A beach view in Breskens featuring sand dunes, beach huts, and a modern waterfront building along the coastline under a clear sky. Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse in Breskens stands tall beside a grassy hill, with two cyclists in the foreground.
Netherlands

Breskens: Between Lighthouse and Sea

Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse: A Guardian of the Westerschelde.
 Breskens, Netherlands, July 2022

The small, unassuming town of Breskens sits wedged between the marina and the beach, directly across from Vlissingen at the mouth of the Scheldt River. Its most recognizable landmark? The octagonal, black-and-white striped Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse. Built in 1868, it’s the oldest surviving cast-iron lighthouse in the Netherlands—though that detail is probably only thrilling for true lighthouse enthusiasts.

A scenic path runs along the dike, offering panoramic views of the North Sea. Sailboats glide past the coast, and if you're lucky, you might spot the massive container ships making their way through the Scheldt toward Antwerp.

And just in case you're wondering—the weather isn't quite as unpredictable as my photos might suggest. They were taken on two different days, meaning Breskens simply got two chances to show itself at its best.

Map of Breskens
A waterfront in Breskens with a bench in the foreground and numerous boats docked in the marina under a cloudy sky.
A marina in Breskens with various boats moored, surrounded by masts and a cloudy sky over the waterfront.
A sailboat glides past modern waterfront buildings in Breskens, with construction activity visible along the harbor.
Nieuwe Sluis Lighthouse in Breskens stands tall beside a grassy hill, with two cyclists in the foreground.
The Nieuwe Sluis lighthouse near Breskens has stood watch over the Westerschelde since 1867. With its bold black-and-white stripes and cast-iron frame, it’s the oldest of its kind in the Netherlands. No longer in service, but still a striking landmark, it towers over passing cyclists and shifting tides.
A red sailboat navigates the calm waters of Breskens, with modern buildings and a sandy shore in the background.
A sailboat glides on calm waters near Breskens, with a lighthouse visible on the shore in the background.
Aerial view of Breskens showcasing colorful rooftops and a clock tower against a cloudy sky. Lush greenery in the foreground.
A beach in Breskens featuring sunbathers, colorful umbrellas, and sailboats on a calm sea under a clear sky.
A sunny beach in Breskens featuring several sailboats on the calm water, with distant city buildings and beachgoers visible.
A beach view in Breskens featuring sand dunes, beach huts, and a modern waterfront building along the coastline under a clear sky.
In Breskens, the dunes and beach cabins contrast with sleek new architecture, overlooking the Westerschelde and the distant skyline of Vlissingen.
A historic lighthouse tower in Breskens, featuring a spiral staircase and surrounded by cafes and greenery.
Outdoor dining area in Breskens featuring tables, chairs, and a blue canopy, surrounded by wooden logs and potted plants.
Colorful fish sculptures in Breskens, featuring green and blue designs, set against a clear blue sky.
Albert Kramer’s "Viss'n" brings an artistic splash to Spuiplein in Breskens. These bold, oversized fish sculptures, part of a playful public installation, celebrate the town’s deep maritime heritage and have become a favorite gathering spot.
A modern church in Breskens featuring a tall, angular tower, wooden double doors, and red brick accents against a clear blue sky.
A unique landmark in Breskens: The Protestant Church stands out with its modernist architecture, featuring sharp angles and a distinctive bell tower.
A lighthouse in Breskens stands on the shore, surrounded by sandy beach and grassy dunes under a clear sky.