The beach of Blankenberge is one of Belgium’s most popular seaside resorts, known for its lively atmosphere, wide stretch of sand and many beachfront amenities.
Vast sandy beach:The beach stretches about 6 kilometres in length and up to 350 metres in width – perfect for sunbathing, beach games, or long walks along the water’s edge.
The only pier on the Belgian coast:The iconic Blankenberge Pier extends 350 metres into the sea and features a panoramic pavilion with a café, exhibitions, and unique views of the coastline.
Beach bars and dining:Along the beach you'll find modern beach bars, cosy beach clubs and restaurants with sunny terraces – ideal for a seaside lunch or a summer cocktail at sunset.
Family-friendly:The sea is usually calm and shallow, and there are several supervised swimming zones. There's also an adventure playground on the beach and a mini fairground just behind the promenade.
Marina:On the eastern side lies the Blankenberge marina, where you can book boat trips or simply enjoy the view of the sailing yachts.
Nature and education:Just a short walk from the beach is Sea Life Blankenberge, where you can learn all about marine life in the North Sea – perfect for families.
The city offers a variety of beaches, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal.
The Central Beach of Blankenberge is the most visited beach in the city. It is close to the city centre and the Zeedijk, making it easily accessible. This beach is known for its fine sand and width, providing ample space for various activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. During the summer, the beach is dotted with colourful beach huts that are available for hire for the day or the season. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a snack or a drink with a view of the sea.
The Eastern Beach is a quieter part of the beach, located to the east of the pier. It is less crowded than the Central Beach and is an ideal place for those who wish to enjoy a quiet day at the seaside. This beach is surrounded by dunes, giving it a more natural look and making it a great place to walk and enjoy the beauty of the Belgian coast.
The Western Beach, located to the west of the pier, is also a quieter area. This beach is particularly appreciated for its natural surroundings and beautiful sunsets. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the sea. The Western Beach is also popular among water sports enthusiasts and is a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Each of these beaches offers something unique and appealing to visitors. Whether you are looking for the vibrant atmosphere of the Central Beach, the tranquillity of the Eastern or Western Beach, or the stunning views from the pier, there is something for everyone in Blankenberge.
Facilities & Safety on the Beach
The beaches of Blankenberge are clean, well-maintained, and fully equipped for a relaxing day by the sea.
Daily cleaning: Every summer day, the beaches are cleaned to ensure you can enjoy a fresh and tidy spot on the sand.
Showers: Showers are located throughout the beach to rinse off sand and seawater – perfect after swimming or playing.
Lifeguards & First Aid: During the summer season, the lifeguard service and beach patrols ensure your safety. At the busier beach entrances, first aid stations are available to assist in case of accidents or injuries.
Swimming safety outside patrol hours: When lifeguard stations are closed, a general swimming ban applies. This is clearly indicated by 'no swimming' signs and/or wind socks. For up-to-date information on patrolled zones and safe swimming areas, visit www.ikwv.be.
Comfort for everyone
Whether you're here to sunbathe, walk, play or enjoy water sports – the wide beaches of Blankenberge offer peace, space, and comfort for all ages.
Accessibility: Many beach entrances are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Nearby car parks make your beach visit even easier.
Food and drinks within reach: Along the beach you'll find inviting pavilions and terraces where you can enjoy an ice cream, lunch, drink or dinner with a sea view.
The beach at Blankenberge is nearly six kilometres in length and 350 metres wide and has many facilities like changing rooms, sun screens and beachchairs for rent. It also has many sports facilities, showers, toilets, several bars and restaurants and a sufficient parking space.
Flags and Their Meanings
On the beaches of Blankenberge, you will find various information signs and beach flags to inform and warn swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and other beachgoers about the risks associated with swimming in the sea. Below you will find the meanings of these flags:
Green Flag
Normal sea
Swimming is allowed.
Yellow Flag
Be cautious while swimming! Do not use flotation devices!
You may swim, but all floating and inflatable objects are not allowed in the sea due to offshore wind.
Red Flag
Do not swim! Very dangerous sea
Warns of serious danger and is raised when swimming conditions are very dangerous. Swimming, bathing, and other activities in or on the sea are prohibited.
Pay attention to these flags and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards for your safety and the safety of others on the beach.
Dogs on the Beach
For many dogs, the beach is the ultimate place to run, play, and swim. Whether it’s a seaside walk in the fresh sea breeze or a cheerful game with a frisbee or ball – dogs clearly enjoy a day by the sea. But please note: on many beaches, seasonal rules apply regarding dogs.
Dogs are prohibited on the beaches of Blankenberge during the period from Easter vacation till 15 September.
Outside of the above mentioned period are only leased dogs allowed on the beaches of Blankenberge.
Further, we also recommend reading the information board, with the local beach rules, which is often placed near every beach (entrance).
At low tide there is a strong current towards the sea, than stay close to shore. In case you get pulled in by the current do not try to swim straight against it, but swim slanting to the shore with the current. Also be aware of floating devices like air-beds, boats or other swimming devices.
Do not get to close to the poles, piers or other obstacles.
Watch your children carefully, do not let them alone near the water. Are there recognition signs on the beach, tell it to your children.