28 June 2022

Breakfast by the Sea

It is a very well-known fact the beach and the cool ocean breeze calms and relaxes the mind as well as decreases stress levels and boosts the production of endorphins.

So why not spend the most important meal of the day by the sea followed by a visit to the nearest beach to feel the sand between your toes, paddle your feet in the water and make lots of sand castles.

Here are some of our top picks (going in a clockwise direction from the North Coast) with great places close by for breakfast or even better – bring your own and have it on the beach!

Castlerock Beach

The beach has an extensive dune system and the Barmouth estuary at its eastern extremity. The western end has impressive basaltic cliffs and an extensive promenade. The Surf Shack overlooks the beach, making it an ideal spot to grab a cuppa and watch the world go by, or grab a board and jump in the water!

Ballycastle Beach

Ballycastle Beach offers stunning views of Rathlin Island and Fairhead and is only a 5 minute walk from the town centre where there are plenty of eating options. Closest to the beach is Shorebird Coffee Hut on the sea front where you can call in for a coffee, a cool drink and some homemade food. There is also a children’s play park on the seafront right beside the beach.

Ballycastle Beach Credit Alma Boyle

Waterfoot Beach

Also known as ‘Kearney’ is approximately 1km in length. The bathing area is backed by dunes which run the length of the beach and the village of Waterfoot is at the northern end of the beach. There are limited eating options close to the beach however there is a quaint tea room at Glenarm Castle which is about a 20 minute drive away along the Coast Road, one of Ireland’s most scenic drives – so well worth it. The beach is also right beside a children’s play park and on the 3rd July and 7th August there is a ‘Beach/Yoga’Swim/Social’ event happening at the beach.

Waterfoot Beach

Helen’s Bay Beach

Helen’s Bay Beach is one of two excellent beaches found in Crawfordsburn Country Park. The country park provides an excellent back drop to the beach, with wooded headlands, meadows, quality walks and good facilities including The Woodlands Café which serves hot/cold drinks, tray bakes, food and ice cream.

Newcastle Beach

This sand and pebble beach lies next to the small seaside town of Newcastle with a magnificent backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. A short walk from the beach is a lovely coffee shop called Railway Street which is famous for its specialty coffee & artisan food.

Newcastle Beach

To find even more beaches right across Northern Ireland visit our interactive map which has its very own filter for beaches.  

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