top of page

Helens Bay

Beach

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Woodland

Walking, Swimming

Summer

Photo: Albert Bridge via Geograph.org.uk

Helen's Bay is a sandy beach on the south shore of Belfast Lough in County Down, within Crawfordsburn Country Park near Bangor. The sand shelves gently into the sea, backed by the wooded ground of the park, with clean water and a quiet, sheltered feel. Grey Point Fort, an old coastal gun battery, st...

6

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

2 day, 4 overnight

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Helens Bay?
Northern Ireland's beautiful northern coastline hosts this seaside retreat along the shores of Belfast Lough. People often wander down from the adjacent parkland to reach the sweeping sandy shore.

What type of place is Helens Bay?
Helens Bay is a sandy beach within a country park setting in Northern Ireland.

When is the best time to visit Helens Bay?
Summer mornings offer the finest conditions for taking a refreshing dip in the exceptionally clean waters. Clear, warm days during these months also provide the best opportunity to explore the adjacent coastal paths comfortably.

What can you do at Helens Bay?
Swimming works beautifully in the gently shelving waves that move slowly across the wide expanse of soft sand. Walkers frequently track the winding trails towards Grey Point Fort to see the old military fortifications.

How long should I spend at Helens Bay?
Allocating roughly half a day ensures you have ample time to enjoy a long walk and unwind on the beach. Packing a picnic allows families to extend their stay without needing to rush back to the city.

Where do I park at Helens Bay?
Vehicles can utilise six available spaces close by, which offer a mix of two day and four overnight options. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Helens Bay?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Helens Bay, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Helens Bay?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Helens Bay, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app