Ballycastle Beach is a picturesque sandy beach located in the town of Ballycastle on the north coast of County Antrim. With its dramatic backdrop of Fair Head , views across to Rathlin Island and on clear days Scotland can also be visible across the North Channel, this beach is a must-visit when exploring Northern Ireland.

Ballycastle Beach is celebrated for ⭐️

• It’s Blue Flag status, ensuring clean waters and pristine sands.

• Spectacular views of the Mull of Kintyre.

• Its proximity to iconic attractions such as Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giants Causeway.

Things to Do at Ballycastle Beach

1. Take a Scenic Stroll Along the Shore 🚶‍♀️🐾

Stretching over 1.2 km, Ballycastle Beach is perfect for a leisurely walk. The flat terrain makes it ideal for families and dog walkers, with stunning coastal views along the way.

✨ Top Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for magical lighting and peaceful vibes.

Enjoy water sports & Activities 🏄‍♂️⚽

For adventure seekers, Ballycastle Beach offers:

Kayaking and paddleboarding in the calm waters.

Surfing during the winter months when the waves pick up.

Family-friendly fun like beach volleyball and kite flying.

✨ Safety Tip: Always check tide times and weather conditions before venturing into the water.

Visit the Ballycastle Seafront 🚤🍦

The vibrant Ballycastle Seafront is just a short stroll from the beach. Here, you’ll find:

Traditional ice cream shops.

Cafés serving fresh seafood.

The Ballycastle Marina, perfect for watching boats bobbing in the harbor.

Play a Round of Golf ⛳

For golf enthusiasts, the Ballycastle Golf Club is located adjacent to the beach. This scenic course offers challenging play with unbeatable coastal views.

Wildlife Watching 🦭🦅

Ballycastle Beach is a fantastic spot for spotting wildlife, including seals, seabirds, and even dolphins during the summer months.

Nearby Cafés and Restaurants 🍴

After a day on the beach, treat yourself to a delicious meal or snack at these local favourites:

• Morton’s Fish and Chips 🐟: Famous for its freshly caught fish and generous portions.

• Thyme & Co Café ☕: A cozy spot offering homemade cakes, hearty breakfasts, and specialty coffees.

• The Bay Café 🍔: Perfect for casual dining with stunning views of the coastline.

• The Central Wine Bar 🍷: For a more upscale experience, enjoy fine dining and an extensive wine list.

• 🍕An incredible pizza spot is Al’s Pizzeria & Bistro! You can dine in or takeaway, enjoy a pizza on the beach!

Top tips for visiting:

• Parking: Free parking is available near the beach, but it can get busy during peak times, so arrive early.

• Facilities: The beach has clean public restrooms and a lifeguard service during the summer months.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather, but winter brings dramatic waves for surfers.

• Family-Friendly: The shallow waters and gentle waves make it a safe spot for kids to paddle.

• Pack for the Weather: Northern Ireland's weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and a rain jacket, just in case!

Discover Fair Head 🏞️

Towering above the eastern end of the beach, Fair Head offers a dramatic landscape perfect for hiking and photography. Climb the trails for panoramic views of Rathlin Island, Scotland, and the Causeway Coast.

The beach provides opportunities for various water activities, including swimming and paddling. While the waters may be brisk, especially in the cooler months, its a popular spot to enjoy taking a dip.

Explore Rathlin Island 🚢

Visible from the beach, Rathlin Island is just a short ferry ride away. Once there, you can:

Visit the RSPB Seabird Centre to see puffins and other wildlife (seasonal).

Hike the island’s trails for stunning cliffside views.

Learn about the island's history at the Boathouse Visitor Centre.

✨ Ferry Details: The ferry departs from Ballycastle Marina. Adult tickets start at £12 return.

Photo Tips for Ballycastle Beach 📸

1. Fair Head Backdrop: Capture the towering cliffs of Fair Head with the beach in the foreground.

2. Rathlin Island Views: Use a zoom lens for detailed shots of Rathlin from the shore.

3. Golden Hour Magic: The soft light during sunrise and sunset is perfect for creating romantic shots.

4. Reflection Shots: Wet sands during low tide create stunning reflections of the sky and cliffs.

Ballycastle Beach is a destination that truly captures the magic of Northern Ireland’s coastline, I hope you love it!