Guide · Belgium · All year
Ten years ago a seal on the Belgian coast was news. Now they rest there almost every day: on the Klein Strand in Ostend, in Nieuwpoort harbour and at the mouth of the river IJzer. You can see them from the promenade or the jetty, no boat needed.
Short answer: the best spots are the Klein Strand in Ostend, between the two jetties by the harbour channel, and Nieuwpoort harbour and the right bank of the IJzer estuary, where 10 to 20 seals often rest. Go at low tide, stay behind the barrier and keep your dog on a lead.
Where to see seals on the Belgian coast
| Spot | What you see | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Klein Strand, Ostend | Usually 3 to 6 seals, including 1 or 2 grey seals | A fenced resting area between the jetties; a new barrier was installed in June 2025 |
| Nieuwpoort harbour | Often 10 to 20, mostly harbour seals | The most popular haul-out on the Belgian coast |
| IJzer estuary, right bank | Harbour seals on the bank | Quiet reserve; watch from the paths |
| Het Zwin, Knokke-Heist | Seals at the resting sites | Combine with birdwatching |
Watch without disturbing
- Seals are protected. Disturbing, approaching or feeding them is forbidden.
- Keep at least 30 metres away and stay behind barriers.
- Keep your dog on a lead.
- A seal alone on the beach? Leave it be and report it to a seal rescue centre.
Frequently asked questions
Seals on the Belgian coast
Where can you see seals in Ostend?
On the Klein Strand, between the two jetties by the harbour channel, where a fenced resting area usually holds a few seals.
Do you need a boat?
No. On the Belgian coast you see seals from the promenade, jetty or quay.
Also read about the harbour seal and grey seal, and the horseback shrimp fishers of Oostduinkerke.
Habitat · Belgium
