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
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
9 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Westende Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +13.0°C, warms up to +20.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Westende Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.6 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Westende Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 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.
Westende Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 9 000 metres.
Westende Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Westende Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Westende Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (seasonal). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Westende 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.
Westende 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.
Westende Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Grand Hotel Bellevue Restaurant, Beach Pavilions Westende, Brasserie Westende. Cuisines available: Belgian, Seafood, French. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Westende Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Headwear, Windbreaker (can be windy), Cash for parking.
Westende Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to swim is July and August, when the water warms up to 18-20°C. Mornings are less crowded and the water is calmer.
Westende Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim only in patrolled areas in high season. Dogs are prohibited on the beach from 15 June to 15 September. Outside this period dogs must be kept on a leash. Horse riding is allowed only in designated areas and at certain times.
Westende Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Westende Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the wide sandy beach and gentle entry into the water. Suitable for lovers of walking and cycling along the sea. Not suitable for surfers — waves are weak, or for those seeking warm water.
Westende Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Westende Beach is one of the widest on the Belgian coast, reaching 500 metres in some places. Orientation poles on the beach help visitors navigate the space. The resort has retained its Belle Époque charm with stately villas and the Grand Hotel Bellevue.
Westende Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: 9 km of wide sandy beach (up to 500 m wide), Gentle water entry, safe for children, Belgian coastal tram stops nearby, Orientation poles for navigation on the beach, Showers, toilets and lifeguards in high season, Well-developed promenade with cafes and restaurants, Scenic dunes and nature reserves, Parking near the beach. Cons: North Sea water is cool even in summer, Can be windy and cloudy, Weather is changeable, rain is possible, Swimming season is short — from June to September, No natural shade on the beach, Can be crowded in high season, Dogs are prohibited on the beach from 15 June to 15 September.
Westende Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Belgian Coastal Tram, Westhoek Nature Reserve, Grand Hotel Bellevue, Westende Polders. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Westende Beach: how do I get to the city of Middelkerke?
The beach is located near the city of Middelkerke. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Middelkerke.