3. Blankenberge
One of Belgium’s top resort towns, Blankenberge is best known for its activity-filled promenade known as the Zeeddjik. Just 18 kilometers from Bruges, this beach can be crowded on hot days, adding to the lively atmosphere. Resorts line the waterfront, some of which have gated sections for guests, while many others offer seaside dining for the general public.
The eastern half of the beach is where tourists will find most of the activity suited for day visitors, like supply rentals and more casual eateries. This is also where the majority of the beach huts are located, as well as public playgrounds and nearby activities for kids like mini golf and go-karts. At the western end of the beach, two long wooden-plank piers stretch out into the North Sea for amazing views.
Those who want to enjoy the coast’s nature will find 10 bicycle trails and many walking trails that explore the dunes and the more scenic areas near the shore. Visitors who want to explore beyond the sand will find plenty of things to do, including an excellent aquarium at Sea Life Blankenberge. There is also a lovely Gothic church, Sint-Antoniuskerk, that was built in the 1350s.
4. Zeebrugge Beach
Zebrugge’s beach sits west of the port and extends to Oostende, totaling approximately 20 kilometers long and an average of 70 meters wide at high tide. The beach has a combination of dunes and flat sand, and the more central portions can get very crowded in the summer thanks to its proximity to Bruges. Those driving to Zebrugge on a day trip from Bruges will be relieved to find plenty of free parking near the beach.
Surfing is a popular sport here, as are kiteboarding and windsurfing. There are numerous vendors offering rentals of water sports equipment, as well as shade umbrellas and chairs. During the high season, tourists will also find a good variety of street vendors selling everything from ice cream to sunblock.
For a change of pace, tourists will find many options for sightseeing cruises, and this is also a popular place to catch a ferry to the United Kingdom for a quick visit across the pond.
Zebrugge is not just a beach town – it is also an important harbor for both fishing and trade. One of the joys of visiting Zebrugge is watching the flotilla of fishing boats return to the port each morning. After the colorful boats dock, walk to the auction hall where the fishermen sell the day’s catch. This is one of the largest fish markets in Europe.
If you like sweet more than salty, make your way to the local chocolate factory, P&J Chocolates-a Belgian, where you can get a tour and plenty of fine goodies to take home.
Zebrugge is also well-known for its historical significance during World War I, formerly serving as a port for German U-boats until the base was taken out in 1918. There is a St. George’s Day memorial at the site.
The Seafront Maritime Theme Park also delves into the port’s history, as well as its cultural traditions surrounding the fishing industry. «Operation North Sea» is an interactive exhibit for all ages that explores the Battle of the Scheldt in 1955-45, and there are numerous hands-on exhibits for kids.
