Breskens Hondenstrand

Vlissingen, Netherlands

Zwanenburgstrand is Vlissingen's dedicated dog beach, located between Nollestrand and Westduin along approximately one kilometer of coastline. This is the go-to beach for dog owners in the Vlissingen area, as it remains open to dogs year-round — even during the summer ban that applies to the city's main beaches. From mid-September through April, dogs can roam freely off-leash on all Vlissingen beaches. During the summer season (May 1 - September 16), while the main Badstrand and Boulevard beaches ban dogs entirely, Zwanenburgstrand and nearby Westduinstrand remain open. Dogs must be leashed during peak daytime hours (10:00-19:00) but can run off-leash in the early morning and evening. The adjacent Nollebos forest also offers an off-leash area between Zwanenburgseweg and the bicycle path along the dunes, perfect for combining a beach visit with a forest walk. The beach has a relaxed, local atmosphere and is easily accessible from the Zwanenburg parking area.

Groede, Netherlands

Groede beach is a quieter, more natural stretch of coastline on the Zeeuws-Vlaanderen coast, part of the municipality of Sluis. This peaceful beach is an excellent choice for dog owners who prefer a less crowded environment. During the off-season from October through April, dogs can run freely off-leash all day, making it ideal for long beach walks with your four-legged friend. In summer, dogs must be leashed during peak hours (10:00-18:00) but can enjoy off-leash freedom in the early morning and evening. The beach is accessible via several dune crossings, and dog waste bags are provided at the entrance points. Strandpaviljoen Puur offers beachside refreshments and welcomes visitors with dogs. Parking is available at the Walendijk (free Mar 15-Nov 15) and at the Zeeweg. The surrounding area features beautiful dune landscapes and is popular with horse riders in winter — keep an eye out when visiting with your dog during the off-season. Groede itself is a charming village with a historic church and traditional Zeeland character.

Nieuwvliet, Netherlands

Nieuwvliet-Bad beach is a spacious, dog-friendly beach on the Zeeuws-Vlaanderen coast in the municipality of Sluis. Dogs are always welcome here, with generous off-leash time available year-round. During the off-season from October through April, dogs can roam freely all day long. In summer, a leash is required during peak hours (10:00-18:00), but early morning and evening off-leash sessions are allowed. Each dune crossing features an information panel showing the specific rules for that section of beach, making it easy to check what is permitted. The beach pavilions welcome dogs, so you can enjoy a drink or meal while your dog relaxes beside you. Nieuwvliet-Bad is particularly popular with families and dog owners due to its relaxed atmosphere and wide stretches of sand. The beach is accessed via several dune crossings including the popular 't Vingerling. Note that when walking through the nearby Zwarte Polder nature reserve to reach the beach, dogs must be kept on a leash. Parking is available at the Zeedijk with approximately 400 spaces.