Beaches
East Strand
At the heart of the coastal route, and overlooked by the hotel, this sandy beach is popular for water sports all year round, especially surfing. Also popular for family activities including walking and horse riding, this beach is bounded by a pedestrian promenade and an extensive dune system hosting the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Course.
West Strand
Also known as West Bay or Millstrand and is easily accessed from the town centre. Awarded a Blue Flag and is home to a pod of harbour porpoises just off the shore.
Whiterocks
Situated just off the Causeway Coastal Route, Whiterocks Beach is home to the stunning limestone cliffs stretching from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. A haven for watersports including surfing, it attained a Blue Flag again in 2020.
Portstewart Strand
This two mile stretch of golden sand is one of Northern Ireland’s finest beaches, with views to Inishowen headland and Mussenden Temple. Surrounded by sand dunes with marked walk ways, this Blue Flag beach is the perfect place to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the Northern Irish coastline. Cars are permitted to drive onto the beach which is managed by the National Trust.
Whitepark Bay
This secluded location is perfect for beach walks and picnics, but not for swimming due to the dangerous rip currents. A local herd of dairy cows has free range of the beach and can often be spotted sunbathing on a warm day, much to the amusement and surprise of tourists. A popular spot with locals, keep a look out for our namesake – Elephant Rock!
Downhill
© Courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland
A Blue Flag beach, Downhill is a 7 mile stretch of sand that is ideal for both watersports and scenic walks. Cars are permitted to drive onto the beach. Downhill Beach featured in Game of Thrones as Dragonstone.
