City swimmers spoilt for choice.

The latest addition to Amsterdams range of city beaches is Strand West open till 30 September, near the Houthavens in the borough of Westerpark which has 20,000 sqm of sand beside the waters of the IJmeer, with cafs and volleyball facilities. Amsterdam Plage (15 June to 15 September) at Stenen Hoofd, just west of Central Station, is another popular swimming spot with the beach extending along a historic dike projecting far into the IJ. Then theres Blijburg aan Zee beach, open till 30 August on the newly developed artificial islands of IJburg on the IJ waterway, which has moved 400 metres upriver since last year. Offering 250m x 40m of sandy shore, Blijburg also has a beach bar caf, an open kitchen and a lifeguard, and is just a short tram ride away from Central Station. The Supperclub Oasis boat provides a luxury alternative to sandy beaches, cruising the IJ and dropping anchor at Java Island, the Oranjesluizen, Blijburg and Pampus Island.