SUP away holiday in Haarlem, The Netherlands

Looking for a unique SUP experience in the heart of Europe? Discover Haarlem, a charming Dutch city of calm waterways, rich history and scenic canals — the perfect place to explore by paddleboard.

Just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a beautiful medieval town set along the Spaarne River, which winds through the heart of the city. Paddling here means gliding past historic landmarks like the Gothic Grote Kerk (St. Bavo Church) and Molen de Adriaan, a classic Dutch windmill on the riverbank. Along the way, you may spot birdlife such as coots and black swans — and even the occasional otter.

Haarlem is home to Free Movement, an ASI accredited stand up paddle school, offering lessons, tours and courses right on the water — combining skill development with unforgettable sightseeing.

About Free Movement SUP

Located at Spaarnwouderstraat 35, Haarlem, Free Movement is owned and run by experienced paddlers Ricardo Haverschmidt and Petronella van Malsen, whose lives revolve around sport, water and the outdoors.

Both have strong SUP racing backgrounds and have helped grow the sport in the Netherlands. Ricardo is recognised as a pioneer in Dutch SUP racing, an ASI SUP Technical Coach, and holds qualifications across downwind, enclosed waters, exposed waters and SUP surfing. With a Degree in Sports Science and experience across multiple outdoor disciplines, he brings a broad, professional approach to coaching.

Petronella is a passionate competitor and adventurer, with an impressive record including 7× Dutch Champion and two-time SUP World Champion (40+ category) in Thailand.

Free Movement blends structured coaching with exploration, helping paddlers build confidence, refine technique and enjoy the water safely in a supportive, well-paced environment.

Why Haarlem is the Perfect SUP Destination

Paddle Through the Heart of the City

From Free Movement, you can step straight onto your board and paddle onto the tranquil Spaarne River, exploring Haarlem’s historic canals from a completely different perspective.

Expect picturesque waterways, classic Dutch architecture and peaceful river stretches that make every session feel like both an adventure and a sightseeing tour. Routes range from relaxed 6 km loops to longer journeys of 20 km or more, with extended touring options connecting to other cities for those seeking bigger challenges.

City Attractions & Culture

When you’re not on the water, Haarlem is a delight to explore on foot or by bike. The city is rich in heritage, with 1,149 national monuments, including the impressive Grote of Sint-Bavokerk overlooking the Grote Markt, the historic central square filled with cafés, markets and lively terraces.

Haarlem is also a cultural hub, home to 22 museums. Highlights include Teylers Museum — the oldest museum in the Netherlands — where you can even see sketches by the Italian master Michelangelo, as well as Museum Haarlem for regional history. For something a little different, visit the Barrel Organ Museum or join a walking tour to uncover hidden streets and local stories.

Stay & Explore Nearby

Haarlem’s historic centre offers a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels to cosy hostels, many located around the lively Grote Markt. From here, it’s just a short walk to the canals and Free Movement’s waterside base.

Amsterdam is only a 15-minute train ride away, making Haarlem the perfect base to combine SUP adventure with city exploration.

Where to Eat in Haarlem

Haarlem has a vibrant food scene, all within easy walking distance of the canals and SUP routes. Around the Grote Markt, you’ll find everything from relaxed cafés to lively restaurants — ideal for refuelling after a paddle.

Enjoy waterside dining along the Spaarne River, brunch in one of the city’s many coffee spots, or try traditional Dutch pancakes, fresh seafood and international cuisine. In warmer months, terrace dining fills the streets and squares with atmosphere.

Best Time of Year to Visit & Paddle

The Netherlands is beautiful year-round, but the most popular SUP season runs from spring through summer.

Mid-March to May is a special time to visit, as the countryside bursts into colour with the famous Dutch tulip season — especially between Haarlem and Lisse. Temperatures can still be cool, but crowds are lower.

Summer offers warmer weather, long daylight hours and a lively atmosphere on and off the water. From October to February, temperatures drop significantly, making paddling less comfortable unless well prepared.

SUP Fun for All Levels

Whether you’re learning to stand up for the first time or working on technique, balance or distance paddling, Free Movement tailors sessions to your level. They also offer SUP rentals, allowing visitors to explore the canals independently at their own pace.

Become a SUP Instructor

Free Movement isn’t just a SUP school - it’s also an ASI Instructor Training Centre (ITC) and the only approved centre in the Netherlands delivering professional instructor education.

They run ASI SUP Instructor training courses throughout the year, covering Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications. Courses combine practical water skills, coaching techniques, safety, rescue knowledge and teaching methodology, all delivered in real SUP environments.

Training with Free Movement means learning from highly experienced coaches in a structured, supportive setting while gaining internationally recognised ASI certification. Whether you’re starting your journey as an instructor or progressing your professional pathway, Haarlem is a unique and inspiring place to train.

Get On the Water

From relaxed city tours to performance coaching, SUP in Haarlem offers something fresh for every paddler. Paddle through history, build your skills and experience one of Europe’s most beautiful and accessible SUP destinations.

For more about the city, visit: visithaarlem.org

Ready to explore?
Book SUP lessons and tours with Free Movement via ASI:
https://www.academyofsurfing.com/school/stand-up-paddle/free-movement

About ASI

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.