Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
brown
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
6 000 m
Frequently asked questions
West Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +17.0°C, warms up to +22.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
West Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
West Beach: 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.
West Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — brown. Texture — fine. Beach length — 6 000 metres.
West Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in August, September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
West Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
West 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.
West Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
West 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.
West Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Beach Bar Blankenberge, Restaurant Pier. Cuisines available: Belgian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
West Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Warm clothes, Windbreaker.
West Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is from July to August when the water is warmest. Fewer people in the morning.
West Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Making fires is prohibited. Take your rubbish with you.
West Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
West Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the gentle entry, shallow water and lifeguards. Suitable for active holidays and walks along the promenade. Not suitable for those seeking solitude — a popular city spot.
West Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The West Beach is part of Blankenberge-s six-kilometre sandy beach with the only 350-metre pier on the Belgian coast. The beach features soft sugar sand without stones or shells.
West Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: One of the longest sandy beaches in Belgium, about 6 km long, Soft fine sand without stones or shells, Gentle water entry, safe for children, The only pier on the Belgian coast, Developed infrastructure: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, lifeguards, Kids playground and sports zones, Numerous restaurants and bars along the promenade, Access for people with disabilities. Cons: Cool water even in summer (North Sea), Short swimming season (June–September), Crowded in high season, Noisy due to proximity to the town, No natural shade on the beach, Parking can be full.
West Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Blankenberge Pier, Sea Life Blankenberge, Belle Époque Centre. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
West 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.
West Beach: how do I get to the city of Blankenberge?
The beach is located near the city of Blankenberge. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Blankenberge.