We will be departing from Bruges in April and joining friends in Deauville, France. Seeking advice on travel between these two points. Thanks!
You have quite many options with at least one train change in Paris. That one takes little over 7 hours. There are some options taking less time but with more train changes (up to six). For details check Deutsche Bahn website.
Your best route will probably be from Bruges to Paris (change at either Brussels or Lille) and then Paris to Deauville. You will get cheaper tickets booking about 3 months in advance (so now or thereabouts). You will need to cross from Gare du Nord to Saint-Lazare in Paris - take at least an hour connection time to ensure you don't miss the second train.