The perfect family Holiday always begins at the seaside, with sandcastles, seafood and a fresh sea breeze. Most British families flock to France or Spain for their yearly getaway, so what about a holiday somewhere  different? While the beaches of Belgium have long been celebrated by their neighbours in the Netherlands, us Brits have overseen the many qualities of the Flemish coast. With Michelin-Star restaurants punctuating the miles of golden sandy beach,  a tramline which runs the entire length of the coast and an outstanding Sea Life centre, the Belgian coast is this year’s top family travel destination

1. De Panne

De Panne is the most southernly seaside Resort of Belgian’s modest coastline. Famous for its wide, sandy beaches and elongated dunes, De Panne is one of the biggest beach resorts on the Belgian coast. A particular highlight for families is Plopsaland De Panne, one of Belgium’s most beloved theme parks. While you’re there, enjoy your stay at Holiday Suites Appartementen De Panne. This apartment complex is located on the oldest nature reserve in Flanders: the Westhoekreservaat. Cycle through the dunes, ride horseback along the beach and enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

2. Nieuwpoort

Nieuwpoort was once an old fishing port and is now a swanky resort very popular among water sports enthusiasts. Renowned for its seafood and chic restaurants, this beach also features a traffic free promenade, making it a popular destination for families. Enjoy a stay at Vakantiedorp Marinapark and explore the surroundings.

3. Ostend

Ostend boasts 9 kilometres of sandy beach right and miles of refreshing North Sea swimming opportunities. In terms of culture, Ostend is absolutely the most vibrant of Belgium’s sea resorts. Only 30 minutes from Brussels, this city hosts one of the most spectacular sand sculpture festivals in Europe in the months of July and August. For those who want to spend a few days exploring Ostend and its surroundings, Park Merlo is an excellent holiday park for families, with facilities such as a mini golf course, a petting zoo and an excellent bicycle rental service.

4. De Haan

For those who are looking for a sleepier resort than the lively centre of Ostend, De Haan is a fantastic option. With picturesque Anglo Normal style holiday cottages, De Haan is just an hour’s cycle ride from Ostend and offers a calmer and quieter beach experience. Most holiday parks offer bicycle rental, and a cycle along the coastal path backed by dunes and charming villages will be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

5. Blankenberg

If you’re looking to party while you’re in Belgium, Blankenberg is the place to go. The city that never sleeps is brimming with top quality bars, restaurants and clubs and undeniably has the best nightlife of all the coastal resorts. Another very good reason to visit, however, is to go to the excellent Sea Life Centre, one of the largest aquariums in Belgium. Stay at Holiday Suites Appartemented Blankenberge and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean, or cosy up at the small-scale Zeepark Haerendycke, offering comfortable accommodations and facilities for children.

And one more for luck: Knokke-Heist

Last but most definitely not least is the chic and sophisticated resort of Knokke-Heist. Located just outside of Bruges, this resort is second home to many of the Brussels elite. There are five beaches at this resort: Heist, Duinbergen, Albertstrand, Knokke and the Zoute. To top it all off, Het Zwin nature reserve is one of the most beautiful in Belgium. Enjoy a holiday in Knokke-Heist and explore this gorgeous part of the coast as well as the charming city of Bruges. Stay in one of the luxury villas at Roompot Noordzee Residence Cadzand-Bad in Holland and pop over the border for a day in Knokke Heist.

Book your next Belgian beach getaway

Skip the Costa Brava this year and explore the beaches of Belgium with HolidayParkSpecials.co.uk. We offer deals and discounts all year round. Have a look at our holiday parks on the Belgian coast and book now.