A wonderful long beach with many activities and cosy restaurants. Since the last couple of years a group of seals lives near the beach of Koksijde. The beach has an average breadth of 50 meters and runs all the way to Dunkirk, which means it has a length of more than 10 kilometres.
During the high season the beach is fairly crowded, but if you take a short walk outside the village, you can enjoy the rest and space. The beach not only is an attractive place for ones that want to lay down the beach all day long, but it also offers you a wide range of sport activities.
The beaches will be cleaned everyday during the summer. Besides the rescue brigade will guard the beaches and warns when there is a dangerous current or wind; a pleasant and safe feeling.
Facilities
A sunbath or a walk along the beach, playing fun or water sports. The very well maintained, white beaches of will offer you peace and quietness. Optimum facilities will tribute to the comfort and with that the holiday pleasure of the guests. It starts with accessible beach crossings and the lifeguards whom watch over the well being of the guests, with a First aid post nearby. Furthermore the local cafes, terraces and restaurants near the beach will take care of the needs for serving drinks, icecream, lunch and diner.
If the rescue stations are not open, a general swimming prohibition applies. This is clearly indicated with signs 'forbidden to bathe' and / or wind bags. On this page you can check where you can go for a safe splash in the water!
In 2012 received the ‘Quality Coast Award’ for its high quality of human and nature-friendly tourism.
Orientation Poles on the Beach
On the main beaches of Koksijde, eye-catching orientation poles are placed during the summer season. Each pole has a unique figure on top – like an animal or symbol – clearly visible from a distance. They are mainly intended as reference points for children.
For children: The recognisable figures help them remember where they are sitting or where their parents are.
For parents: Agree on a specific pole in advance as a meeting point to find each other again.
Flags and Their Meanings
On the beaches of Koksijde, you will find various information signs and beach flags to inform and warn swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and other beachgoers about the risks associated with swimming in the sea. Below you will find the meanings of these flags:
Green Flag
Normal sea
Swimming is allowed.
Yellow Flag
Be cautious while swimming! Do not use flotation devices!
You may swim, but all floating and inflatable objects are not allowed in the sea due to offshore wind.
Red Flag
Do not swim! Very dangerous sea
Warns of serious danger and is raised when swimming conditions are very dangerous. Swimming, bathing, and other activities in or on the sea are prohibited.
Pay attention to these flags and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards for your safety and the safety of others on the beach.
Dogs on the Beach
For many dogs, the beach is the ultimate place to run, play, and swim. Whether it’s a seaside walk in the fresh sea breeze or a cheerful game with a frisbee or ball – dogs clearly enjoy a day by the sea. But please note: on many beaches, seasonal rules apply regarding dogs.
Your dog is allowed on the beach. However, there is one exception: from 1 June to 15 September, dogs are only allowed in three dog zones between 10.30 am and 6.30 pm.
Sint-Idesbald: from the municipal border with De Panne to the Pieterlaan (approx. 350 metres),
Koksijde: between Elisabethplein and Sint-André (G. Scottlaan) (approx. 1,170 metres),
Oostduinkerke: between Felix Timmermanslaan and Paardevissersweg (Groenendijk) (approx. 1,625 metres).
At low tide there is a strong current towards the sea, than stay close to shore. In case you get pulled in by the current do not try to swim straight against it, but swim slanting to the shore with the current. Also be aware of floating devices like air-beds, boats or other swimming devices.
Do not get to close to the poles, piers or other obstacles.
Watch your children carefully, do not let them alone near the water. Are there recognition signs on the beach, tell it to your children.
Leashed dogs are allowed all year: