Combine water and sugar in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
Lower to a simmer and add strawberries to saucepan. Stir to combine.
Let simmer until sugar is dissolved and syrup begins to thicken, about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and strain syrup through a fine mesh sieve, discarding solids, into a heatproof container like a bowl or a mason jar.
Add one vanilla bean to container and place in fridge to cool for at least three hours before using.