Surfing Beaches

Tap the markers for information about the locations

What to expect:

Coleraine Borough council has published that you can expect the wave height in the summer are between 2 and 6 feet, and winter can get heights of 6 to 10 feet along the north coast.

These are the beaches known for their great waves:

The locals suggest surfing at: Portrush West Strand, East Strand and Whiterocks. Portstewart Strand, Castlerock (east of beach), and Portballintrae (east of town). 

The Giants Causeway

Welcome to one of the most amazing places on the planet... The Giants Causeway. The Causeway comprises of thousands of mostly hexagonal stones laid bare by the sea. The landscape of the Causeway is like a magical set of stepping stones gently leading into the sea. They were formed either by the geological processes within an ancient volcano... or... the giants of legend who stomped and battled along the Irish coast. Visit The Giants Causeway

Benone Strand

Benone Strand is one of the most popular beaches of the Causeway Coast not only for visitors but for locals alike. The Benone Strand is seven miles of golden soft sandy beach with spectacular views of Benevenagh mountain and Donegal. There is Lough Foyle and Magilligan Point in one direction with Downhill and Mussenden Temple in the opposite. Visit Benone Strand

Downhill Beach

Downhill Beach is the start of a 7 mile beach which stretches from the base of the cliffs below Mussenden Temple to the far western point of the Causeway Coast at Magilligan Point including Benone Strand. Watch out for trains heading along the coast and through the tunnel in the cliffside. Visit Downhill Beach

Portrush East Strand

Portrush East Strand starts at the Arcadia and borders the Whiterocks. Over 2 miles of golden sand, backed by sand dunes and the Royal Portrush Golf Course. Curvaceous walkways, landscaped gardens, seating and play areas help you soak up the atmosphere of the East Strand. Visit Portrush East Strand

Portrush West Strand

The West Strand, or Mill Strand, starts at South Pier Portrush Harbour and stretches to the black rocks at West Strand Road, heading out of town towards Portstewart. Having this gorgeous beach so close to all the town action is truly a benefit giving a great holiday feel all year long. Visit Portrush West Strand

Portstewart Strand

Known as one of the most visited spectacular and pristine beaches in Northern Ireland the two miles of golden sand Portstewart Strand is protected by the National Trust in honour of its historical significance and inherent beauty as well as to protect the native wildlife, wild flora, fauna, grasslands and dunes. Visit Portstewart Strand

Runkerry Bushfoot Strand

Runkerry Strand 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. Visit Runkerry Bushfoot Strand

Whiterocks Portrush

The Whiterocks Blue Flag beach is divinely located contiguous with East Strand, forming between them, a 3 mile beach, just outside Portrush town. Sweeping golden sands, long wide beach, crashing ocean waves and giant sand dunes makes this beach truly natures playground. Visit Whiterocks Portrush