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Newtownabbey Bay Beach

Beach

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Urban

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching

Spring to Autumn

Albert Bridge / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Newtownabbey Bay Beach, also known as Hazelbank, is a sand and shingle shore on Belfast Lough at Newtownabbey, on the northern edge of the city, backed by Hazelbank Park. A walking and cycling path along the lough shore runs behind it, part of the wider Loughshore Trail, with parking and toilets in ...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 7 overnight

Horatio Todd’s – Ballynahinch

Belfast Cosy Cabin, The Cabin at Forestview Farm

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
County Antrim hosts this tidal stretch along the northern shore of Belfast Lough. Anyone travelling just a few miles outside the city centre will spot the sands bordering a local park.

What type of place is Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Newtownabbey Bay Beach is a tidal beach in County Antrim.

When is the best time to visit Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for walking along the shoreline. Checking the local tide tables beforehand ensures you catch the pools at the perfect moment.

What can you do at Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Exploring the complex network of rock pools reveals plenty of trapped marine life when the tide retreats. People also enjoy walking along the adjacent cycle path to take in the coastal air and watch cargo vessels navigate the shipping lanes.

How long should I spend at Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Allowing roughly an hour or two provides plenty of time to stroll the sands and examine the volcanic rock formations. A shorter stop suffices if you just want to admire the views across the water toward the horizon.

Where do I park at Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Vehicles can occupy ten available spaces in the area, divided into three day and seven overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Horatio Todd’s, Ballynahinch represents the sole dining spot recorded nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Newtownabbey Bay Beach?
Belfast Cosy Cabin and The Cabin at Forestview Farm provide two places to book for an overnight stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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