Drone Photography on Texel: Capturing the Island in Spectacular Style

From the air, Texel looks completely different! But how do you capture the perfect drone shot?

In this story, I share my drone photography journey, reveal the most breathtaking spots to capture on Texel from the sky, and give you hands-on tips for creating powerful aerial images.

Texel, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands, is a true paradise for photographers. With its vast beaches, rolling dunes, forests, and charming villages, the island offers countless opportunities for stunning aerial shots. It’s no surprise that drone photography is a popular activity here — but it’s essential to stay informed about the rules and responsibilities that come with flying a drone.

Why Texel Is Perfect for Drone Photography
Texel is incredibly diverse. Picture the iconic lighthouse near De Cocksdorp, the winding dune roads of De Slufter, or the colorful tulip fields in spring. From above, you truly get a sense of the island’s scale and variety.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the salt marshes, the Wadden Sea, and the rich birdlife. If you're into architecture, Texel’s characteristic villages like Oudeschild and Den Hoorn offer great subjects for aerial photography as well.

What Are the Rules for Flying a Drone on Texel?
The Netherlands has strict regulations for drone use, and Texel is no exception. Since the island contains protected nature reserves and lies near military zones, there are extra precautions to consider:

1. Always check no-fly zones
Texel lies partially within controlled airspace (CTR) of De Kooy Air Base. There are also Natura 2000 areas on the island where flying is either restricted or completely prohibited. Use apps like GoDrone or Drone Preflight to check your location in advance.

2. Keep your distance from people and animals
Drones are not allowed to fly over crowds, and on Texel, wildlife should not be disturbed. Be especially cautious during bird breeding season (March 15 – July 15).

3. Maximum altitude: 120 meters
Under EU regulations for recreational use, you can fly up to 120 meters as long as your drone remains in your line of sight.

4. Fly only during daylight and in good weather
Night flying requires a special permit. Also avoid strong coastal winds — they can be unexpectedly dangerous.

5. Is your drone registered?
If your drone weighs more than 250 grams, registration with the RDW is required in the Netherlands. You must also complete an online course and test.

6. Low altitude, big impact
You don’t always need to fly high to capture amazing views. I often fly at just 10–20 meters — even at that height, the perspective shifts dramatically, offering a unique look at the landscape and natural areas.

Best Places to Fly (Where It's Allowed)
Texel Lighthouse – Iconic and perfect for aerial shots, but watch out for nearby nature reserves.
Beach near Paal 21 – Wide, open beach areas, especially beautiful at low tide.
Oudeschild and the harbor – Great views of fishing boats and the Wadden Sea. Be mindful of maritime traffic.
De Slufter (from the edge!) – Flying directly over the nature reserve is prohibited, but you can still capture stunning images from its borders.

Tips for Stunning Drone Shots on Texel
Fly during golden hour – Just after sunrise or before sunset provides warm, soft lighting.
Use filters – ND filters help balance exposure during bright daylight.
Think about composition – Use natural lines like beach paths, dikes, or dune patterns to create strong visual flow.
Watch the wind – Coastal winds can be surprisingly strong. Always check the forecast and your battery level before takeoff.

In Conclusion: Fly with Respect
Texel is breathtaking from above, and we’d like to keep it that way. Always fly with respect for nature, people, and regulations. That’s the only way to ensure drone pilots remain welcome on the island in the future.