Kusthistories Middelkerke

Kusthistories is a small museum in Middelkerke dedicated to the history of tourism on the Belgian coast. It occupies a former post office at J. Casselaan 1, built in 1926 to a design by architect M. de la Croix in a restrained eclectic style. The building was granted protected heritage status in 2001 and now works as an interactive exhibition space.

What is Kusthistories about?

The museum traces how leisure at the Belgian seaside evolved from the days when the shoreline was still largely undeveloped and wild to the era of large-scale coastal tourism. The displays connect this shift to broader social changes, such as the introduction of paid holidays, and show how these changes reshaped the way Belgians spent their free time by the sea.

What can visitors see inside?

The exhibits include vintage bathing suits, photographs of grand villas from the turn of the 20th century, and material documenting the construction of the coastal tram, which played a major role in opening up seaside resorts along this stretch of coast. Transport and accommodation for tourists get their own section, tracing the shift from early guesthouses to modern hotel infrastructure. The exhibition also follows how beachwear fashions and leisure habits changed across the decades.

Why visit this museum?

Kusthistories appeals to visitors interested in local history and everyday material culture rather than just the beach itself. A visit does not take long, and the modest entrance fee makes it an easy stop during a longer walk through Middelkerke. The building itself, a heritage post office, is worth a look regardless of the exhibition inside.

The museum also serves as a starting point for a themed walking route through Middelkerke focused on the history of coastal tourism, known locally as the Kusthistorieswandeling, which lets visitors see in person the places and buildings referenced in the exhibition.

How to get to Kusthistories?

Parking directly around the museum is limited, so arriving by the coastal tram or on foot tends to be more practical, especially for visitors staying in central Middelkerke. Its location on a main street also makes it easy to combine with other stops in town.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a visit to Kusthistories take? Given the modest size of the exhibition, a visit usually takes under an hour.

Do you need to book tickets in advance? Entry requires a small fee, but visitor numbers are generally low enough that advance booking is not necessary.

Does the building still show traces of its original use as a post office? Yes, the building has retained its historical character from 1926, which is itself part of the appeal for visitors interested in the architecture of that period.

Is Kusthistories suitable for children? The subject matter leans toward adults and visitors with an interest in regional history, though the photographs and everyday objects on display can also catch younger visitors' attention.