BELGIAN COAST
 

We plan to spend 3 nights on the coast. Finding the right hotel in Ostend or Blankenberge is a challenge. We are considering Hotel Die Prince in Ostend & Beach Palace in Blankenberge. Any comments or suggestions? Any experience at either hotel? We will drive down to Calais & Dukerque and up to the border with Holland. We are traveling with 13 yr old grandson and need to find hotels with triple room accomodations.

What time of year? If it's fall or winter and many places on the coast are closed, you might want to consider staying in Brugge, a short hop from Blankenberge by train or car.

Although we do like parts of the Belgian coast, we much prefer the Zeeland coast in the Netherlands. We really like the small towns like Domburg, Westkappelle, etc.

Sorry Riverfront, I'm not so familiar with Blankenberge and Oostende. I always stay in Knokke, near Blankenberge.
There's a Sea Life park at Blankenberge that your grandson might enjoy when you are there. What time of year will you be there? As BTilke said, lots of places close in winter (though the school holidays are always a busy time regardless of weather).

I'm not familiar with Oostende or Blankenberge either. In fact, the only places I like at the Belgian seaside are Knokke and De Haan.

Agree with all the above.

We are staying in Oostende from June 25-29. Visiting Dunkerque, Ypres, Atlantik Wall etc. It is supposed to be the livliest town on the coast. Not as upscale as knokke, but vivacious day & night. I want to stay as close to the ocean as possible..cannot decide whether I will roast or freeze. Any experience with hotels or restaurants in the area are appreciated. BK

Still can't help you with Oostende but considering the side-trips you want to make, you might be better off staying in De Panne or Koksijde. Check out hotel Apostroff in Koksijde or Hostellerie Le Fox in De Panne, the latter being on the beach promenade and known for its excellent restaurant.