Things to do in Nieuwpoort with bad weather
You glance outside... Rain taps against the windows. So, no beach walk today. No sun hat — but an umbrella instead. Not to worry. Even under grey skies, Nieuwpoort is bursting with things to do! A seaside holiday is still a joy, even when the sky turns gloomy. Not sure what to do in Nieuwpoort when it rains? Below you’ll find five fun activities for a rainy or stormy day by the coast.
What to do at the seaside when it rains?
1. Westfront Visitor Centre
Step into the gripping stories of the First World War, which left Nieuwpoort in ruins. At Westfront Nieuwpoort, history comes vividly to life. Beneath the King Albert I Monument, you'll discover unique artefacts, interactive exhibits, personal testimonies, and a striking 180° projection of the Yser panorama. A personal guide will lead you through the experience. And don’t forget to climb the monument for a breathtaking 360° view of the sea, the coastline, and the polders of the Westhoek region.
2. Splash around in Plopsaqua De Panne
Forget the rain and dive into the warm waters of Plopsaqua De Panne. Drift along the wild river, brave the waves in the storm pool, or take a heart-pounding free fall from a height of 20 metres! Little ones can enjoy the shallow kids’ zone with fun water features. It’s the perfect spot for aquatic fun when the weather’s gloomy — here, it’s actually fun to get wet ;-)
3. Go shopping in Nieuwpoort-Stad
Wander through the charming boutiques and shops of Nieuwpoort-Stad. Discover local delicacies, homeware stores, and fashion outlets. Treat yourself in one of the delightful speciality shops, or warm up in a cosy café with a hot drink. Shopping and unwinding all in one – perfect for a drizzly afternoon. What’s on your shopping list?
4. Visit the Vismijn
Nieuwpoort lives and breathes the sea. Join a guided tour through the fish auction hall and past the moored fishing boats. See where the fishermen dock, how the catch comes ashore, and where it is auctioned. By the end, the workings of the auction system will hold no secrets for you. A striking highlight? The restored fishing boat Surcouf, proudly on display on dry land. And of course, don’t leave without tasting some freshly caught Nieuwpoort grey shrimp, ideally with a local Rodenbach beer. It doesn’t get more local than this!
5. Navigo Visserijmuseum
Rainy day? The perfect time to dive into the maritime heritage of the Belgian coast. At the NAVIGO Fisheries Museum in Oostduinkerke, you'll stroll past old fishermen’s cottages, marvel at authentic boats, and discover the rich life at sea. Kids can explore and play while you enjoy inspiring tales of coastal life, past and present.
Discover it all from Dune Hotel
Don’t let the weather hold you back — there’s always something to experience in Nieuwpoort. Rain or wind? You’ll turn it into a fantastic day. While staying at Dune Hotel in Nieuwpoort, all the activities above are just a stone’s throw away. Are you already dreaming of your holiday on the Belgian coast?
