How to stay safe on NI's beaches this summer
Top tips from the RNLI on how to enjoy our amazing coastlines safely
Last updated 19th Jul 2021
As temperatures are set to soar this week again, with the mercury expected to hit 28 degrees in some places Downtown Radio and Cool Fm caught up with the RNLI to see how we can all stay safe at the beach.
Northern Ireland has already recorded the hottest day ever on record with temperatures hitting 31.2 degrees in Ballywatticock in Co Down.
Previously the highest temperature of 30.8°C was recorded on July 12, 1983 and June 30, 1976.
NI’s beaches, water parks and idyllic picnic spots are busier than ever, with families making the most of the surprising weather.
Lisa Hollingum, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Support had some top tips on how to enjoy our beautiful beaches safely.
She said: “We have seen increased numbers on the beach on the North Causeway Coast and North County Down.
“With the schools finished up and staycations underway and the glorious weather we’ve been having we do expect these trends to remain.”
Top tips from the RNLI:
Make sure that you go to a lifeguarded beach
- While there always remain between the red and yellow flags both in and out of the water
- Never bring toy inflatables to the beach including: dingies, rubber rings and inflatable unicorns
When using kayaks and stand up paddle boards:
- Bring a buoyancy aid or life jacket;
- Do you have a means of calling for help? - Mobile phone in a waterproof pouch or VFH radio
- Check the weather and winds on the day so you’re not going out on an offshore wind (a wind that will blow you out to sea)
What do I do if I get into difficulty?
- Call 112 or 999 and ask for the coast guard.
Lisa added: “There is a lot of people out there on the beaches and we want everyone to enjoy themselves but be sure to look out for each other and know what to do in case of an emergency.”
Check out some of NI's most popular beaches 👇
Whiterocks Beach, Portrush
Just one hour and 30 minutes from Belfast, you won't have to travel too far for some much needed R&R. Popular with surfers, bodyboarders and dog-walkers alike, this stretch of coastline is ideal for sunrise/sunset moments. It was awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award again in 2020.
Murlough Beach, Newcastle
The boardwalk alone that leads from the car park to the shore is stunning. You're greeted with five miles of golden sands as you arrive. Your backdrop for a snap here has to include the iconic Mourne Mountains.
Downhill Strand, Castlerock
Mussenden Temple sits perched overlooking Downhill's enchanting beach. On a bright summer's day take in views of the Donegal Coast and beyond. If you are visiting, look out for the train as it roars past the beach on its to Derry/Londonderry.
Portstewart Strand, North Coast
Owned and cared for by the National Trust, Portstewart's Strand is one of Northern Ireland's finest. Cars can drive onto the sand, making this a perfect choice for families picnicking and swimming in the shallow shores.
Seapark, Holywood
This is a popular seaside visit for Belfast locals, tucked alongside the harbour, your sunset pic here could go viral with views like this. Holywood's main parkland and recreational area has a variety of activities including tennis courts, putting green and children's playground.
Warrenpoint, Newry
The views over the mouth of Carlingford Lough and the scenic Mourne Mountains make this spot such a picture-perfect location. The water here is popular with locals for jet skiing, kayaking and banana boating.
Tyrella Beach, Downpatrick
This wide and flat stretch of sand is nestled close to Dundrum Bay and is popular with locals throughout the summer. The Mourne Mountains lurk in the distance behind the wispy dunes here too.
Minerstown Beach, Ardglass
One of Northern Ireland's hidden gems, Minerstown is the perfect destination for sea swimming. The water is both shallow and calm - plus look at that sunset pic!
Ballycastle Beach, Causeway Coast
This 1.2km beach is made up mostly of sand and pebbles. A wooden bridge leads from the eastern end of the beach to a well-known rock formation, "Pans Rock".
Magiligan Point, Limavady
With seven-miles of sand this beach walk offers visitors the chance to roam, spot birdlife and potentially seals.
White Park Bay, Ballintoy
A short trek down the cliff towards the sea and you'll be blown away, sometimes literally by the beauty of White Park Bay. You will can see why Game of Thrones used this spot as a location for the HBO show - you can't build caves and arches quite like this!
Ballywalter Beach, Newtownards
Ballywalter beach sits in a rural setting along the Ards Peninsula, backed mostly by fields, making it ideal for walkers looking for some peace and quiet.
East Strand, Portrush
At the heart of the coastal town of Portrush, East Strand Beach is popular for surfing and water sports all year round. With views of The Skerries and the Causeway headlands, this is one of the best walking routes Northern Ireland has on offer!
Read More:
How long is NI's heatwave expected to last?
Complete guide to stand-up paddleboarding in Northern Ireland
NI's best water parks & activity centres