Destinations

From shingle shores framed by craggy, windswept promontories to fetching coves buffeted by North Atlantic surf, you’ll find some of the finest beaches on the Irish mainland near Belfast. Given the northerly latitude of Northern Ireland, however, don’t expect to be baking on sun-soaked golden sands and quenching your thirst with ice-cold cocktails. Rather, it’s the immense scenery, intriguing towns, nature reserves, and coastal walks that lure most travelers to the seaside.