Koksijde Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Koksijde. This travel guide will highlight the natural attractions, cultural landmarks, hiking/biking routes, and food scene of Koksijde, Belgium.


Introduction to Koksijde

Nestled on the Belgian coast of Flanders, Koksijde is a city that is rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world each year. Whether you are interested in hiking, cycling, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the beach, Koksijde has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Koksijde.

List of Places to Visit in Koksijde

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Koksijde is home to several historical landmarks that are definitely worth visiting, including the Abbey of Ten Duinen, which is a 13th-century Cistercian abbey that now houses a museum; the Paul Delvaux museum, which houses the works of one of Belgium’s most famous surrealist painters; and the Noordzee Aquarium, where you can get up close and personal with the marine life of the North Sea.

Natural Attractions of Koksijde: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Koksijde is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Belgium. One of the most popular destinations is the Hoge Blekker nature reserve, which offers stunning views of the surrounding dunes and the North Sea. The Koksijde-Oostduinkerke beach is also a great place to relax and enjoy the sun, while the Ter Yde nature reserve provides an opportunity to explore a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Koksijde

Koksijde is perfect for cycling and hiking, with a range of well-maintained routes that will take you through the city’s most beautiful natural areas. Some of the best routes to explore in Koksijde include the Condroz Route, the Coastal Route, and the Duinen Route.

Best Things to Do in Koksijde: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or adventure, Koksijde has plenty to offer. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a guided tour, which will take you through some of Koksijde’s most interesting landmarks. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or hike through the dunes. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, don’t miss the opportunity to go skydiving or kite surfing along the beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for Koksijde

For a truly immersive experience in Koksijde, consider spending a full week exploring the city and its surroundings. Here’s an example itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the Hoge Blekker nature reserve
  • Day 2: Visit the Paul Delvaux museum and the Noordzee Aquarium
  • Day 3: Bike ride along the Coastal Route
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Abbey of Ten Duinen
  • Day 5: Skydiving adventure
  • Day 6: Visit the Ter Yde nature reserve
  • Day 7: Relax on the Koksijde-Oostduinkerke beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Koksijde

Must-Try Dishes

Belgian cuisine is world-renowned, and there are some must-try dishes that you simply can’t miss during your visit to Koksijde. Start with some classic Belgian fries, and enjoy some moules-frites, which is a traditional dish of mussels and fries. For dessert, try the famous Belgian waffles and wash it all down with a local brew or a glass of Belgian chocolate milk.

Local Beverages

Belgium is famous for its beer, and Koksijde is no exception. The city has a range of local breweries that produce some of the finest beer in the country. Some of the top local breweries to visit in Koksijde include De Dolle Brouwers and De Kustbrouwerij.

Where to Stay in Koksijde: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Koksijde has plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Some of the best hotels to stay in Koksijde include the Casino Hotel, the Royal Palace, and the Hotel La Reserve. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at one of the city’s many hostels or guesthouses.

What to Buy in Koksijde: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Koksijde is complete without grabbing a few souvenirs to take home with you. Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Koksijde include handmade pottery, lacework, and Belgian chocolates.

Local Culture and Customs of Koksijde

Koksijde is a city that takes pride in its local culture and traditions. It is home to several local festivals and events throughout the year, including the Koksijde Air Show and the Folklore Festival. Visitors can also learn about local customs and traditions by visiting the city’s museums and historical landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Koksijde

The best time to visit Koksijde is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are longer. This is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Alternatively, if you want to beat the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet, consider visiting Koksijde during the shoulder seasons of May or September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Koksijde

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Learn some basic French or Dutch phrases

Don’t:

  • Litter or vandalize public areas
  • Leave your belongings unattended
  • Disrespect local customs or cultural landmarks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Koksijde

Koksijde is a relatively safe city to visit, with low rates of crime and a strong police presence. However, as with any city, visitors should take basic precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe.

Health in Koksijde

Koksijde has modern medical facilities and a range of healthcare options available to visitors. In case of an emergency, call the European emergency phone line, which is 112.

Getting to Koksijde: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Koksijde

The closest airport to Koksijde is the Oostende-Brugge International Airport, which is roughly 20 km away. Alternatively, visitors can also fly into the Brussels Airport, which is located about 150 km from Koksijde.

Bus Stations Near Koksijde

Koksijde has a well-connected bus network, with regular services to neighboring towns and cities. The city’s main bus station is located at Koksijde Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive in Koksijde by train, with regular services from Brussels and other major cities in Belgium. Alternatively, visitors can also drive to Koksijde, with easy access from the E40 motorway.

How to Get Around in Koksijde

Koksijde is a small city that is easy to navigate by bike, foot, or public transport. The city has a well-connected bus network, and visitors can also rent bikes or walk to most of the major attractions.

Where to Go Next from Koksijde: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Koksijde is conveniently located for day trips and excursions to neighboring cities and towns in Flanders. Some of the top destinations to consider include Bruges, Ghent, and Ypres.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, cultural landmarks, or simply a relaxing beach vacation, Koksijde has something to offer every kind of traveler. This comprehensive travel guide has highlighted some of the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay while you’re in Koksijde. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Koksijde today!

The seaside promenade The seaside promenade Museum of the Abbey of the Dunes Museum of the Abbey of the Dunes Horseback shrimping Horseback shrimping