A trip to the beach is one of life's simple pleasures - and in Northern Ireland, that pleasure is now open to everyone. Thanks to the work of local charity the Mae Murray Foundation, five beaches across Northern Ireland carry the official Inclusive Beach designation, making them among the most accessible stretches of coastline.
What is an Inclusive Beach?
The term "Inclusive Beach" was coined by the Mae Murray Foundation to describe a beach environment that has been carefully planned so that people of all ages and abilities can take part, have fun, and be fully included. It is a specific designation awarded by Mae Murray Foundation and is not a generic description - each of the five Inclusive Beaches in Northern Ireland has been set up in partnership between Mae Murray Foundation and the relevant beach operator.
At an Inclusive Beach, visitors can expect:
- Appropriate parking or drop-off points close to the beach
- Accessible, dignified toilet facilities - with hoisting and adult-sized changing bench facilities to full Changing Places standard wherever possible
- Free beach equipment loan schemes, including all-terrain wheelchairs, beach walkers, mobility aids, and floating chairs
- Connectivity between the beach, accessible toilets, and nearby eateries
- Regular events and activities hosted by Mae Murray Foundation, including beach fun days, surf days, and litter picks
Membership of Mae Murray Foundation is free and is required to access the equipment loan scheme. Bookings must be made at least 72 hours in advance through a six-step online process, which includes watching a short induction video and, for floating chair loans, an additional water safety video. Equipment availability varies by beach and season, so checking the schedule on the Mae Murray Foundation website before your visit is strongly recommended.
Northern Ireland's Five Inclusive Beaches
Benone Strand, County Londonderry
Northern Ireland's first Inclusive Beach, launched in 2017 in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Benone Strand is a fitting place to start. Seven miles of unbroken golden sand, backed by dunes and open to the Atlantic, with Inclusive Beach equipment available during July and August. Benone is also a multiple Blue Flag award winner, combining outstanding water quality and facilities with full accessibility. Explore Benone Strand
Portrush East Strand, County Antrim
A beautifully maintained Blue Flag beach at the heart of the Causeway Coast, Portrush East Strand offers wide golden sands with views across to the Skerries and Causeway headlands. An Inclusive Beach run in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, with free equipment loan available during the summer season. Explore Portrush East Strand
Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry
One of Northern Ireland's most iconic stretches of coastline, Portstewart Strand is a two-mile National Trust beach backed by an extensive dune system. The Inclusive Beach project here was launched in 2022 in partnership with the National Trust, part-funded by Sport Northern Ireland, and offers free beach wheelchairs and walking frames. Equipment is available during the summer season. Explore Portstewart Strand
Cranfield Beach, County Down
Set at the mouth of Carlingford Lough with the Mourne Mountains as a dramatic backdrop, Cranfield is one of Northern Ireland's most scenically stunning Blue Flag beaches. Its Inclusive Beach designation makes it one of the most accessible beaches on the County Down coast, with free equipment loan available during the summer season. Explore Cranfield Beach
Groomsport Beach, County Down
Situated in the picturesque village of Groomsport between Bangor and Donaghadee, this is the first Inclusive Beach within the Ards and North Down Borough, run in partnership with Ards and North Down Borough Council Community Development team. Specialised all-terrain wheelchairs and beach walkers are available on Fridays and Sundays during the summer season, with staff on site to assist with bookings and equipment. Explore Groomsport Beach
Equipment availability and seasonal schedules are confirmed annually. Always check the Mae Murray Foundation website for the most up-to-date schedule, equipment list, and booking information before your visit.
How to Book
Accessing the free equipment loan scheme is straightforward. Here's what to do:
- Become a member of Mae Murray Foundation - membership is free. Register here
- Watch the induction video - this is a compulsory part of the booking process and covers everything you need to know to stay safe
- Read the FAQs and Terms & Conditions on the Mae Murray Foundation website
- Complete the online booking request form - bookings must be submitted at least 72 hours in advance
- Call the team on 0300 600 1166 if you're unsure which equipment will suit your needs best
- Look out for your confirmation email - and contact the office if you need to cancel
Walk-in access to equipment is possible but not guaranteed, as the scheme is frequently fully booked. Pre-booking is strongly recommended.
Planning Your Visit
A useful tool when planning any accessible beach visit is the Changing Places "Find a Toilet" interactive map, which highlights the nearest Changing Places facilities to your location across Northern Ireland. This is particularly helpful for visitors with complex needs who require adult-sized changing benches and hoist facilities.
For information on accessible accommodation across Northern Ireland visit the Accessible Accommodation section of Discover Northern Ireland.
