Things to do in Zwin Nature Park
Discover the best attractions and experiences Zwin Nature Park has to offer
Historic Monuments
From Napoleonic forts to coastal relics, discover enduring structures around Het Zwin and the coast.
Fort Napoleon (Oostende)
A Napoleonic fortress offering museum exhibits and panoramic sea views.
Atlantic Wall fortifications (Belgian coast)
Remnants of WWII coastal defenses along the shoreline near Knokke-Heist.
Mercator statue (Oostende)
Iconic statue honoring the famed cartographer at Oostende's harbor.
Museums
Explore maritime heritage and wartime history in the coastal towns.
Sincfala, Museum of the Sea (Knokke-Heist)
Exhibits about the North Sea, ships, and local seafaring life.
For Freedom Museum (Koksijde)
A large collection of WWII vehicles and stories of liberation.
Sea Life Blankenberge
Interactive aquarium featuring marine life from the Belgian coast.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and sacred sites along the coast.
Sint-Petrus-en-Pauluskerk, Oostende
Imposing parish church with a distinctive tower by the harbor.
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-ter-Duinenkerk, Koksijde
Coastal church serving the dune region with scenic surroundings.
National & Theme Parks
Protected natural areas offering birdlife, dunes, and marshes.
Het Zwin Natuur Park
Coastal nature reserve with bird hides, wetlands, and walking trails.
Plopsaland De Panne
Family-friendly theme park with rides and shows near the coast.
Neighborhoods
Characterful districts along the coast with beaches and shops.
Knokke
Upscale seaside town with beaches, shops, and eateries.
Zoute (Knokke-Zoute)
Exclusive district famed for boutiques and seaside scenery.
Duinbergen
Relaxed coastal suburb with dune scenery and beach access.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy nature and coastal scenery without spending a euro.
Walk along Het Zwin wetlands
Boardwalks where you can spot birds and marsh flora.
Beach strolls on the Knokke-Heist coast
Long sandy beaches ideal for a free scenic walk.
Dune hikes through the nature reserve
Explore picturesque dunes on marked paths.
Gastronomy
Savor seafood, waffles, and Belgian flavors from the coast.
Fresh seafood at Knokke-Heist harbour eateries
Mussels, shrimp and North Sea fish prepared locally.
Belgian waffles from a local patisserie
Classic sweet treat after a beach day.
Local Belgian beer at a seaside café
Relax with regional brews and ocean views.
Nightlife
Evenings in coastal towns with bars, lounges, and live music.
Zeedijk promenade bars (Knokke)
Casual spots along the seafront for sunset drinks.
Beach clubs and late-night venues in Knokke
Seasonal outdoor venues with music and dancing.
Entertainment
Shows, performances and family-friendly experiences.
Cinema and live events in Knokke
Local cinema screenings and occasional performances.
For Freedom Museum events (Koksijde)
Historical re-enactments and educational programs.
Sports
Outdoor sports on the coast and dunes.
Golf at Royal Zoute Golf Club
Play a round at a prestigious coastal course.
Kite surfing and windsurfing along the coast
Catch the wind on the beaches near Knokke.
Cycling along the coastal bike paths
Easy to challenging routes through dunes and towns.
Off the Track
Unconventional experiences away from the main sights.
Boat trip to see birds at Het Zwin
Guided or self-guided birdwatching from the water.
Mudflat walks at low tide
Explore tidal flats with a local naturalist.