Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline produces some amazing beaches with breathtaking views. Discover some of the best beaches which are only a short drive form Belfast.

Ballyholme Beach and Park

  • Bank's Lane

Paddle in the surf along the mile long beach, a long time favourite for families to take a dip and build sand castles. Nowadays the beach is used all year round by wet suited windsurfers who come from all over Northern Ireland to skim along its waves in the breeze. Children love…

Helen’s Bay Beach

  • Grey Point

Helen's Bay Beach is one of two excellent beaches found in Crawfordsburn Country Park. These beautiful sandy beaches are by far the best within the Belfast area and as such are exceptionally popular and well used. Helen's Bay Beach is gently shelving and has excellent…

Millisle Beach Park

  • Ballywalter Road

Millisle Beach Park is a rural beach off the Ballywalter Road on the Ards Peninsula. The beach park was awarded Green Coast status in 2008 and the Rural Seaside Award in 2014. The park provides a small sandy beach, play and picnic facilities, a jetty and two slip ways. Car…

Crawfordsburn Country Park

  • Bridge Road South

Relish 3.5km of lovely beaches and riverside rambles. With two excellent beaches, spectacular scenery and views across Belfast Lough, tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens and a stunning waterfall, Crawfordsburn Country Park provides a relaxing natural retreat…