Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

East Strand Beach
Portrush, County Antrim

You are here: Home > Plan your Trip > Trip Inspiration > Seasonal Inspiration > Beaches & Seaside Towns

Beaches & Seaside Towns

When it comes to a summer holiday many people’s first thought is a beach somewhere. Golden sand as far as the eye can see. A gentle off-shore breeze. The roll and hiss of waves on the shore.

You’ll find all that and a whole lot more right here in Northern Ireland where we have some of the best beaches in Western Europe and our seaside towns offer far more than a scoop of ice-cream and somewhere to buy a beach ball or two.

Bring your bucket and spade to the Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coast is famous for an awful lot of things. Long before Game of Thrones® led a whole new generation of fans to these rocky, castle-strewn shores, generation after generation of visitors flocked to the immense beaches at Portrush and Portstewart. Alongside these landmark beaches are simply dozens of other inlets, coves and bays just waiting for you to discover.

All the sand and space you need at Portstewart

At the two-mile-long, Blue-Flag Portstewart Strand it’s all going on. This is one of the places where it seems that the whole of Northern Ireland comes to play when the sun comes out from behind the clouds. Yet with such a vast expanse of strand, there’s more than enough room for everyone to settle in and stretch out in the sun. Watersports, from bodyboarding and surfing to kite surfing and jet skiing, are all welcome and safely-segregated here which means there’s always something to keep everyone happy..

The Portstewart Strand Visitor Centre offers a fascinating insight into the nature and wildlife to be found on the strand itself and the dunes which embrace it.

The town of Portstewart is just minutes away. Developed in the nineteenth century as a Victorian seaside town for the middle-classes, today it still manages to retain a genteel air about its mannered streets and lanes. The extensive promenade is the focus of attention for many locals and visitors, but a little exploration will see you uncover an eclectic mix of artisan shops selling everything from the afore-mentioned beach balls to locally baked bread from the award-wining Amazin’ Grazin’ bakery and the finest of Irish whiskey from the nearby Old Bushmills Distillery.

Get your energy rush at Portrush

If Portstewart is made for long walks and lazy summer days, then nearby Portrush is made for watery thrills and spills. With three amazing Blue Flag beaches to choose from – West Strand, East Strand and White Rocks - you’re bound to find just the spot for you, whether that’s a spot of sunbathing, strolling or surfing.

Speaking of surfing, Portrush is the epicentre of Northern Ireland’s vibrant and growing surfing scene and you’ll find loads of surf schools, stores and shacks here. Many surfers prefer the long rolling waves of the East and West strands, leaving families and others to flock to White Rocks, but to be honest, there’s so much sand and waves here that everyone just mingles and enjoys it all together.

The town of Portrush itself is always buzzing with visitors from all walks of life. Surf dudes of course, but also other adrenalin-junkies here for the other water sports and adventures on offer, and families who love it for its more traditional attractions like amusement arcade, donkey rides and fairground attractions, not to mention sandcastle building. All across this busy, friendly town you’ll find a wide range of places to stay, from hotels to guesthouses and B&Bs to campsites, and places to eat and drink that serve everything from fish and chips to modern Asian fusion.

Fall asleep and wake to the sound of waves

Amongst the best known places to stay here are the Royal Court Hotel (3*) with its dramatic views over the sea and Royal Portrush links, family friendly Portrush Atlantic, Adelphi Guesthouse or Blackrock House B&B (5*) (Winner Best B&B/Guest House at the Giant Spirit Awards 2022) which is an immaculately restored Edwardian terraced house offering a stylish, boutique experience.

World class golf

Another activity round these parts is golf and Portrush is home to Royal Portrush Golf Club, host to The 148th Open Championship in 2019. This challenging links course attracts players and visitors from around the world, just like the world’s greats who regularly play here.

Take a beach break in Ballycastle

Another beach worth exploring can be found at Ballycastle, a long and mostly sandy beach on the Antrim coast which looks out towards Rathlin Island. It attracts the usual mix of swimmers, surfers, bodyboarders and picnickers, attracted by the sand, clean seas and dune, but also by its proximity to the town itself.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking to stay a little longer then there’s all sorts of places to consider, including The Salthouse hotel, a luxury eco hotel with 24 bedrooms and suites, a spa and high-end dining experiences with dramatic sea and cliff views. While couples might gravitate towards the Salthouse’s refined luxuries, families will find themselves equally well looked after at both the Ocean View Chalets (4*) and the Marine Hotel (3*).

Miles and miles at Downhill and Benone

With seven miles of sandy shoreline from Downhill to where it meets Magilligan Point, Benone Beach forms part of one of Ireland’s longest beaches. This special landscape offers opportunities for nature walks and sightings of bird life amongst a backdrop of cascading waterfalls, extensive sand dunes, and the prominent Mussenden Temple. Water sports, scenic walks and family-friendly facilities, make this Blue Flag beach an ideal place to explore.

Near perfect sea and sand in Newcastle

If there’s a premier spot for seaside holidays on the Irish Sea in Northern Ireland, then it just has to be Newcastle, County Down. This place has it all in buckets, and spades! From its Mourne mountains backdrop, to its sweeping curve of strand and seafront, to its internationally famous golf championship course, it’s all here. Throw in a landmark hotel overlooking everything, and it’s hard to look elsewhere for the best place to be when the sun is shining and the waves glittering into the distance.

There are campsites, glamping sites and caravan parks aplenty, most within easy reach of the golden sands. There are also lots of self-catering options, with the luxury three- and four-bedroom Hillyard Mews (4*) and Waterfoot Apartments (4*), right on the water’s edge, just a couple to consider. But no stay here would be complete without even a drink or a meal in the stunning Slieve Donard Resort & Spa Hotel (4*). It sits right between the beach and the golf course and offers numerous bars and restaurants, as well as 180 bedrooms and suites, 6 acres of private grounds, and a luxury spa experience.

Nearby Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6,000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and is an excellent area for walking and birdwatching due to its spectacular location at the edge of Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains. With its shingle beach and four mile Blue Flag strand, there are nature trails to explore, activities for kids, and wildlife to discover.

On the beach and off the beach, Northern Ireland’s seaside strands and towns always offer something active, something relaxing, something fun and something truly memorable for everyone.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 22

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
135 reviews
Ballyholme Beach

Bangor

Address

Bank's Lane, Groomsport Road, Bangor, County Down, BT20 5EG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9127 0069

bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

The mile long crescent of sandy beach curving along Ballyholme bay has been a favourite sea bathing spot for generations.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
East Strand

Portrush

Address

Causeway Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8AF

Telephone
+44 (0) 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Beach

East Strand Beach in Portrush is a famously golden sandy beach, with views of The Skerries and Causeway headlands. This is a popular destination for groups of families and friends, with lots of great seaside facilities to enjoy.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement - Restrictions apply 1st June to 1th September.
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking - Other public car parks nearby, fees apply
- On site parking - Fees apply (all year round)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
52 reviews
Browns Bay Beach & Ferris Bay

Islandmagee

Address

Browns Bay Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3RX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8232

parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Beach

Browns Bay is a charming rural beach nestled in a scenic sandy cove at the northern tip of Islandmagee, just off the Causeway Coastal Route. It's an ideal spot for picnicking, walking, swimming, windsurfing, or simply soaking up the natural beauty…

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Whitepark Bay

Dunseverick

Address

Whitepark Road, Dunseverick, County Antrim, BT54 6NS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7084 8728

northcoast@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

Beach

The spectacular beach forms a white arc between two headlands on the North Antrim coast. In this secluded location, even on a busy day there is a refuge for quiet relaxation.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
4 reviews
Millisle Beach Park

Millisle

Address

Ballywalter Road, Millisle, County Down, BT22 2HS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9182 6846

ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Millisle Beach Park is an area of 150 metres of golden sand and a relatively safe bathing seawater lagoon extending out 50 metres. A jetty, slipways and paddling pool complement the lagoon area.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
83 reviews
Whiterocks

Portrush

Address

Whiterocks Car Park, Dunluce Road A2, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Whiterocks Beach has become a favourite with locals and a must see destination for international visitors. The beach frequently attains the Blue Flag Award, most recently in 2025.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
72 reviews
Downhill Stand

Castlerock

Address

Mussenden Road, Downhill, Castlerock, County Londonderry, BT51 4RP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7776 0650

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Downhill is a golden sandy beach stretching from Downhill Cliffs in the east towards Magilligan Point. It's overlooked by one of Northern Ireland's leading landmarks, Mussenden Temple, and benefits from classic views of the Donegal Coast and beyond.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
120 reviews
Cranfield West Beach

Kilkeel

Address

Cranfield, Kilkeel, County Down, BT34 4LN

Telephone
+44 (0) 330 137 4046

info@visitmournemountains.co.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Cranfield West offers a gently sloping, mainly sandy beach located at the entrance to Carlingford Lough, an area designated as being of Special Scientific Interest.

Price
Free

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
116 reviews
Castlerock Beach

Castlerock

Address

Sea Road, Castlerock Stand, Castlerock, County Londonderry, BT51 4RE

Telephone
+44 (0)28 7776 0650

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Castlerock is a 1km (0.7 mile) long stretch of beach between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary known as the Barmouth to the east. The beach is a recipient of the Blue Flag Award in 2025.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement - Restrictions apply 1st June to 15th September
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Newcastle Beach

Newcastle

Address

Newcastle Promenade, Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0AA

Telephone
03301374046

visitorservices@nmandd.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Sand & pebble beach located on the south down coast.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- Parking (free)
West Strand

Portrush

Address

Portstewart Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8EY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

West Strand Beach, also known as West Bay or Mill Strand is a popular resort beach in the heart of the busy seaside resort of Portrush. The beach frequently attains the Blue Flag Award, most recently in 2025. Bounded at its northern end by the busy…

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking - seasonal charges apply
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
349 reviews
Ballycastle Beach

Ballycastle

Address

Carrickmore Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6QS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Ballycastle Beach offers stunning views of Rathlin Island and Fairhead and is approximately 1.2 kilometres in length.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
237 reviews
Portstewart Strand and Barmouth

Portstewart

Address

Portstewart Strand, Portstewart, County Londonderry, BT55 7PG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7083 6396

portstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

The National Trust

Between Portstewart and the mouth of the River Bann lies the golden sands and domineering sand dunes of Portrush Strand Beach. This area of natural beauty and of scientific interest is owned and managed by the National Trust.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
31 reviews
Tyrella Beach

Clough

Address

Clanmaghery Road, Clough, County Down, BT30 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 330 137 4046

delamont.park@nmandd.org

Type

Type:

Beach

Tyrella beach and conservation area is a small, enclosed dune complex within Dundrum Bay. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes in a conservation area.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply) - Parking Charges apply from Easter to September (weekends only) & July & August (daily) 10am - 6pm. www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/parking
Parking & Transport
- Parking (charge) - Parking Charges apply from Easter to September (weekends only) & July & August (daily) 10am - 6pm. www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
15 reviews
Ballywalter Beach

Ballywalter

Address

Springvale Road, Ballywalter, County Down, BT22 2PE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9182 6846

ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

A long sandy beach which offers enjoyment for all.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Murlough Beach

Newcastle

Address

Dundrum Road, Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0LW

Telephone
03301374046

visitorservices@nmandd.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

This 5 mile stretch of golden sands is still the essence of the resort and is hugely popular for swimming, sunbathing and other forms of recreation.

Price
Free

More Info
Groomsport Beach

Groomsport

Address

Main Street, Groomsport, County Down, BT19 6JP

Telephone
028 9127 0069

bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Beach

Groomsport has one of Northern Ireland's few fully accessible beaches for all ages and abilities, located close to Bangor in County Down.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
68 reviews
Ballygally Beach

Ballygally

Address

Coast Road, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2QZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8232

Parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Escape to Ballygally Beach, just 10km north of Larne on the Causeway Coastal Route. Enjoy a scenic walk, fun sandcastle building, or a refreshing swim at this family-friendly seaside destination.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
25 reviews
Carnlough Harbour

Carnlough

Address

Harbour Road, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2884 1285

GlenarmMarina@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Carnlough's sheltered historic harbour, with small fishing boats, is the focal point of this picturesque village, located on the Causeway Coastal Route. It's a well known Game of Thrones® film location, recognisable as the Free City of Braavos Canal.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
13 reviews
Helen's Bay Beach

Helens Bay

Address

Crawfordsburn Country Park, Helens Bay, County Down, BT20 5ED

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9127 0069

bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Beautiful sandy beach with excellent facilities, all within twenty minutes drive of Belfast.

Price
Free

More Info