Holiday homes at the Belgian coast

The Belgian coast has 67 kilometres of beach. The coastline ranges from lively seaside resorts like Knokke and Blankenberge to quieter gems such as De Haan or Bredene. In the west, De Panne feels a little wilder, with broad beaches and dunes that run deeper than you would expect. For anyone who wants to stay by the sea without travelling far, the Belgian coast is the obvious choice.

The coast has something timeless about it. The walk along the promenade, the smell of chips and sea air, the sound of the waves at night. Outside the high season it is quieter but no less beautiful: empty beaches, fresh air and cosy pubs where the regulars know everyone.

The Belgian coast has ten seaside resorts, each with its own character. Knokke-Heist is the smart side: broad avenues, art galleries, the Zwin nature reserve and elegant apartments with sea views. For those who love a lively atmosphere, Ostend is the place to be, the largest coastal town, with a fish market, museums and a bustling promenade. Blankenberge attracts families with its pier, sand yachts and child-friendly beaches.

In the west, De Panne feels wilder: the widest beach on the coast and the dunes of the Westhoek within walking distance. The neighbouring town of Koksijde combines dune calm with good restaurants. For more peace and quiet, choose De Haan with its Belle Époque villa district, or Nieuwpoort, known for its marina and the mouth of the Yser. Bredene offers a relaxed, easy-going atmosphere with plenty of space on the beach.

In July and August the coast bursts with life: full terraces, sand yachts on the beach and entertainment on the promenade. It is the warmest period, but also the busiest and most expensive. Book well in advance then, because the best properties go months ahead.

Outside the high season the coast shows another side. Autumn brings empty beaches, powerful waves and clear walking weather. Spring is ideal for cycling the coastal route or seeing the dunes in bloom. Even in winter a stay by the sea has charm: a brisk beach walk, followed by a warm bowl of mussels. Rates are then lower and dogs are allowed on almost all beaches.

The apartment is by far the most popular choice by the sea. For a couple or a small family, a flat on the sea dyke is ideal: see the sea in the morning, walk to the beach during the day and eat nearby in the evening without taking the car. When searching, pay attention to the floor and the orientation, as a corner or front apartment offers the best sea view.

Families with children or larger groups more often choose a holiday house with a garden, just behind the dunes. There is room to play, barbecue and store the bikes. For more space and comfort, the coast also has spacious villas and penthouses with several bedrooms, sometimes with their own terrace or garage. Look carefully at the number of bedrooms and bathrooms in relation to the group.

The price of a coastal stay depends heavily on the season, the place and the type of property. An apartment for two people costs on average 90 to 160 euros per night in high season; in autumn and winter that often drops below 80 euros. Knokke-Heist and Ostend are generally higher than the western towns such as De Panne or Nieuwpoort.

A spacious holiday house for six to eight people with a garden starts at around 150 euros per night and rises in summer to 300 euros or more. Count on additional costs with every booking, such as final cleaning, tourist tax and sometimes the rental of bed linen. Booking early for the high season often gives the best price.