Aug
Enjoy a vast beach along the Belgian North Sea coast, a walk through the untouched dune area, a cozy town center full of historic charm, and delightful restaurants where you can savor the local cuisine. That’s De Panne in a nutshell! In this blog post, I will guide you through the best things to do in De Panne so that you can plan an unforgettable vacation in this beautiful coastal town.
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De Panne, the Southernmost Seaside Resort of Belgium
If you’re looking for a versatile holiday destination, De Panne, the southernmost seaside resort of Belgium, is the perfect choice. Located near the French border, De Panne offers not only a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure but also an ideal base to explore the surrounding towns, such as Veurne, Koksijde, and Nieuwpoort.
De Panne has everything you need for an unforgettable time. Think of wide sandy beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, or take long walks. The expansive dunes invite you to explore them on foot or by bike and offer a beautiful setting for nature lovers.
Are you more interested in history and culture? Then you definitely shouldn’t miss a stroll through the charming Dumont Quarter, with its characteristic villas and historic architecture. For some action and adventure, there are plenty of recreational options, such as kitesurfing, land sailing, or horseback riding along the coastline.
And if you’re traveling with children, a visit to Plopsaland and Plopsaqua is an absolute must. Here, young and old alike are guaranteed fun in the theme park and swimming pools.
In short, in De Panne and the surrounding region, you’ll never have a dull moment, whether you come for relaxation, nature, culture, or adventure.
How to travel to De Panne?
There are several ways to travel to De Panne, depending on where you’re coming from and your preferences. If you’re traveling from Belgium or one of the neighboring countries, the car is a convenient option. De Panne is close to the E40 motorway, and you can easily reach it via the Adinkerke exit. However, keep in mind that parking in De Panne is paid, with different color zones and regulations. Be sure to read the parking policy carefully to avoid fines.
You can also easily reach De Panne by train, thanks to the station in Adinkerke. From here, you can transfer to the coastal tram, which not only takes you to the center of De Panne but also along the entire Belgian coast, with stops at popular spots such as Plopsaland and various natural areas.
For those coming from further away and traveling by plane, the nearest airports are in Ostend and Brussels. From there, you can easily reach De Panne by public transport or a rental car.
Whichever travel option you choose, De Panne is always within reach!
How to Get Around in De Panne?
Getting around in De Panne is easy and can be done in several ways. The town center is cozy, and everything is within walking distance, so you can reach most of the sights just on foot.
But if you want to explore more, such as the other seaside towns along the coast, the coastal tram is your best friend. With no fewer than seven stops in De Panne, including Plopsaland, Sint-Pieterskerk, and the station, this longest tram line in the world takes you everywhere you want to go. Plus, you can enjoy beautiful views of the North Sea along the way. The coastal tram runs all year round, with a tram every 10 to 20 minutes in the summer and every 30 minutes in the winter. You can bring your bike, stroller, or dog (on a leash), but keep in mind that space is limited during busy periods. Tickets are easily available at the tram stops, in the Lijn shops, or via the app. A day pass is an excellent choice if you plan to visit multiple stops.
For the more active among us, the bicycle is an excellent option. You can rent bikes at Arizona and explore the area at your own pace.
Whether you choose the tram, the bicycle, or just enjoy walking, De Panne offers something for everyone to get around in a relaxed and fun way.
The best time to travel to De Panne?
The best time to visit De Panne depends entirely on what you’re looking for. If you enjoy sunny beach days and a lively atmosphere, the summer months from June to August are perfect. You can fully enjoy the beach, outdoor activities, and fun events along the beach or in the town center.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds but still enjoy mild weather, consider visiting in the spring or fall, from April to June or September to October. It’s quieter and often more affordable in terms of accommodations.
Are you a nature lover interested in bird watching? The fall and winter months, from October to March, are ideal for spotting migratory birds along the coast. The weather can vary, so always check the forecast before you leave. Even when it snows, it’s particularly magical to see the beach covered in a layer of snow.
But regardless of the season, De Panne offers a beautiful setting and plenty to do all year round!
Where to stay in De Panne?
Staying in De Panne offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to cozy bed & breakfasts and charming holiday homes. For a truly unique experience, you can choose my own holiday home, Maison Botanique, located in the historic Dumont Quarter. This stylish accommodation for up to four people is just 200 meters from the beautiful North Sea beach and the lively town center.
At Maison Botanique, you experience the best of both worlds: a peaceful oasis with an authentic, tastefully decorated interior and a contemporary botanical touch, combined with the vibrant atmosphere of De Panne, with all its restaurants, shops, and activities. Whether you’re here to relax or to enjoy everything De Panne has to offer, Maison Botanique guarantees a special stay.
Are you looking for something else? Check out the handy map widget below to quickly get an overview of all accommodations and their locations. This way, you can specifically search for a place to stay exactly where you want it.
The best things to do in De Panne
Enjoy the widest beach in Belgium
The beach of De Panne is no ordinary beach! With an impressive width of 425 meters at low tide, it is the widest in Belgium. Here, you can enjoy vast stretches of sand, perfect for sunbathing, playing, or taking long walks. What makes this beach special is the absence of breakwaters, allowing you to go beach sailing, surfing, or kite surfing while looking out over the waves.
De Panne’s versatility makes it truly unique. Close to the town center, where the beach borders the promenade, it buzzes with energy, with colorful beach cabins and a lively atmosphere full of water sports and summer activities. Here, you’ll also find plenty of cozy beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy cocktails and delicious food.
Unfortunately, the original cottages along the promenade have given way to high-rise buildings, as in all Belgian coastal cities. Luckily, hidden gems can still be found among the apartment blocks, giving you a glimpse of what De Panne once looked like.
My favorite spot on the beach is toward the French border, where the promenade gives way to quiet dunes, and you can admire the Westerpunt. Here, you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for watching a beautiful sunset, perhaps with a glass of wine in hand.
Explore the heritage of De Panne with a visit to the historic Dumont Quarter
The Dumont Quarter in De Panne is a true hidden gem, full of charm and history. Named after the visionary architect Albert Dumont, this neighborhood owes its unique character to his creative urban planning. As you walk through the winding streets, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful Belle Époque houses that still exude the allure of the 19th century. It’s like stepping back in time while enjoying the elegant architecture.
Once, this area was an exclusive hunting ground for the nobility, with dunes owned by abbeys and the Count of Flanders. But after the French Revolution, a new chapter began. The first charming cottage-style villas made their appearance, giving the neighborhood its unique character, with narrow, winding streets meandering through the dunes. It’s the perfect place to get pleasantly lost and be surprised by the historic houses and beautiful gardens.
For the best view over the Dumont Quarter, head to the top of the Kykhill. This is the highest dune in De Panne. In the past, fishermen’s wives would stand here, waiting to see their husbands return home. In summer, this dune transforms into a magical field full of poppies.
A heritage walk through the Dumont Quarter is a great way to discover the unique atmosphere and rich past of this special neighborhood. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour to learn more about the history of this beautiful area.
Discover art in De Panne
Did you know that De Panne, besides its beautiful nature, also hosts numerous impressive artworks? A fun way to discover them is by following the monument route, which takes you past all the notable monuments in De Panne and Adinkerke. With the heritage app, it’s very easy: scan the QR code, and your adventure begins.
The most famous monuments
One of the most famous monuments is the stately statue of Leopold I on the Esplanade. Here, Belgium’s first king set foot on land for the first time on July 17, 1831. This impressive bronze statue, created by artist René Cliquet, stands within a monumental triumphal arch designed by architect Victor Martiny.
Another notable figure is Pier Kloeffe, immortalized in the dunes. This fisherman, born as Petrus Decreton in 1853, is the symbol of the fishing community in De Panne. His statue, crafted by his friend and painter Louis Van den Eynde, commemorates his adventures and the life he led on the coast.
Permanent Beaufort sculpture park
After seven editions of the Triennial by the Sea, several artworks remain on permanent display. National and international artists were given a fixed spot along the coast, leading to the creation of the Beaufort Sculpture Park. This park now features over 40 impressive artworks. Here are some gems you can admire in De Panne and Adinkerke, which you will also encounter on the heritage route.
In front of the town hall stands the concrete artwork “Boundaries of Infinity” by Maltese artist Norbert Francis Attard, inspired by the Fibonacci sequence. In the dunes, “Christophorus,” an imposing giant made of pine wood by Gerhard Lentink, has been watching over the landscape since 2003.
The “Three Wise Men” by Jos De Gruyter and Harald Thys stand proudly above the coastline and have become a symbol of De Panne. At the Markey ponds in Adinkerke, a life-size bronze red deer by Stief DeSmet is on display.
On the beach, you can enjoy a giant octopus by Laure Prouvost, specially made for Beaufort21. Additionally, American artist Matt Mullican was inspired by the iconic coastal tram and the 67-kilometer tram line, resulting in a unique artwork that you certainly don’t want to miss.
So, be sure to explore and be surprised by the art that De Panne has to offer!
Admire the view from the Westerpunt lookout
One of my absolute favorite spots in De Panne is, without a doubt, the Westerpunt, completed in 2024. At the end of the concrete promenade towards France, an architectural gem awaits you. The geometric staircase leads you upwards, allowing you to tower above the beach and enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the sea and dunes.
What makes this place so special is how the robust concrete blends seamlessly into the landscape, perfectly matching the beach and dunes. At high tide, the sea reaches right up to the monument, while at low tide, you can admire the expansive beach of De Panne. Each moment has its own charm. With its geometric shapes in nature, it is also a photogenic spot that invites you to capture the beauty of the coast.
It’s a place that leaves you speechless, where you can truly feel the splendor of the coast. If you are in De Panne, you must not miss this. It’s an experience that will stay with you!
Visit one of the many Museums
In De Panne, you can visit several fascinating museums, each offering a unique perspective on the rich history and culture of the region. Here are some highlights you definitely don’t want to miss:
Provincial Visitor Center Duinpanne
There is plenty to experience at the Provincial Visitor Center Duipanne! You will find not only information about the best activities in the area, such as cycling and walking, but you can also enjoy captivating exhibitions, both temporary and permanent. One of the highlights is the interactive exhibition “Sea Change,” where you can discover everything about the unique ecosystem of the region in a fun and educational way.
From the cozy terrace, you have a beautiful view over the Oosthoek dunes, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a local beer, the Duneleute.
The visitor center is open during school holidays, every day from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and outside the holidays on Saturdays and Sundays at the same times. Please note: the center is closed on Mondays and public holidays. Come and discover the charm of Duinpanne!
Cultural House De Scharbiellie
Cultural House De Scharbiellie is the place to enjoy various art exhibitions. The house opens its doors during temporary exhibitions and school holidays daily from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Outside these periods, it is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, but it is also closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Museum Cabour WWII & 2/4 Lancers
At the Museum Cabour WWII & 2/4 Lancers, you dive into the fascinating history of World War II and the 2nd and 4th Lancers Regiment. This museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM from April to October. During the school holidays, you can visit it at the same times from Tuesday to Sunday. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Water Extraction Museum
The Water Extraction Museum takes you to the old pumping station in the Cabour Dunes. This museum is located on the same domain as the Museum Cabour WWII & 2/4 Lancers and therefore follows the same opening hours. The Cabour domain is the cradle of water extraction by the IWVA. In the museum, you can admire various pieces of old equipment and take a look at the old pumping station.
Nostalgic Media Museum
For a nostalgic journey through time, the Nostalgic Media Museum is the place to be. Here, you can admire a collection of old radios, gramophones, and televisions. The museum is open every last Saturday of the month from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Retro House De Viswinkel
At Retro House De Viswinkel, you step into De Panne’s fishing past. It is open every Friday from mid-March to the end of October from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and every third Tuesday of the month at the same times. In the winter months, from November to mid-March, it is only open by appointment.
Plot Historic Trams
Lastly, at the Historic Tram Depot, you can take a ride on the “Tram des Tijds” and admire restored trams. This museum is open during the summer months every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on special days such as July 21 and August 15 from 10:00 AM.
Take a day trip to Plopsaland
A day at Plopsaland or Plopsaqua in De Panne is an adventure you definitely don’t want to miss! Plopsaland is a theme park for all ages, where everyone can immerse themselves in the magic of the Studio 100 world. At the entrance, you are immediately welcomed by a colorful sign featuring cheerful characters like Samson & Gert, Kabouter Plop, Mega Mindy, and K3. As soon as you step inside, it feels like you have walked straight into your favorite TV shows. For the youngest visitors, there are gentle attractions, such as a ride on Kabouter Plop’s dragon or a journey with Bumba through the enchanted forest. For older children and adults, there are thrilling attractions like the lightning-fast Anubis The Ride and the breathtaking Time Traveler. You can also enjoy enchanting shows where the beloved characters come to life, creating unforgettable moments.
If water fun is more your thing, then Plopsaqua is the perfect place. Here, you can enjoy a variety of exciting slides, a delightful wave pool, and even relaxing saunas and jacuzzis. For the youngest visitors, there are special children’s attractions and interactive water games that provide hours of fun. Plopsaqua offers something for everyone, from adventure to pure relaxation.
Whether you choose Plopsaland , Plopsaqua, or a combination of both, you are guaranteed a day full of fun and unforgettable experiences for both young and old!
Shopping in De Panne
Shopping in De Panne is a delightful experience that you won’t want to miss. Start your day on the Zeelaan, the bustling shopping street where you can stroll along a mix of chic boutiques, cozy shops, supermarkets, and great dining spots. There’s something for everyone here. And the best part? The shops are also open on Sundays, which is very convenient if you’re just visiting for the weekend.
On Saturday mornings, De Panne really comes to life with the weekly market. It’s a colorful and lively place where you’ll find everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to local specialties, fashion, and flowers. The market is not only a great place to discover unique products but also to soak up the warm atmosphere of De Panne and connect with the locals.
In short, De Panne offers a perfect mix of shopping and enjoyment. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets or exploring the market, you’re sure to enjoy the versatile shopping experience and the delightful local flavors this coastal town has to offer.
Explore the outdoors!
As a nature lover, you will be in your element in De Panne, as this Belgian coastal town is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful nature reserves.
One of the absolute highlights is the De Westhoek Nature Reserve, the largest dune complex in Belgium, which stretches over 340 hectares and seamlessly connects to the French dunes of Le Perroquet. Here, you can walk through vast sand dunes, admire unique flora and fauna, and see the “wandering” dunes that constantly shape the landscape.
The Calmeynbos offers an oasis of tranquility with its beautiful dune forest, ideal for walks, bike rides, and horse riding. In spring, you can also spot the famous purple bluebells here. This forest borders the Oosthoek dunes, another important nature area that, together with the forest, is managed as a Flemish Nature Reserve.
The Houtsaeger Dunes, which serve as a green lung between De Panne and St. Idesbald, offer a unique dry dune landscape and connect to the historic Kerkepannebos, one of the oldest forest areas on the coast.
Additionally, in De Panne, you’ll find the Zwarte Hoek Nature Reserve, a smaller but ecologically valuable area. The Domain Cabour & Garzebekeveld are also worth a visit. Here, nature and history come together in old dunes and relics from World War I. The latter can only be visited during a guided walk, where you will learn more about the war’s past and visit the Museum Cabour WWII & 2/4 Lancers. Nearby, you’ll find another hidden gem, the Markey ponds. This is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the seaside promenade and unwind completely. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the water or settle down for a romantic picnic at one of the idyllic spots.
Hiking in De Panne
In each of these beautiful natural areas, you can enjoy the most beautiful walks, either independently or with a guide. If you plan to go on a discovery tour, I recommend checking out De Panne’s walking calendar. There are plenty of organized walks that are well worth it. Of course, I’m also happy to share my favorite walking routes with you.
Westhoek walking route
The Westhoek walking route is a must-do walk in De Panne. This 10.5 km loop route starts at the Provincial Visitor Center Duinpanne and takes you directly through the beautiful Calmeynbos, an enchanting dune forest of 55 hectares that has retained its charm since the early 20th century.
After the tranquility of the forest, you walk through a quiet residential area and soon reach the beach, where you walk along the coastline towards the impressive De Westhoek Nature Reserve. Here, the landscape constantly changes: from rolling dune ridges to dense shrubs, vast grasslands, and shady forests. Sometimes it feels like you’re walking through a desert. The best part is that it offers a different view each season. You will be surprised by the natural beauty here every time. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a Scottish Highland cow or a wild Konik horse. In short, an unforgettable experience!
The return journey takes you through the serene water extraction area, after which you return to the visitor center via the Calmeynbos. This walk is a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation, allowing you to experience the versatility of De Panne at its best.
Walk to France
A highly recommended walk is from De Panne to France, a beautiful 5 km route that takes you to the charming seaside town of Bray-Dunes on the French Opal Coast. As you walk along the quiet beach, you can enjoy spotting seabirds or searching for unique shells. To your left, the foredunes of the Westhoek Reserve stretch out, while to your right, the endless sea keeps you company. Along the way, you’ll also pass the beautiful Westerpunt.
Once in Bray-Dunes, you can extend your walk further to the beach of Zuydcoote. At low tide, you can admire several impressive shipwrecks that were destroyed during the Battle of Dunkirk in 1940 and have remained on the beach as memorials. On the way back, the De Westhoek Nature Reserve offers you a beautiful, varied route back to De Panne, where you can enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of the region even more.
Cycling in and around De Panne
Besides hiking, there are also beautiful cycling routes to discover in De Panne. Whether you fancy a relaxing ride along the coast, an exploration of the quiet hinterland, or an adventurous mountain bike ride through the woods—there’s something for everyone.
On the Visit West-Flanders website, you’ll find a handy overview of all available cycling routes. Here you can also download the GPX files or PDFs of the routes to prepare for your trip perfectly.
Don’t have a bike with you during your holiday in De Panne? No worries! At Arizona, you can easily rent a bike.
Of course, I’m also happy to share my favorite cycling routes with you, so you can make the most of your time in De Panne!
De Moeren cycle Route
This 55.8 km route starts at the Adinkerke-De Panne train station square and takes you through the unique, marshy landscape of De Moeren. While cycling, you can enjoy quiet country roads, canals, and picturesque villages, with plenty of opportunities along the way to enjoy the scenery and nature. You’ll also pass through Veurne, where you can take a break and enjoy a delicious local beer on the Grote Markt.
De Panne, Koksijde, Veurne, and Alveringem Route
Starting at the Visitor Center Duinpanne, this 51.9 km loop offers a beautiful mix of coastal and polder landscapes and takes you through the charming areas of Veurne, Koksijde, and Alveringem. Along the way, you’ll pass local producers where you can taste regional products, and there are plenty of picnic spots to take a break and enjoy the surroundings.
West Coast cycle route
This 48 km route starts at Canadezenplein in De Panne and takes you along the dunes, through nature reserves, and along the IJzermonding. You cycle through the charming towns of Koksijde, Nieuwpoort, and Veurne, and along the way, you can visit museums, visitor centers, and lookout towers.
Cycling to France
From De Panne, you cycle via Adinkerke to junction 29 on the French border. Then, follow the “Velomaritime,” a safe cycle path that takes you along the coast to Bray-Dunes, Zuydcoote, and finally Dunkirk. This route offers a beautiful mix of coastal scenery and French charm.
Must-Try specialties in De Panne
When visiting De Panne, Meli products are an absolute must-try! These iconic local products, such as honey and chocolate spread, are made with the highest quality Meli honey as a base. Meli honey not only has a delicious taste but also a rich history that goes back nearly 100 years, with a passion for flavor and quality that is still very much alive today. Did you know that Meli once also had the very first theme park in Europe? The famous Meli Park (now Plopsaland) was a beloved destination for young and old for many years.
Besides the delicious Meli products, you should not miss the local specialties. For example, try the “kerremelksmeus” with shrimp, a traditional potato dish that was once popular among fishermen. Or treat yourself to a steaming pot of mussels from the North Sea—a true culinary experience.
Are you a beer lover? Then you have plenty of options in De Panne. Try the Gouden Pier Kloeffe, an artisanal beer named after the famous fisherman Pier Kloeffe. Or enjoy a refreshing Panneschum, a blond beer originally brewed for the Leopold festivities. For those who enjoy dark beer, Pannepot is highly recommended. If you want to try something unique, Duneleute, brewed with vitamin C-rich sea buckthorn berries, offers a true taste experience.
If you prefer something stronger, try the Pier Kloeffe jenever or the typical regional Picon, made from fresh orange peels.
Delicious dining in De Panne
Eating in De Panne is a real treat for your taste buds! Start your day with a delightful breakfast or brunch at Armelot or Coco bar & food , where the atmosphere is so cozy that you might want to stay there all morning. For the best waffles on the coast, Hotel aan Zee is the place to be. If you’re in the mood for a refreshing ice cream, Crèmerie Georges on the promenade is the place to go. Truly the best ice cream you’ll ever taste!
For an evening out with spectacular cocktails, Oasis and Shakerz are the hotspots. At Oasis, you can enjoy a wonderfully themed interior, while Shakerz charms you with its cheerful pink vibes. Along the promenade, you will also find cozy beach bars like Albert I and Baccara, perfect for enjoying a cocktail with your feet in the sand at sunset.
Petit Comité is a hidden gem where you can enjoy small, refined dishes to share in an intimate setting. It feels like a culinary journey of discovery. For a dose of Belgian conviviality and classics, head to De Witte Berg. Here, you can taste the best fish dishes and stews while enjoying a stunning view of the North Sea beach.
If you’re looking for something more elegant, Imperial is a must-visit, offering modern dishes made with the best local ingredients. And for those who love an informal, cozy atmosphere, De Sloepe is highly recommended. Don’t miss La Coupole either, where you can enjoy a wonderful dinner with friends or family in a stylish setting. For a delicious meal in a cozy garden, visit the Parkhotel, located in the charming Dumont district.
In short, in De Panne, you will always find something delicious for every taste and occasion!
De Panne is not only a beautiful coastal town but also a versatile one that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, culture, or an active adventure. With its beautiful beaches, rich nature, historical monuments, and vibrant atmosphere, there is always something new to discover. I hope this guide to the best sights in De Panne, along with the many practical tips, will help you make the most of your vacation. Whether you come for the tranquility, the action, or just to enjoy the charm of this unique place, De Panne will surely surprise and enchant you.
Which things to do in De Panne are on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below.
Read more about Belgium?
- Top things to do in Veurne: uncover the pearl of Flanders Fields
- How to plan the perfect weekend in Brussels
- The most photogenic places in Ghent
- The perfect day trip to Bruges
- Fun things to do in Damme
- 7 lesser know places for a unique staycation in Belgium
- The best things to do in Namur
Thanks for reading.
Yours truly,
Sarah
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