Using the data from the LACOAST database, the paper traces the land-use evolution of a 10 km broad land strip forming the Belgian coast (dune cordon and polders). Proportionately, the urban fabric is not denser here than in other parts of the coasts of northern Europe, but it is highly concentrated at the immediate proximity of the coastline, while inland urbanization is few important. We will compare the results of the successive urbanization stages, and highlight the relative parsimony of the regenerative urbanization model of the post-war period. Finally, we will look into the recent urbanization trend towards the polders area, for a long time protected, and the significance of the infrastructures non directly related to tourism (e.g. Zeebrugge). These statements are produced from quantitative bases in terms of used surfaces, and do not proceed from a more usual qualitative landscape analysis.