Places to stay in Northern Ireland
Places to stay in Northern Ireland
Downhill Strand beach forms the eastern end of a magnificent 7 mile (11km) stretch of sand and surf centred on the town of Castlerock. The beach at Downhill runs from just west of Castlerock to Magilligan Point.
This is some of the most scenic coastline in Northern Ireland and there are fantastic views along the cliffs that back the beach. At points along the length of the beach there are sand dunes and even a waterfall. However, the most iconic feature is the Mussenden Temple which sits precariously close to the edge of the high cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Downhill is both an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and is also a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
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.
Managed by Coleraine Borough Council, Castlerock beach backs on to the tranquil resort of Castlerock. The dunes to the east of the entrance are home to Castlerock Golf Club and a private caravan park. The dunes extend back upstream of the Bann estuary to Grangemore (some of the oldest dated dunes in Ireland) and a National Trust bird sanctuary. The beach and dunes is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI).
Between Portstewart and the mouth of the River Bann lies the golden sands and domineering sand dunes of Portstewart Strand. This area of natural beauty and of scientific interest is owned and managed by the National Trust.
A year round mecca for holiday makers, Portstewart Strand holds the prestigious Blue Flag award for the management, cleanliness and quality of water and it is also one of the few remaining beaches in Ireland where cars still have access and permission to drive onto the beach- perfect for families who wish to picnic on the golden shores.
West Strand Beach, also known as West Bay or Millstrand is a popular resort beach in the heart of this busy seaside resort. West Strand Beach is bounded at its northern end by the busy habour and flanked along its eastern boundary by a well used pedestrian/cycle promenade. Easy access to and from the town centre and all associated amenities/services.
East Strand Beach forms a continuum of sand, approx 2.5 miles long, merging into Curran Strand and Whiterocks at its eastern extremity. East Strand Beach is popular for watersports all year round, especially surfing. The beach is bounded by an impressive new pedestrian promenade and an extensive dune system hosting the world famous Royal Portrush Golf Course. Excellent views of The Skerries and the Causeway headlands.
The beach, situated just off the Causeway Coastal Route, enjoys a stunning natural coastal location, with the limestone cliffs of the White Rocks stretching from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. These soft, sedimentary rocks have been carved through centuries into a labyrinth of caves and arches. Shelagh’s Head, the Wishing Arch, Elephant Rock and the Lion’s Paw are headlands of distinguishable forms which rise out of the ocean. Under the road, there are cavernous caves, accessible only from the sea, home to seabirds and a hunting ground for hawks.
On the main coast road, you will find pull-in areas and a large car park at Magheracross where you can take in the incredible views of the headlands eastwards towards the Giant’s Causeway and back to Portrush and Donegal.
Runkerry Beach, also known locally as Bushfoot Strand, is a geological Area of Special Scientific Interest. It is one of the most exciting beach systems in Ireland with a combination of very strong waves and currents, attractive scenery and natural history. The beach extends eastwards from the mouth of the River Bush towards Runkerry House and the famous Giant's Causeway.
The beach can be accessed via a footpath from the main car park in Portballintrae, before crossing the 'Threequarter' Footbridge.
This spectacular sandy beach forms a white arc between two headlands on the North Antrim Coast. Its secluded location means that even on a busy day there is plenty of room for quiet relaxation. White Park Bay has been in the care of the National Trust since 1938 and it remains one of the most natural coastline sites in N Ireland. The beach is backed by ancient dunes and species rich chalk grasslands, which are carpeted in rare plants, including many orchids. The site is also fossil rich with archaeological evidence everywhere.
Ballycastle Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the Causeway Coast Route on the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland. Ballycastle Beach is approximately 1.2 kilometres in length and runs from the pier at Ballycastle Marina at the western end to Pans Rock in the east. Ballycastle Beach is comprised of predominately sand with some shingle. It backs on to Ballycastle Golf Course for most of its length. There is a promenade at the western end. The beach is located about 5 minutes from the town centre.