Portstewart Strand: A Golden Beach on the Causeway Coast
Discover Portstewart Strand: A stunning Northern Ireland beach with golden sands, ancient dunes, and panoramic coastal views.
Portstewart Strand, a two-mile stretch of golden sand on Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast, offers stunning views and a variety of activities. Backed by 6,000-year-old dunes, this National Trust-managed beach is a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for families, walkers, and watersports enthusiasts. Cars are permitted on the beach, a tradition that adds to its unique appeal.
A brief summary to National Trust - Portstewart Strand
- 118 Strand Rd, Portstewart, BT55 7PG, GB
- +442870836396
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the tide times before visiting to make the most of the expansive beach and plan your activities accordingly.
- Keep dogs on leads in designated areas (between posts one and ten) to protect wildlife and grazing livestock.
- Explore the dune trails to discover diverse flora and fauna, including rare orchids and butterfly species.
- Take advantage of the inclusive beach equipment loan scheme for all-terrain wheelchairs and mobility aids; book in advance through the Mae Murray Foundation.
- Be aware that mobile phone reception can be variable across the site.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Portstewart, follow the coastal path south for approximately 20 minutes to reach Portstewart Strand. The path offers scenic views and is a pleasant way to approach the beach. Note that the path is not entirely step-free.
-
Public Transport
Several bus routes connect Portstewart to nearby towns like Coleraine and Portrush. From the bus stop in Portstewart, it's a short walk to the beach entrance. A single bus fare within the area typically costs around £2-£3.
-
Driving
From Portstewart town center, follow the brown signs to Portstewart Strand. The car park entrance is located on Strand Road. During peak season (April to October), parking on the beach costs £8.50 per car; during the winter months (November to March), it costs £4.00. Parking is free for National Trust members and Blue Badge holders. Be aware that the road down to the car park is steep, and the sand can be soft in certain areas.
Discover more about National Trust - Portstewart Strand
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Merrick Stone
9.5 km
Discover the intriguing history and stunning scenery of Merrick Stone, a captivating landmark in Limavady, Northern Ireland.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
15.1 km
Explore the stunning Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder with rich history and breathtaking views.
Bay of the Cow
15.2 km
Explore the stunning Bay of the Cow, a tranquil coastal gem near the Giant's Causeway, rich in natural beauty and history.
Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
15.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of Giant's Causeway - a must-visit hiking area in Northern Ireland.
Giants Causeway Carpark
15.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Giants Causeway Carpark, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder and captivating myths.
Giant's Causeway Viewpoint
15.8 km
Experience the stunning vistas of the Giant's Causeway Viewpoint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Northern Ireland's natural beauty.
Giant's Causeway
15.8 km
Explore the stunning Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing unique basalt columns and breathtaking coastal scenery in Northern Ireland.
Shepherd's Steps
16.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Shepherd's Steps, a natural preserve leading to the iconic Giant's Causeway with stunning coastal views and unique geological formations.
Amphitheatre Viewpoint - End of the cliffwalk
16.4 km
Discover the breathtaking panoramas at Amphitheatre Viewpoint in Bushmills, an iconic coastal destination showcasing Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes.
North Antrim Cliff Path Hike
19.2 km
Explore the stunning North Antrim Cliff Path Hike, a breathtaking journey along Ireland's rugged coastline with enchanting views and rich history.
Dunseverick Castle
19.3 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Dunseverick Castle, a historical landmark on Northern Ireland's stunning Antrim Coast, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
19.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Moville Shore Path Walk in Inishowen, where stunning coastal views and serene pathways await every nature lover.
National Trust - White Park Bay
21.4 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of White Park Bay, where dramatic landscapes meet serene beaches in Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastline.
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
22.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Whitepark Bay viewpoint, a scenic gem along the Northern Irish coastline offering stunning views and tranquility.
The Dark Hedges
22.5 km
Discover the enchanting beech tree-lined avenue of The Dark Hedges, a must-visit natural wonder in Northern Ireland, perfect for photography and serene strolls.
Unmissable attractions to see
Portstewart Strand
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Portstewart Strand, a stunning beach destination on the northern coast of Ireland, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Visit Portstewart
1.6 km
Experience the beauty and charm of Portstewart, Northern Ireland's coastal gem with stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere.
National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
2.2 km
Discover the serene Barmouth Bird Hide, a nature reserve perfect for birdwatching and enjoying Northern Ireland's stunning wetlands.
The Barmouth
2.9 km
Experience breathtaking coastal views and serene surroundings at The Barmouth, a must-visit scenic point in Castlerock, Northern Ireland.
Rinagree Point
3.6 km
Explore Rinagree Point in Portstewart, a stunning coastal attraction with majestic views and serene walking trails perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Castlerock Beach
3.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Castlerock Beach, a stunning coastal destination perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures along Northern Ireland's coastline.
Castlerock
4.0 km
Experience the stunning beaches and rich history of Castlerock, a hidden gem on the Northern Irish coast perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Christ Church, Church of Ireland
4.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Christ Church, a tranquil Anglican gem in the heart of Castlerock, Northern Ireland.
The Black Glen
4.9 km
Explore The Black Glen, a scenic gem in Castlerock, Coleraine, offering breathtaking views and serene nature trails for an unforgettable experience.
Belvedere
5.0 km
Explore Belvedere, a historical gem in Coleraine, offering stunning architecture and serene views perfect for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Downhill Strand
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Downhill Strand, a stunning beach in Northern Ireland, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
BISHOP'S GATE - The National Trust
5.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Bishop's Gate, a picturesque attraction in Northern Ireland that captivates every visitor.
Mussenden Temple
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Mussenden Temple, an iconic historical landmark in Northern Ireland offering stunning coastal views and rich heritage.
National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, a stunning blend of natural beauty and historical architecture in Northern Ireland.
Downhill House
5.2 km
Explore the enchanting ruins of Downhill House, a historical gem with stunning coastal views and beautiful gardens in Northern Ireland.
Essential places to dine
Harry's Shack
0.1 km
Discover Harry's Shack - where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views in Portstewart, Northern Ireland.
Eighteen Ninety Four
0.3 km
Discover Eighteen Ninety Four: A coastal dining experience in Portstewart with locally sourced dishes and stunning sea views.
The Anchor Bar Complex
1.5 km
Experience coastal charm at The Anchor Bar Complex in Portstewart—where great food meets live entertainment in an inviting atmosphere.
Villa Portstewart
1.5 km
Experience exquisite grilled cuisine with stunning ocean views at Villa Portstewart – where every meal is a seaside delight.
Amici Ristorante
2.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Amici Ristorante in Portstewart - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and hospitality.
LIR
4.4 km
Savor fresh, locally-sourced seafood at LIR Seafood Restaurant while enjoying stunning views of Coleraine's marina.
The Tides Restaurant
4.6 km
Experience modern European cuisine at The Tides Restaurant in Portrush with stunning coastal views and exceptional service.
The Quays Bar & Gastropub
6.0 km
Experience the best of Irish cuisine at The Quays Bar & Gastropub in Portrush – where local flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.
Ramore Restaurants, Portrush
6.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Ramore Restaurants in Portrush, where coastal views meet exceptional French and Italian cuisine.
Neptune & Prawn
6.1 km
Discover exquisite seafood dishes blended with Asian influences at Neptune & Prawn in Portrush – where flavor meets oceanic beauty.
55 Degrees North | Restaurant | Bistro | Cafe
6.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at 55 Degrees North Bistro in Portrush – where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Elephant Rock Hotel
6.3 km
Discover luxury dining and vibrant nightlife at Elephant Rock Hotel in beautiful Portrush - your perfect coastal escape awaits.
Elliot's Bistro
6.8 km
Experience authentic local cuisine at Elliot's Bistro in Coleraine – where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
The Newbridge Restaurant
8.5 km
Discover exquisite Modern European cuisine at The Newbridge Restaurant in Coleraine – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Wolf it Down Mobile Cafe
11.1 km
Discover mouth-watering takeout at Wolf it Down Mobile Cafe in Bushmills - perfect for fueling your adventures around Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Broader Picture - Home & Lifestyle Shop
1.7 km
Explore A Broader Picture in Portstewart for unique gifts and home decor that embody local charm and craftsmanship.
Olivia's Haven
5.8 km
Explore Olivia's Haven in Coleraine for unique gifts, handcrafted candles, and a touch of local charm on your journey.
Portrush Lifeboat House and Shop
6.1 km
Explore the Portrush Lifeboat House and Shop for unique gifts and a glimpse into maritime heritage in this charming coastal town.
Jaspers
6.1 km
Explore Jaspers in Portrush for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Northern Ireland.
PORTRUSH TOYS AND SOUVENIRS
6.1 km
Explore Portrush Toys and Souvenirs for unique gifts and local memorabilia that capture the charm of this coastal gem.
PaddleCrab
6.1 km
Explore PaddleCrab in Portrush for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of this charming coastal town.
Paper Lily
6.2 km
Explore Paper Lily in Portrush for handcrafted gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland's artistry.
Jingles Gift shop
6.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and festive supplies at Jingles Gift Shop in Portrush, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Jasper's Gift Shop
6.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Jasper's Gift Shop in Portrush, where every purchase tells a story of your journey.
The Souvenir Shop
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Souvenir Shop in Portrush, a must-visit for every traveler seeking a piece of Ireland.
Causeway Coast Gifts
8.4 km
Explore Causeway Coast Gifts for a unique selection of local crafts and treasures that embody the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Creative Gardens Bushmills
11.7 km
Discover the enchanting Creative Gardens Bushmills, where vibrant flora meets exquisite outdoor furnishings in a serene setting.
Causeway Tackle
13.1 km
Explore Causeway Tackle in Portballintrae for all your fishing needs, from equipment to expert advice, amidst stunning Northern Ireland landscapes.
SPAR Bushmills
13.6 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Bushmills with a convenient stop at SPAR Bushmills for all your travel essentials and local treats.
MAEGDEN
13.6 km
Experience the finest selection of artisanal cheeses and gourmet delicacies at MAEGDEN in Bushmills, a must-visit for every food enthusiast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station Bar
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Station Bar in Portrush, where live music and great drinks come together for unforgettable nights.
The Harbour Bar
6.0 km
Experience the charm of The Harbour Bar in Portrush, where history, hospitality, and delicious pub fare meet stunning coastal views.
Harbour Gin Bar
6.0 km
Experience the best of Portrush's cocktail culture at Harbour Gin Bar, where creative drinks meet stunning harbor views.
The Offshore
6.2 km
Experience the charm of Portrush at The Offshore, where local flavors meet a vibrant pub atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking authentic Irish hospitality.
Springhill Bar
6.2 km
Experience the charm of Springhill Bar in Portrush, where great drinks and delicious pub fare await in a cozy atmosphere.
Kiwi's Brew Bar
6.2 km
Discover the flavors and sounds of Portrush at Kiwi's Brew Bar, where great food meets live entertainment in a cozy atmosphere.
Kon-Tiki Boat Bar
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Kon-Tiki Boat Bar, where tropical cocktails and stunning coastal views create an unforgettable evening in Portrush.
The Scotch House Bar
13.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Scotch House Bar in Bushmills, where traditional Irish music meets delicious pub fare and a warm welcome.
Chonga Castlecatt
14.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Chonga Castlecatt, a charming bar in Bushmills, where local culture and relaxation meet.
Blackwater Bar
17.3 km
Discover the cozy charm of Blackwater Bar in Dervock, a perfect retreat for travelers seeking local drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
McBrides Bar
17.7 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at McBrides Bar in Bushmills, a cozy pub with local brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Armada Inn
26.0 km
Discover the charm of The Armada Inn, a cozy pub in Armoy offering authentic Irish cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
The Glen Bar
28.9 km
Experience the charm of The Glen Bar in Armoy, a perfect blend of local flavors, warm ambiance, and a vibrant community spirit.
ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
30.4 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at ANZAC Bar, Restaurant & Off Sales in Ballycastle, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Glenshesk Bar
30.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Glenshesk Bar, Ballycastle's favorite spot for local brews and live music.
