Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
480 m
Frequently asked questions
Noodstrand: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +12.0°C, warms up to +20.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Noodstrand: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Noodstrand: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Noodstrand: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 480 metres.
Noodstrand: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July, August. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Noodstrand: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Noodstrand: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Jellyfish (in warm months), Sand fleas. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Noodstrand: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Noodstrand: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Noodstrand: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Brasserie Duine, Restaurant Oesterbank, Beach Bar Zeezicht. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Noodstrand: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Windbreaker, Cash, Beach umbrella.
Noodstrand: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from June to September. In the morning there is less wind and fewer people.
Noodstrand: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming only in zones where lifeguards are on duty. Littering on the beach is prohibited.
Noodstrand: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for locals and tourists seeking a quiet beach away from the busy centre of Ostend. Suitable for families with children.
Noodstrand: what makes this beach unique?
Noodstrand is an artificial "emergency beach" created to protect the Ostend coast from erosion. It is one of the few beaches where swimming was officially permitted only after 2004.
Noodstrand: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Calm atmosphere, Gentle water entry, Good water quality, Lifeguards in season, Daily cleaning, Free access. Cons: Small beach length, Limited infrastructure, Cold water, Strong winds.
Noodstrand: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Ostend Promenade, Mercator Sailing Ship, Mu.ZEE Museum. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Noodstrand: how do I get to the city of Ostend?
The beach is located near the city of Ostend. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Ostend.