Antrim & the Causeway Coast

Antrim's Causeway Coast is Northern Ireland's showpiece shoreline, home to the basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway and one of the UK's most spectacular coastal drives. Our guides pick the best beaches, standout places to visit and a run of hidden gems beyond the famous landmarks. Expect dramatic clifftop paths, ruined castles, wooded glens and sweeping strands washed by the North Atlantic. Whether you're ticking off the icons or seeking quieter corners, this is a coast that delivers drama at every turn.

Best Beaches in Antrim & the Causeway Coast

Antrim and the Causeway Coast pair one of these islands' great scenic drives with beaches like Whitepark Bay and Downhill, a match for the basalt columns.

Best Hidden Gems in Antrim & the Causeway Coast

Past the Causeway Coast's famous sights, the shore and glens of Antrim hide Mussenden Temple, Fair Head and the old hillside churches at Layd and Ardclinis.

Best Places to Visit in Antrim & the Causeway Coast

Antrim and the Causeway Coast run a shore of glens, cliffs and castles, much of it screen-famous, from Carrick-a-Rede and Cushendun Caves to Glenariff's falls.

What hidden gems are there beyond the Giant's Causeway?

While the Giant's Causeway draws the crowds, Antrim's coast hides quiet coves, lesser-known clifftop viewpoints, glens and ruined castles. Our hidden gems guide steers you to atmospheric spots away from the main visitor centres, ideal for beating the queues along this popular stretch.

What are the best beaches on the Causeway Coast?

The Causeway Coast has superb strands, from wide surf beaches to sheltered dune-backed bays. Our beach guide ranks the finest for scenery, walking and water sports, including well-known stretches near Portrush and Ballycastle where sand meets dramatic coastal backdrops.

When is the best time to visit the Causeway Coast?

Late spring to early autumn offers the mildest, driest weather and longest days for the coastal drive and cliff paths. Summer is busiest around the Giant's Causeway, so arrive early; spring and autumn bring dramatic seas and noticeably thinner crowds.