August 2026 Blankenberge @ the belgian coast
Between the ages of one and seven, Egbert spent every July and August at the Belgian coast, more specifically in the seaside town of Blankenberge. And even today, whenever we decide to head for the Flemish coast, Blankenberge is still Egbert’s number one choice.
In August 2026, we rented an apartment on the seafront for two weeks, enjoying uninterrupted views of the sea. The first week treated us to glorious high summer: sunshine from morning till evening and temperatures hovering around 30°C. The second week, however, brought a change in the weather, with wind and rain showing summer from its less charming side.
During our stay, our grandchildren came to visit for a week. The days we had to ourselves were mostly spent at Belgium’s only official nude beach, in nearby Bredene.
Not far from Blankenberge lies the charming seaside resort of Wenduine. By chance, we discovered that the “Retro Sur Mer” event was taking place during our stay — so, of course, we decided to go and have a look.
Naturism is unfortunately not allowed on the beach in Blankenberge.
Topless sunbathing, on the other hand, is permitted along the entire Belgian coast.
Yet, in recent years, women going “oben ohne” have become increasingly rare. False modesty, a new wave of prudishness, smartphones discreetly taking pictures… who knows?
As far as we’re concerned, it’s a rather sad trend — and one that Else is quite happy to ignore.
Naturism, however, is possible in Bredene, home to Belgium’s only official nude beach. Together with a few naturist beaches in the Dutch province of Zeeland, it is one of our favourite places to spend a sunny summer day.
