Nothing says summer like a seaside town and Northern Ireland has some of the prettiest, most panoramic and most welcoming of all. Whether you’re looking for a coastal adventure, an encounter with sea-faring wildlife or villages to potter about in, there’s a place here for you. And if all that doesn’t have you reaching for the buckets and spades, the thought (and taste) of exceptional locally produced food and drink certainly will.
Along the Causeway Coastal Route
1. Ballycastle
Ballycastle has a spectacular marina, just made for outdoor activities. It’s a great place to be on a sunny day, with plenty of nearby restaurants and pubs for when you need a break. And if you’re staying a while longer, the Marine Hotel makes a brilliant base for exploring the area.
Just a short ferry ride away is Rathlin Island, home to an RSPB Seabird Centre. So you’re sure to meet some other summer (feathered) visitors, including puffins - if you’re here between April and July.
2. Portstewart
This seaside town is a great place for families with lots of friendly entertainment during the peak summer holiday season.
The blue flag Portstewart Strand is a big hit with surfers. The more enthusiastic ones take to the water all through the year. And, if you’re looking for somewhere special to eat, you don’t have to look too far. The famous Harry’s Shack is right on the beach, serving up superb local produce.
3. Portrush
Just minutes from Portstewart is the wonderful town of Portrush, an all-time favourite for families who return year after year. Perhaps to visit Curry's Fun Park (formerly the legendary Barry's Amusement park) which has been part of the scenery here for over 90 years.
Not surprisingly, some of the finest links golf courses are found along this coastline too. One of the world’s most challenging, Royal Portrush Golf Club hosted The Open Championship for the second time in 2019, with The 153rd Open due to return once again in 2025. And Portrush is also home to Dunluce Castle – historic ruins on the dramatic coastal cliffs.
Nearby, the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Old Bushmills Distillery will ensure you never run out of things to do – no matter which beach you choose.
At the foot of the Mourne Mountains
4. Newcastle
With the magical Mourne mountains as a backdrop, Newcastle sits in a pretty spectacular location. There are plenty of cafés, bars and amusements here to keep you entertained. And a busy harbour which you may have to share with some visiting seals.
The blue flag Murlough Beach is just a stone’s throw away. As is the Murlough National Nature Reserve, a 6,000 years old sand dune system and a haven for walkers and birdwatchers. Bring your hiking boots though. You could find time for a trek up Northern Ireland’s highest mountain, Slieve Donard. Then, if you’ve still got energy to burn, head to neighbouring Castlewellan for a visit to the Forest Park and Peace Maze.
5. Warrenpoint
Just a short drive from Newry along the Mourne Coastal Route is the seaside town of Warrenpoint. Overlooking picturesque Carlingford Lough, this is the ‘Narnia’ land that inspired Belfast-born C.S. Lewis to go open that wardrobe.
If you’re in search of some more family outdoor fun, Kilbroney Park in nearby Rostrevor is a popular spot and you can drop by The Rostrevor Inn for some tasty food in their elegant bistro.
Down to the sea
6. Bangor
The beautiful seaside resort of Bangor, now officially a city, sits on the southern side of Belfast Lough, not too far from Belfast itself. It’s home to one of Ireland’s largest marinas – a holder of the prestigious 5 Gold Anchor Award. Nearby, the Pickie Family Fun Park is a seaside paradise for kids with Giant Swan pedal boats, paddling pools, adventure playgrounds and a miniature railway.
There are more attractions at North Down Museum in Bangor Castle’s picturesque stable block. You’ll learn all about the region’s history, experience life as a Viking and see your young explorers set off to discover the hidden wildlife of Castle Park.
7. Strangford Lough
The pretty conservation village of Strangford is a picture-perfect place for a relaxing lunch or a stroll around the harbour. So, it won’t surprise you to hear that Strangford Lough itself is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s also home to Northern Ireland’s only Marine Nature Reserve. And just a short ferry hop to Portaferry Castle to wander the wonderful grounds or chill as you take in the breath-taking views.
So, if that sound you’re hearing is the call of the sea – and you can already feel the sand between your toes – you know what to do. Get packing, and we’ll see you soon.
Ideally located between the Glens of Antrim and the Causeway Coast, the Marine Hotel lies only 2 minutes from the beach and 2 minutes from the ferry terminal to Rathlin Island. The hotel has all conveniences including free WiFi throughout.
Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.
Just six miles off County Antrim's north coast with must see views of Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony and a chance to explore Rathlin's unique 'upside down' lighthouse part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland Trail.
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.
A shack, located on arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Ireland - Portstewart Strand - which serves fresh local fish, meats, vegetables and more. What's not to love!
Founded in 1888, the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club has two Championship Courses - the renowned Dunluce Course and the smaller, but equally enjoyable Valley Course. Proud Hosts of The 148th Open in 2019.
Dunluce Castle is located dramatically close to a headland that plunges straight into the sea, along the North County Antrim coast.
Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.
Carrick-a-Rede one of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions in Northern Ireland, cared for by the National Trust, a registered conservation charity founded to protect beautiful and special places for ever, for everyone.
In 1608, in Bushmills, a legend was born. In that year, King James I granted a very particular licence to this small village, just a few miles inland from Ireland’s rugged north coast. The licence gave Bushmills the right to distil whiskey. Today, Bushmills is home to the oldest licenced whiskey distillery in the world.
"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" (Percy French) The popular song has made the Mournes the best known mountains in Ireland. Distinctive and self contained, they are tucked away in the south east corner of Northern Ireland. Dominated by Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, this area of outstanding natural beauty is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
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.
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Castlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, making it a must-visit for all ages.
Famous for delicious, great value food & welcoming ambience, the award-winning Rostrevor Inn hosts a popular bistro, atmospheric traditional bar. The beautifully renovated 1800s building is yards from Kilbroney Park, the gateway to the Mournes.
Bangor Marina is located right in the heart of Bangor city centre close to all major road, rail and air transport networks. The Marina lies at the mouth of Belfast Lough offering exceptional access to world class yacht racing waters.
Enjoy a fun day out at Pickie Fun Park. Try out the 18-hole mini-golf course, giant pedal swans, Pickie Puffer train, children's play area, children's electric car track and more.
Visit North Down Museum to explore the fascinating saga of the North Down area from the Bronze Age to the present day. The Museum takes you on a journey through Early Christian heritage and the Vikings to Scottish Settlers and the Victorians.
This impressive building was built for the Hon Robert Edward Ward and his family in 1852. It is presently the headquarters of Ards and North Down Borough Council who use the mansions spectacular grand salon as the council chamber.
Stroll through this beautiful wooded wonderland which is an exhilarating experience throughout the seasons.
Portaferry Castle is a 16th Century tower-house, built by the Savage family. It is located on the slope overlooking Portaferry harbour.
