The coastal region has experienced a dip in overnight tourist stays compared to last year, due in part to the inconsistent weather in July.
Despite this setback, day visitors rose by 8% compared to July 2023, according to figures from Westtoer, the provincial tourism corporation. Notably, the weekend of 21 July was especially busy at the seafront.
Uncertain weather contributed to a 6% drop in tourist overnight stays compared to the previous July. The later start date of the summer holidays for French-speaking Belgians also led to a quieter start to the holiday season, Westtoer articulated.
Hotel occupancy along the coast in July came in at an average of approximately 70%, slightly down on the previous year. Nevertheless, more stable weather conditions in the second half of July resulted in occupancy rates in line with those of July 2023.
Flemish visitors accounted for about 62% of overnight stays, and French-speaking Belgians for 23%. Among foreign holidaymakers, Germans lead, followed by the French and Dutch.
The holiday homes sector also showed a mixed occupancy rate for July. "Last-minute bookings did not pan out this month. Whilst some providers noted a minor increase, others saw their occupancy rates decline," clarified Westtoer.
Despite these challenges, the ascent in day-tripper numbers was significant, rising by 8% compared to the previous July. "The good summer weather experienced in the latter half of July enabled us to welcome a greater number of day visitors. The peak was the weekend of July 20th and 21st, accommodating roughly 300,000 daily tourists spread over the two days."
