Castlerock Beach

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Castlerock Beach is a long and peaceful sandy beach located near the village of Castlerock on Northern Ireland’s north coast. It is known for its open views, clean sands, and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for walking, fresh sea air, and quiet time by the coast.

What to See & Do

  • 🏖️ Walk along the **1km sandy shoreline** toward the Barmouth pier and the River Bann 🌊
  • 🚂 Watch the iconic **railway tunnels** as trains emerge between the cliffs and the sea 📸
  • 🦅 Explore the **ancient dunes**, a Special Area of Conservation home to diverse seabirds 🦆
  • 🦀 Discover **rock pools** at the western end beneath the towering Downhill cliffs 🐚

How to Get There

  • 🚆 By Train: **Castlerock Railway Station** 🚉 is a mere 2-minute walk from the beach entrance 🛤️
  • 🚌 By Bus: Regular 🚍 **134 and 234** services connect the village to **Coleraine** and **Limavady** 🚏
  • 🚗 By Car: Free parking 🅿️ is available on the **Promenade**; seasonal vehicle access is permitted on the eastern sand 🏁
  • 🚢 From Belfast: A scenic **1-hour 20-minute drive** via the M2 and A26 🚘

Travel Tips

  • 🧥 **Windy Conditions:** The beach is very open; 🌬️ **windproof clothing** is essential even in summer ❄️
  • 🌊 **Check Tides:** The beach is best for walking at **low tide** when the sand is firm and the pier is accessible 🦀
  • 🐕 **Dogs:** Restrictions apply on the main beach from **1st June to 15th September** 🐾
  • 🏊 **Safety:** RNLI **Beach Lifeguards** 🚩 are typically on duty during the peak months of July and August ☀️

Suggested Itinerary

  • 🕘 09:30 AM – Arrive at **Castlerock Beach** and take a brisk walk to the Barmouth pier 🏁
  • 🕙 10:00 AM – Enjoy some **beach relaxation** or explore the boardwalks through the dunes 🚶
  • 🕛 12:00 PM – Head to a local **village café** for a coffee or a traditional lunch 🍴
  • 🕜 01:30 PM – Walk or drive 1 mile west to explore **Mussenden Temple** and the Downhill ruins 🏛️

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Year-round access

Entry Fee:

Free public access

Best Time to Visit:

Morning or late afternoon

Location

📌Castlerock Beach, Castlerock, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland

👉 View on Google Maps

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