1. Zeebrugge
Zeebrugge is a popular resort at the western end of the Belgian coast, about 19 kilometers north of Brugeswhich. It’s also of interest to travelers visiting Belgium primarily for its First World War history. This port was an important German U-boat base during the war and was at the center of the action on St. George’s Day in 1918 when the base was destroyed in a spectacular military assault. The memorial for this event is at the landward end of the breakwater.
Early risers here should make their way to the fishing port by 7am to witness the arrival of Zeebrugge’s daily flotilla of colorful fishing boats coming in with their catch. Afterwards, there’s great local photography opportunities in the fish auction hall where the daily catch is sold from 9:30am.
A meander along the seafront (Vismijnstraat) to see the former Belgian lightship and a Russian submarine is a must for visitors. For those who fancy a more nature-filled walk, the coastline from here – extending all the way to Blankenberge – is marked by the Fonteintjes Dunes, which offer ample beach hiking potential.
2. Ostend Harbor and Beachfront
Ostend (in Flemish Oostende) may be the most important ferry harbor in Belgium and the main port for ferry traffic to Great Britain, but it’s also one of the most popular seaside resorts in Europe, with a history as a major spa destination since the 1930s. During summer, the five beaches here are crowded with local holidaymakers.
The most popular strips of sand are the beaches of Mariakerke and Raversijde, west of the racecourse. The main seaside road is Albert I Promenade where history lovers can pause to admire the façade of Ostend Leisure Complex, originally built in 1745 and restored to its former finery in 1953 after suffering destruction during the Second World War. The first floor of the building is decorated with frescoes by Paul Delvaux.
For a good overview of the beachscape, walk out to the western breakwater where you can enjoy the best viewpoint in town, while if you stroll west along the promenade, you’ll come to the sand dunes of Westende and the royal residence and spa complex. Ostend lies about 29 kilometers west of Bruges.
