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
40 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: 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.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 40 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.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: 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.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: 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.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: 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.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: De Walvis, Bistro Koksijde, L-Océan. Cuisines available: Belgian, Seafood, French. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Windbreaker, Cash, Beach umbrella.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from June to September. In the morning there is less wind and fewer people. Horseback shrimp fishing can be seen on certain days (usually in the warm season).
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming only in zones where lifeguards are on duty. Littering on the beach is prohibited.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the gentle entry and lifeguards. Suitable for nature lovers, walkers and those interested in unique traditions.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Oostduinkerke-Bad is the only place in the world where shrimp fishing on horseback is still practised. This tradition was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2013.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Three-kilometre sandy beach, Gentle water entry, Lifeguards in season, Horseback shrimp fishing tradition (UNESCO), Heated outdoor pool on the promenade, Children-s play area, Daily cleaning, Beach pavilions and terraces. Cons: Cold water, Strong winds, Crowded in high season, Limited natural shade.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: National Fisheries Museum, Doornpanne Nature Reserve, Koksijde Promenade. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Oostduinkerke-Bad Beach: how do I get to the city of Koksijde?
The beach is located near the city of Koksijde. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Koksijde.