Beach of Middelkerke

The beach line of Middelkerke is the longest of Belgium. And did you know that Middelkerke counts the most sun hours of the entire Belgian coast? If you are interested in a beach holiday in Belgium, Middelkerke definitely is a good destination!

The beaches will be cleaned everyday during the summer. Besides the rescue brigade will guard the beaches and warns when there is a dangerous current or wind; a pleasant and safe feeling.

Facilities

A sunbath or a walk along the beach, playing fun or water sports. The very well maintained, white beaches of will offer you peace and quietness. Optimum facilities will tribute to the comfort and with that the holiday pleasure of the guests. It starts with accessible beach crossings and the lifeguards whom watch over the well being of the guests, with a First aid post nearby. Furthermore the local cafes, terraces and restaurants near the beach will take care of the needs for serving drinks, icecream, lunch and diner.

If the rescue stations are not open, a general swimming prohibition applies. This is clearly indicated with signs 'forbidden to bathe' and / or wind bags. On this page you can check where you can go for a safe splash in the water!

In Middelkerke you can swim under supervision of safeguards and first-aid professionals during July and August. The beach is also provided with many showers.

Orientation poles

During the summer season, several orientation poles are located on the main beaches of Middelkerke. They are a landmark for children on the beach. Each beach orientation pole has a clearly different figure at the top. For children it is easier to make their own way back to the rest of the family, even on a beach full of people. Moreover, it is easier to bring a lost child back to the family.

Flags and Their Meanings

On the beaches of Middelkerke, 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 at the beach

The beach is the ideal destination for many dogs to enjoy. A Frisbee, a stick or a ball can fetch give great pleasure. And what is more fun than making a beach walk with your dog? However, on various beaches are dogs, loose or on a leash, not allowed all year.

• Dogs are prohibited on the beaches of Middelkerke during the period 15 June till 15 September.
• Outside of the above mentioned period are only leased dogs allowed on the beaches of Middelkerke.

Further, we also recommend reading the information board, with the local beach rules, which is often placed near every beach (entrance).

Nearest beach for dogs at Middelkerke

Leashed dogs are allowed all year:

• from beach Carlton in the direction Oostende;
• from beach Louis Logierlaan in the direction Westende.

Beach tips

• 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.
• Help to keep the beaches clean.