One of Belgium's best-kept secrets is its beautiful beaches. Only 50 minutes by train from Brussels, a visit to the Belgian coast is a great way to relax, enjoy the pleasant weather and take a break from the city lifestyle. With Michelin-Star restaurants lining the 65km long stretch of golden sandy beach, a choice of thrilling watersport activities and a convenient tram line which runs the entire length of the coast, a visit to the Belgian coast is a great way to relax.
As the first and only nudist beach in Belgium, Bredene Beach is a popular place for sunbathing among local naturists and holidaymakers from the first weekend before Easter all the way through the second weekend of October. The 400-meter-long stretch of sandy beach isn’t visible from any road or major walkway thanks to it being situated at the foot of a protected dune reserve, guaranteeing a bit of privacy.
Complete with white sandy beaches and rolling dunes, De Panne is one of the largest beach resorts in Belgium, stretching almost endlessly in both directions. The coastline is home to four nature reserves and a wildlife refuge, where holidaymakers can enjoy activities such as land-yachting, surfing, sailing, fishing, biking and horse-riding.
The North Sea might be bracing, but this well maintained, family-friendly 9km stretch of beach is ideal for sun-seeking holidaymakers. Ostende is a lively hub which is also home to an eclectic range of shops, great museums and Belgium's biggest casino. Trains leave from Brussels every 30 minutes making Ostend Beach the perfect place to catch some sun for a day trip or even longer.