Koksijde, a picturesque town on the Belgian coast, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Rich in history, pulsing with culture, and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Koksijde offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure that will captivate visitors of all ages.
A Quaint Seaside Town
The charming Koksijde, situated on the northern coast of Belgium, exudes a tranquil, easy-going atmosphere. The coastal town is a true delight for the senses, with its flower-filled streets, lush dune landscapes, and the soothing sea glistening on the horizon. Koksijde has earned the well-deserved title of 'Floral Seaside Town', thanks to the colourful boutiques and flower-rich events such as the Easter flower market, the summer flower ball, and the flower painter's parade.
Beaches and Activities
The expansive beach of Koksijde, stretching over 10 kilometres to Dunkirk, France, is a true oasis of tranquillity. The fine sand and the calming sound of the waves create the perfect setting for a relaxed day by the sea. But Koksijde is not just for sunbathers. More active travellers can enjoy a wide range of watersports, including surfing, sailing, and kitesurfing. Additionally, numerous beach restaurants invite you to enjoy culinary delights with a splendid view of the sea.
Historical Charm
Koksijde is not only rich in natural beauty, but also in history and culture. The village, once a simple fishing village, is now home to beautiful villas and stylish apartments. The white fishermen's houses in the centre serve as a reminder of Koksijde's maritime heritage, while the villas from the early 20th century bear witness to the town's development as a holiday destination.
Sint-Idesbald
The quieter part of Koksijde, Sint-Idesbald, houses a peaceful villa district in the dunes. It's a perfect spot for those seeking tranquillity and privacy, just a stone's throw from the livelier Koksijde-Bad.
Culture and Art
Art lovers will feel right at home in Koksijde. The former casino in the centre now serves as a space for art and culture, with a varied programme running throughout the year. Furthermore, Koksijde was the home of the famous painter Paul Delvaux, whose life and work are honoured in the Delvaux museum in Sint-Idesbald.
Another cultural highlight in Koksijde is the Abbey Museum Ter Duinen. The impressive ruins of this abbey, once one of the most important religious institutes in Flanders, are a must-see for any history enthusiast.
Museum Paul Delvaux
Away from the crowd you can find the heart of the coastal Flemish art. In the midst of the Sint Idesbald living area one can get an insight into the life of artist Paul Delvaux (1897-1994). The doubter eventually went along with the foundation and the museum. Nowadays we may count ourselves lucky that the foundation and the museum ...
The abbey ‘Ter Duinen’ is surrounded by dunes and originated from a little church and hermitage anno 1107. In 1138 the ‘Cisterziënerorde’ community joined. This made Robrecht van Brugge the first priest. Ever since the influence of the abbey increased. The construction of the abbey was completed in 1262. Between 1260 and 1275 the ...
Thanks to its location on the Belgian coast, Koksijde is the perfect base for day trips to nearby towns such as Oostende, Knokke-Heist, and historic Bruges. Explore the coast by bike, on foot, on horseback, or on roller skates via one of the many beautiful routes. And after a day full of adventure, there's nothing better than relaxing with a long walk along the beach, breathing in the salty sea air, and admiring the sunset.
Koksijde is a unique destination that will surprise you with its charm and versatility. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, culture, or gastronomy, Koksijde has it all. Discover it for yourself and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty and hospitality of this beautiful Belgian coastal town.
