On December 22, 2024, Bernie’s Beach Club, located on the Boulevard Barnaart in Zandvoort, was engulfed by flames, leading to its total destruction. Owned by Prince Bernhard Jr. and his partner Menno de Jong, the beach club became the focus of law enforcement as three minors were arrested on suspicion of arson.
The incident, which occurred in the late afternoon, caught the attention of nearby residents and prompted quick action from emergency services. A spokesperson for the Veiligheidsregio Kennemerland reported, "The beach club is no longer salvageable; the fire has destroyed most of the structure." Fire crews quickly determined the structure was beyond saving and allowed it to burn out under controlled conditions due to safety concerns.
Witnesses indicated they had seen a group of five youths near the site just before the fire erupted, and following the ensuing investigation, police apprehended three boys. A police spokesperson stated, "We are still searching for two other suspects," underscoring the active investigation and the seriousness of the situation.
The rapid spread of the fire led authorities to issue a NL Alert, advising local residents to close windows and doors due to heavy smoke. Fortunately, the beach club was empty at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported. The fire’s intensity, unfortunately, resulted in significant damage, with the club being described as entirely destroyed.
Bernie’s Beach Club had been part of the vibrant beach culture at Zandvoort, enjoying popularity among both locals and tourists. The future for such establishments may now seem uncertain, especially with upcoming changes to the Grand Prix Dutch Formula 1 racing schedule, set to make its final appearance at the local circuit in 2026.
Reflecting on the incident, the community has expressed shock at the loss of such a beloved venue. The police are continuing their efforts to piece together the events surrounding the incident, and the investigation remains open as they search for the remaining suspect.
Local authorities and residents are hoping for swift justice and clarity on the motivations behind this reckless act. This case serves as a somber reminder of the impacts of fire-related incidents on community spaces, reinforcing the need for vigilance and safety measures.
The police are appealing to anyone with information about the fire or the suspects to come forward. The investigation is expected to continue as the community seeks answers and the authorities work to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
