Things To Do
in Nieuwpoort

Nieuwpoort is a charming coastal town located in Belgium, known for its picturesque marina and beautiful sandy beaches. The town boasts a rich history, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages, evident in its well-preserved architecture. Nieuwpoort is also a hub for water sports, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the coastline and delve into the local culture through various events and festivals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Nieuwpoort
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Nieuwpoort Marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and watch the boats. Then, head to the nearby beach for a refreshing morning walk along the shoreline.

afternoon
:

Visit the King Albert I Memorial, a historical monument dedicated to King Albert I, followed by lunch at a local bistro. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the quaint shops in the town center.

evening
:

Dine at a seafood restaurant along the beach and then take a relaxed walk to enjoy the sunset over the North Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Museum of the Great War, which offers insight into the impact of World War I on the region. Afterward, enjoy a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon cycling along the coastal paths or taking a boat trip on the river. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the nature reserve.

evening
:

Explore the local nightlife by visiting a bar featuring live music or enjoy a quiet evening at a wine bar sampling Belgian wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich historical heritage.
  • Variety of outdoor activities available.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak summer months.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in the off-season.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
  • "Waar is de badkamer?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Nieuwpoort

Visit one of these nice places.

Nieuwpoort Marina

Capture stunning views of the boats and the sunset over the water.

King Albert I Memorial

A historic monument set against a beautiful backdrop, perfect for architectural photography.

The Beachfront Promenade

Ideal for capturing the lively beach atmosphere and scenic coastal landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nieuwpoort

Nieuwpoort offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the best of Belgian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood due to its coastal location.

Nieuwpoort Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Waterzooi

A traditional Belgian stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and cream.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Steamed mussels served with crispy fries, a classic Belgian favorite.

Speculoos

Spiced shortcrust biscuits that are a popular Belgian treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nieuwpoort Market

A vibrant market held every Wednesday, offering fresh local produce, seafood, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nieuwpoort experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in autumn and winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal.

Language

While many speak English, making an effort to use basic Dutch phrases is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nieuwpoort is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Nieuwpoort

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect warm weather and bustling beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds, ideal for peaceful walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring a quiet charm, with fewer tourists and opportunities for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Nieuwpoort at Night

Nieuwpoort has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily centered around its beach bars and restaurants. Many venues offer live music, particularly during the summer months, creating a lively atmosphere. Beachfront bars are popular for enjoying cocktails with a view of the sunset, while local pubs provide a cozy spot to mingle with residents and travelers alike.

Hiking in Nieuwpoort

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Westhoek Nature Reserve

A beautiful natural area with well-marked trails, perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife.

Dunes of Oostende

A scenic hiking trail that takes you through coastal dunes, offering stunning views of the North Sea.

Airports

How to reach Nieuwpoort by plane.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Nieuwpoort, this airport offers flights to various European destinations and serves as the primary airport for the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nieuwpoort is highly walkable, particularly around the marina and town center. The compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, with pedestrian-friendly paths along the beach and through the town. Most attractions are within a short walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to navigate without needing a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists primarily of Belgian locals, many of whom work in tourism, fishing, and agriculture.

Tourists

During peak season, the town sees a significant influx of tourists from Belgium and neighboring countries, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Belgium, with local clubs and community matches frequently taking place.

Water Sports

Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are very popular among locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nieuwpoort is generally light, particularly outside of the summer tourist season. The town is well-connected by roads, making it easy to reach by car. Public transportation options include buses that connect Nieuwpoort to nearby towns and cities, though services may be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nieuwpoort.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to ask about the ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to inform them in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nieuwpoort is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and pharmacies are scattered throughout the town. EU citizens are advised to carry their European Health Insurance Card for access to medical services.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide