Top 7 beaches to visit on a sunny day in Northern Ireland
With the sun shining our beaches have never looked better
It’s easy to see why the tourism industry here is booming, you don't need to go far to find golden white sands and clear waters. Northern Ireland is home to some of the most spectacular coastline in the world.
We' ve compiled a list of our favourite beaches to help you make the most of the good weather.
Visit Discover Northern Ireland for directions, parking and all you need to know.
The Strand, Portrush
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.
White Park Bay, Co.Antrim
Whitepark Bay is a bay and three-mile long beach located near Ballycastle on the north coast, along the Giant’s Causeway Coastal Route. Sheep and cattle graze the hills and beach along the bay, which has been under the care of the National Trust since 1938.
Benone Beach, Co.Derry~Londonderry
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 Blue Flag beach is a firm favourite throughout the year for families, activity enthusiasts and those looking for a leisurely stroll. On a clear day visitors can take in the great views of Binevenagh Mountain whilst exploring the sand dunes.
Murlough Bay, Co.Down
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.
Runkerry Beach, Portballintrae
Runkerry Beach is a spectacular 500m long 80m wide sandy beach facing north west. This gloriously positioned beach is located beyond Bushfoot Golf Club and is easily accessible via the Portballintrae end of the beach. A beautiful walking path along the tramway offers spectacular views of the north Atlantic.
Cranfield, Co.Down
Popular with family and water sport enthusiasts alike, Cranfield beach can be found in an idyllic location at the mouth of Carlingford Lough. With the majestic Mourne Mountains offering a dramatic backdrop, it is a picture perfect beach and was awarded Blue Flag status again in 2016.
Tyrella Beach, Co.Down
The award-winning Tyrella beach and dune conservation area is a small, enclosed complex within Dundrum Bay, Downpatrick, County Down. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes. Awarded the prestigious Seaside Award annually since 1997, it has also maintained the Blue Flag award since 2011.West Strand Beach is flanked on either side by the busy harbour port of Portrush and a pedestrian and cycle promenade which follows the coastline. With shops, amusements and restaurants nearby, this Blue Flag beach resort is a family favourite throughout the holidays.