Middelkerke Beach

Middelkerke Beach is the central beach of the Middelkerke resort on the West Flanders coast of Belgium, about 15 minutes by tram from Ostend. The sand is fine and pale, spreading into a broad shore at low tide, and the North Sea water is grey-green and cool, with clarity varying according to wind and tide. The beach is open and exposed to onshore winds, with gentle surf that suits paddling and swimming within sight of the summer lifeguards; water-sports hire is available for those who want to get on the waves. Behind the sand runs a long promenade along the sea wall, lined with beach bars, restaurants and shops, and the resort is known for its seafront casino and for sculptural installations placed along the Zeedijk, linked to the coastal art triennial. The atmosphere is busy and family oriented, with summer beach fairs and activities, livelier than neighbouring Westende. Amenities include showers, toilets, beach bars and restaurants, hire of water-sports equipment and lifeguards in summer. Access is easy, as the Kusttram (coastal tram, De Lijn) stops at Middelkerke Casino, and the coastal cycle route runs along the dunes. Middelkerke has a railway link via nearby stations, with local connections; many visitors arrive by tram or car, and parking in town fills on sunny weekends. The flat promenade makes the beach pleasant for walking and cycling, and visitors who want quieter sand can walk toward Westende to the west or Mariakerke and Ostend to the east. Evening light on the sea wall and sculptures suits photography.