Middelkerke Carlton Hondenstrand

Oostende, Belgium

Raversijde Strand is the westernmost beach section within the municipality of Oostende, stretching approximately 2.5 kilometers with a width of about 70 meters. This beach has a distinctly natural character, backed by dunes and located near the historically significant Atlantikwall Raversyde open-air museum. For dog owners, Raversijde offers a special year-round designated dog zone, though with a leash requirement. The designated dog-friendly section runs from the Westlaan at strandhoofd (groyne) 15bis to the border with Middelkerke, situated between strandhoofden 19 and 20. On this section, dogs are welcome year-round, but they must be kept on a short leash at all times. Additionally, in the nature area between the Westlaan and the Middelkerke border, dogs must also remain on a short leash to protect the sensitive dune ecosystem. On the rest of the Raversijde beach (east of strandhoofd 15bis), the standard Oostende seasonal rules apply: unrestricted access from October through March, and time-restricted access during the warmer months. The beach is quieter and more natural than central Oostende, making it appealing for dog owners who prefer peaceful walks along the waterline. The nearby Atlantikwall museum, with its 60+ bunkers and 2km of tunnels, makes an excellent complementary visit (though dogs are not allowed inside the museum). Free parking is available at the museum site.

Middelkerke, Belgium

The Louis Logierlaan Hondenstrand is a designated on-leash dog beach located between the resort centres of Middelkerke and Westende on the Belgian coast. Situated adjacent to the sports beach (sportstrand), this zone is one of three year-round dog-friendly beach areas in the municipality of Middelkerke. Dogs must be kept on a leash of maximum 10 metres within this zone. The beach sits at the guarded area near Louis Logierlaan, starting from the groyne west of the sports beach. This is a supervised swimming zone where dogs and their owners can enjoy the sea together. The monitored setting provides added safety for both swimmers and dogs, making it a popular choice for families who want to combine a beach day with their four-legged companion. Parking is available near Louis Logierlaan. Showers are provided at beach entrances in Middelkerke for rinsing off sand and salt water after a swim. The location between Middelkerke and Westende means it is somewhat quieter than the central Middelkerke beaches near the Casino SILT, while still being easily accessible from both resort centres. This beach is open to dogs year-round, including during the summer period (June 15 to September 15) when dogs are banned from all other non-designated beaches in Middelkerke. Dog owners must always carry waste bags of at least 20 by 30 centimetres and clean up immediately after their pet. The 10-metre leash limit gives dogs room to explore the sand and water while keeping them under control near other beachgoers.

Oostende, Belgium

Mariakerke Strand is a quieter, family-oriented beach located southwest of central Oostende, stretching approximately 2.4 kilometers with a width of about 90 meters. Named after the Mariakerke district, this beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling Groot Strand in the city center, while still providing good access to amenities in the adjacent residential area. Dogs follow the standard Oostende seasonal rules on Mariakerke Strand: from October through March, they enjoy unrestricted access at any time of day. During the transitional months of April, May, June, and September, dogs are welcome before 10:00 and after 18:30. In July and August, the permitted hours are before 10:00 and after 20:00. During allowed times, dogs can be off-leash on this beach (unlike the neighboring Sportstrand which requires a leash). The beach is backed by a pleasant dijk (sea wall promenade) with apartment buildings and local shops. It is quieter than central Oostende, making it appealing for dog owners who prefer a less crowded environment. The Mariakerke dune area nearby offers additional walking opportunities with your dog. Parking is available along the streets of the Mariakerke district. The Coastal Tram (Kusttram) runs along the promenade, providing easy public transport access with stops at Mariakerke.