Although technically not a beach, this 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust is Ireland’s first Nature Reserve in 1967 and offers access to sea, sand and, most importantly, sunsets. Murlough Nature Reserve is full of wildlife, including birds, butterflies and wildflowers, with the sand dune system homing over 720 species of butterflies and moths. For more information, go to nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough-national-nature-reserve .placeholder image
Although technically not a beach, this 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust is Ireland’s first Nature Reserve in 1967 and offers access to sea, sand and, most importantly, sunsets. Murlough Nature Reserve is full of wildlife, including birds, butterflies and wildflowers, with the sand dune system homing over 720 species of butterflies and moths. For more information, go to nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough-national-nature-reserve .

11 fabulous Northern Ireland beaches to enjoy the sunset before the clocks go back

By Isobel Newman
Published 3rd Oct 2024, 18:01 GMT

Northern Ireland may be known for its famous landmarks and pubs to drink Guinness in, but some of the country’s best sights come from its beaches.

The natural scenery of Northern Ireland provide arguably the best backdrops in the world to see the sunset.

With the clocks set to go back soon, there is no better time than now to take an evening seaside stroll to watch the light settle behind the water.

Take time to spend some time enjoying the autumn sunset with the help of our guide to 11 fabulous Northern Ireland beaches.

The fourth sandy beach on the list is Cushendall Beach, situated in the picturesque village of Cushendall, on the Antrim coast. If you are not a fan of sandy beaches, Cushendall Beach is backed by a grassy area that will offer visitors amazing views over the surrounding mountainous coastline. For more information, go to the Cushendall Local Information Office.

5. Cushendall Beach

The fourth sandy beach on the list is Cushendall Beach, situated in the picturesque village of Cushendall, on the Antrim coast. If you are not a fan of sandy beaches, Cushendall Beach is backed by a grassy area that will offer visitors amazing views over the surrounding mountainous coastline. For more information, go to the Cushendall Local Information Office. Photo: facebook

Castlerock Beach won the Seaside Award in 2020, and it is clear to see why thanks to the extensive 1km stretch of beach located between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary, known as the Barmouth to the east. For the dog lovers reading through this list, Castlerock Beach is the sunset-watching location for you, as it allows you to bring your four-legged friends along. For more information, go to discovernorthernireland.com/castlerock-beach

6. Castlerock Beach

Castlerock Beach won the Seaside Award in 2020, and it is clear to see why thanks to the extensive 1km stretch of beach located between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary, known as the Barmouth to the east. For the dog lovers reading through this list, Castlerock Beach is the sunset-watching location for you, as it allows you to bring your four-legged friends along. For more information, go to discovernorthernireland.com/castlerock-beach Photo: Discover NI website

If you are more of an adrenaline addict than a sunrise watcher, Whiterocks Beach in Portrush is the go-to hotspot for water sports enthusiasts, including surfers, body boarders and kayakers. Whiterocks is another addition to the list that has attained the Blue Flag Award, and has recently added a new section to the beach, the cliff path, which offers stunning views both east and west of the limestone cliffs. For more information, go to discovernorthernireland.com/whiterocks-beach

7. Whiterocks Beach

If you are more of an adrenaline addict than a sunrise watcher, Whiterocks Beach in Portrush is the go-to hotspot for water sports enthusiasts, including surfers, body boarders and kayakers. Whiterocks is another addition to the list that has attained the Blue Flag Award, and has recently added a new section to the beach, the cliff path, which offers stunning views both east and west of the limestone cliffs. For more information, go to discovernorthernireland.com/whiterocks-beach Photo: Discover NI website

For anyone looking for an Instagram-worthy sunset watching trip, Downhill Beach is perfect due to it allowing cars on the beach throughout the year, meaning you can set your boot up with a picture perfect aesthetic and watch your favourite movie whilst the sun goes down. Downhill Beach is another winner of the Blue Flag Award and is amazing for nature walks, with bird life sightings, cascading waterfalls, sand dunes and the Mussenden Temple. For more information, go to discovernorthernireland.com/downhill-beach

8. Downhill Beach

For anyone looking for an Instagram-worthy sunset watching trip, Downhill Beach is perfect due to it allowing cars on the beach throughout the year, meaning you can set your boot up with a picture perfect aesthetic and watch your favourite movie whilst the sun goes down. Downhill Beach is another winner of the Blue Flag Award and is amazing for nature walks, with bird life sightings, cascading waterfalls, sand dunes and the Mussenden Temple. For more information, go to discovernorthernireland.com/downhill-beach Photo: Discover NI website

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