the deposit back as soon as the bicycle is returned complete and undamaged.
Why Behind the Beach chooses the electric cargo bike
An honest story. Over the years, we have worked with both types: the regular cargo bike and the electric one. What we saw: in a coastal town like Zandvoort, the electric one simply works better for our renters. Three reasons.
The wind. Zandvoort has a moderately strong sea breeze all year round. Cycling against the wind with two children and luggage in the basket is no fun; that is hard work. The electric assistance makes the wind a non-issue.
The distances. Many of our renters want not only the beach, but also a trip to Bloemendaal, Overveen, or Aerdenhout. These are rides of 10 to 25 kilometers with hills in the dunes. Without assistance, almost everyone is out of breath halfway through. With assistance, you cycle it out in a relaxed manner.
The target group. These are often parents with young children, or people who no longer cycle daily themselves. A regular cargo bike with a load doesn't work if you haven't built up the stamina for it. The electric one makes cycling accessible to everyone again, regardless of your fitness level.
That is why we have chosen to rent out only electric cargo bikes. Not because a regular cargo bike isn't possible, but because the electric one simply provides a more pleasant experience in this environment.
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How do you arrange a cargo bike at Behind the Beach?
Reservations can be made online or by phone. During peak season, especially in July and August and on sunny weekends in May and June, we recommend booking in advance. Cargo bikes are popular and stock is limited.
You pick up the cargo bike from us at Haltestraat 51, within walking distance of Zandvoort station. You will receive a brief explanation, can try the bike out on the small square in front of the shop, and then head out. At the end of the day (or the rental period), you return it to the same location.
Prefer a different type? Check out the option to rent an electric bike in Zandvoort if you are not bringing children and want to cycle only for yourself, or use the selection guide to compare which bike suits the beach, dunes, or village.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you allowed to ride a cargo bike on the beach?
No, the beach itself is not a bicycle area. You ride up to the beach entrance or the terrace and park there. This applies to both regular bicycles and cargo bikes.
Do you need a driver's license for an electric cargo bike?
No. The electric cargo bike falls under the standard bicycle rules: pedal assistance up to 25 kilometers per hour, no driver's license required, and no helmet mandatory for adults.
How far can you go with an electric cargo bike on a single charge?
Our batteries last an average of 50 to 80 kilometers, depending on the assistance level you choose. For a day of cycling around Zandvoort, including a trip to Bloemendaal or Aerdenhout, that is more than enough.
Can you also rent a cargo bike for one person?
Yes, that is possible. Many people rent a cargo bike to do groceries, take a dog along, or for a day out in the fresh air with their camera. No children are required on board to rent one.
Does a dog fit in Behind the Beach's cargo bike?
Yes, dogs are allowed. For safety, we recommend attaching a harness to the seatbelt so that he or she remains stable when driving over a speed bump or braking.
What if it is windy or raining in Zandvoort?
The cargo bike is made for Dutch weather. In heavy rain, you can pull a tarpaulin over the box to keep the kids dry. Of course, we advise against it in stormy weather, not because of the cargo bike itself, but for general safety on the bike path.
Can I reserve my cargo bike or do I have to drop by?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can make a reservation online via our website or by phone. You can also just drop by when it's quiet, but then you run the risk that all the cargo bikes are already on their way.
What is included in the deposit for a cargo bike rental?
The deposit is a security deposit that you will receive back if the cargo bike is returned complete and undamaged. The amount is stated upon pickup and depends on the rental period.
Up to what age are children allowed to ride in the cargo bike?
Practical up to about 8 years old. After that, they still fit, but are often too tight. For older children, we also lend out children's bikes in 20 and 24 inches so they can cycle along themselves.
Can I rent a regular (non-electric) cargo bike at Behind the Beach?
At the moment, we only rent out electric cargo bikes. We do this deliberately, because an electric cargo bike proves to be the better choice for our renters in a windy coastal town like Zandvoort.
Source attribution
| Claim | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|
| The cargo bike is a safe mode of transport for children. | Cyclists' Union | Consulted |
| Electric pedal assistance is legally capped at 25 km/h and falls under bicycle regulations. | National Government | Consulted |
| Cycling in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is only permitted on designated paths. | np-zuidkennemerland.nl | Consulted |
Personal advice
Are you torn between a regular or electric cargo bike, or are you unsure which bike best suits your plans? Drop by at Haltestraat 51 or give us a call. We are happy to advise you, and if the cargo bike turns out not to be quite the right choice, there is always another model that does fit. Reserve your cargo bike in Zandvoort directly here and we look forward to seeing you soon.