Things To Do
in Mariakerke
Mariakerke is a coastal residential district just west of Ostend in West Flanders, Belgium, known for its long sandy beach, dunes and relaxed village atmosphere. It serves as a quieter seaside alternative to central Ostend while still offering easy access to the city's museums, restaurants and transport links. The neighbourhood blends family-friendly promenades, a small local centre with cafes and bakeries, and access to protected dune landscapes and coastal trails.
Visitors appreciate Mariakerke for low-key seaside vibes, straightforward walking and cycling routes, and proximity to the North Sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the beautiful beachfront of Mariakerke. The sound of the waves and the salty air will rejuvenate your spirit as you take in the panoramic views of the North Sea. Stop by a local café to enjoy a fresh Danish pastry and a cup of coffee.
After lunch, rent a bicycle and explore the seaside promenade, which stretches beautifully along the coast. Visit the nearby shops and boutiques, where you can find unique local goods and souvenirs. As the sun begins to set, find a quiet spot on the beach to relax and unwind.
As twilight falls, indulge in a seafood dinner at one of the oceanfront restaurants, savoring the catch of the day while listening to the gentle crash of the waves. Consider taking a after dinner stroll along the beach, feeling the cool breeze and reflecting on the day's adventures. Capture the moment with snapshots of the stunning sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Venture to the nearby city of Ostend and start your day with a visit to the Mu.ZEE museum, showcasing modern and contemporary art. Discover various exhibitions and engage with inspiring installations that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Belgium. Grab a hearty breakfast at a café in Ostend that features local specialties.
Spend your afternoon enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Ostend marketplace, where local vendors offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delightful treats. Don't miss out on trying the famous Ostend grey shrimp, a local delicacy. Afterward, relax at the Oosteroever with stunning views of the harbor.
In the evening, enjoy a classical music concert at the renowned Kursaal Oostende, an iconic concert hall by the sea. The combination of beautiful performances and the stylish decor of the venue will create an unforgettable atmosphere. Conclude your night with a nightcap at a nearby wine bar, soaking in the evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Beer (pub) | $4-6 |
| 🚍Local bus/tram single ticket | $2.50-3.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, family-friendly seaside atmosphere close to Ostend
- Easy access to dunes, beaches and coastal cycling routes
- Good seafood and coastal culinary traditions
- Flat, walkable terrain and bike-friendly infrastructure
- Can be windy and changeable weather year-round
- Limited nightlife and fewer amenities within Mariakerke itself compared with larger cities
- Busy roads and parking pressure in peak summer season
- Some services and shops close earlier outside tourist season
- "Hallo / Goedemorgen" - Hello / Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u (wel)" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het strand?" - Where is the beach?
Places to Visit in Mariakerke
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy beach with dunes, ideal for sunrise/sunset seascapes, wide horizons and minimalist coastal compositions.
Wild dunes, historic WWII bunkers and winding paths provide dramatic textures and historical interest for landscape photography.
The Mercator training ship and the seawall offer maritime subjects, reflections and wide-angle shots of the coast and harbor activity.
Quieter residential streets, local architecture and the parish church present intimate, human-scale scenes and seasonal street life.
Food in Mariakerke
Mariakerke Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Belgian classic: steamed local mussels served with fries. Widely available in Ostend brasseries and seaside restaurants, especially in summer.
Must-Try!
Crispy croquettes filled with creamy North Sea grey shrimp—find them in seafood restaurants and some delis around Mariakerke and Ostend.
Beef stewed in Belgian beer, served with fries or bread; a warming Flemish comfort dish on cooler days and easy to find at traditional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily markets in Ostend offer fresh fish, local cheeses, bread and pastries—perfect for assembling a seaside picnic or sampling regional items.
Seasonal stalls and beach clubs near Mariakerke serve snacks, ice cream, Belgian waffles and frites—ideal for casual seaside eating.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language—polite greetings in Dutch are appreciated. People near the coast often speak good English; a few words in Dutch go a long way.
Belgians value orderly queues and polite behaviour—keep to the right on sidewalks when cyclists or cyclists' lanes are present and say 'thank you' (dank u) after service.
Stay on marked dune paths, respect wildlife areas and follow local signage—dunes are protected and sensitive to disturbance.
Safety
Tipping in Mariakerke
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in the bill in Belgium, but it’s customary to round up small amounts or leave 5–10% for exceptional service. For taxis and small café bills, rounding to the nearest euro is common.
Contactless cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; Bancontact is a commonly used local debit system. Cash (euros) is still useful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, budding dunes and fewer crowds—ideal for cycling and walking. Weather can be changeable; bring layers and a light waterproof jacket.
Warmest and busiest season with beach life, cafes and summer events; expect higher prices and busier roads/parking. Bring sun protection and book beachfront restaurants in advance at peak times.
Crisp, windy days with dramatic skies—great for storm-watching and photography. Many tourist services scale back, but local restaurants remain open and the coast is peaceful.
Cool, windy and wet but generally mild compared to inland; off-season calm and lower prices. Dress warmly for the wind, and be mindful of shorter daylight hours.
Mariakerke at Night
Hiking in Mariakerke
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short loops through protected dunes and along historic bunkers—good for birdwatching and coastal views; easy to reach from Mariakerke.
Long-distance coastal trail along the Belgian North Sea coast; hike sections east or west from Mariakerke for varying distances and scenery.
Flat, paved walk connecting Mariakerke with Ostend’s harbour and beaches—ideal for relaxed strolls and photography.
Further inland options for woodland and heathland hikes—accessible by car or public transport for a day excursion from the coast.
Airports
How to reach Mariakerke by plane.
Small regional airport about 10–20 minutes by car from Mariakerke; limited scheduled flights and seasonal charters. Good for regional connections and short transfers.
Belgium's main international airport, around 1.5–2 hours by car or train from Mariakerke. Frequent international flights and good rail connections via Ostend and Bruges.
Budget carrier hub located around 1.5–2 hours away by car; often used by low-cost airlines with bus or shuttle options to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term residents who live and work in the Ostend area; family-oriented community with local schools and services.
Older residents attracted by the calm seaside environment, especially in residential parts of Mariakerke.
Day-trippers and holidaymakers from Belgium, the Netherlands and neighbouring countries in summer months.
People working in Ostend or nearby towns who prefer living in quieter coastal neighbourhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played locally, with community clubs and youth teams in the region.
Both recreational and competitive cycling are very popular; many visitors use the extensive coastal bike network.
The coast’s wind and waves attract kiteboarders, windsurfers and sailing enthusiasts, with rental and lesson options available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mariakerke.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly common—many restaurants offer salads, vegetable mains and cheese plates. Markets and bakeries provide good meat-free choices; always check menus or ask staff for daily vegetarian dishes.
Vegan choices exist but are more limited than in larger Belgian cities. Look for cafes and newer bistros in Ostend with explicit vegan options; carrying snacks is wise when exploring dunes.
Awareness of gluten-free needs has grown; bakeries and restaurants can sometimes accommodate, but communicate clearly ("glutenvrij") and plan ahead for specialty items.