Ballintoy Harbour
A stunning fishing harbour on the Causeway Coast, famous for its dramatic scenery and 'Game of Thrones' filming locations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Ballintoy Harbour
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning fishing harbour on the Causeway Coast, famous for its dramatic scenery and 'Game of Thrones' filming locations.
"The views are stunning with gorgeous waters. Take boots if you're wanting to venture into the caves."
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited and can be challenging, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to walk.
🥾 Gear Up for Caves
Bring sturdy boots if you plan to explore the sea caves; they can be slippery and wet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Harbour
Ballintoy Harbour
A picturesque fishing harbor with a steep, winding road leading down. Famous filming location for 'Game of Thrones'.
Secret Beach & Caves
Adjacent to the harbour
Discover hidden coves and sea caves. Perfect for exploring, especially at low tide. Wear sturdy boots!
Dramatic Coastal Views
Causeway Coastal Route
Experience breathtaking scenery along the winding coastal road, offering stunning sea views and rock formations.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Steep Descent
Cash is King at the Cafe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited and can be challenging, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to walk. +1
🥾 Gear Up for Caves
Bring sturdy boots if you plan to explore the sea caves; they can be slippery and wet.
💰 Cash for Cafe
The harbor cafe is cash-only due to no internet. Have some local currency ready!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
Don't just stay at the harbor; a short walk can lead you to quieter spots and hidden gems.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited and can be challenging, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to walk. +1
🥾 Gear Up for Caves
Bring sturdy boots if you plan to explore the sea caves; they can be slippery and wet.
💰 Cash for Cafe
The harbor cafe is cash-only due to no internet. Have some local currency ready!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
Don't just stay at the harbor; a short walk can lead you to quieter spots and hidden gems.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunsets here are spectacular. The winding road and coastal views create incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Ballintoy Harbour, particularly its picturesque setting and the dramatic coastal views. Many appreciate its connection to 'Game of Thrones' and the charm of the winding road leading down. However, parking can be a significant challenge, and the cash-only cafe is a point of note for some.
"Lovely, tight, windy road down to the harbour! The views are stunning with gorgeous waters. Take boots if you're wanting to venture into the caves. There's public toilets available and plenty parking for vans etc. The fishing from the harbour side looks brilliant by the way!"
D
"Lovely little beach with rock pools and great views. The small harbour at Ballintoy was used in the epic drama 'Game of Thrones'. It was the weekend and very busy when we went so it was difficult to find a parking space. Certainly worth a visit."
Chris Kinnersley
"Parking is soooo hard to come by, even on a Tuesday when I visited. I had to make my own spot and then 10 others joined in and lined up behind me. This is also the access point to elephant rock, along with shops, swimming, and kayaking. A lot to do in such a small area!"
Alex Bennett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ballintoy Harbour is located on the Causeway Coastal Route in County Antrim. It's accessible by car via a steep, winding road off the B15 coast road. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, the road is quite steep and winding, which can be challenging for some drivers, especially during busy periods. Parking at the top and walking down is a common strategy.
Parking is available but can be very limited, especially on weekends and during peak season. Be prepared for potential difficulties finding a spot. +1
Public transport to Ballintoy Harbour is not straightforward. While buses may pass nearby on the Causeway Coastal Route, direct service to the harbour itself is infrequent. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider a tour.
Driving the Causeway Coastal Route allows you to stop at various viewpoints. Ballintoy Harbour is a key stop, but also consider nearby attractions like the Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Ballintoy Harbour itself. You can wander around the harbour and the adjacent beach freely.
Ballintoy Harbour is an outdoor public space and is accessible at all times. However, the cafe and any shops may have specific operating hours.
The 'secret beach' and surrounding areas are natural attractions and do not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors. +1
If you are joining a guided tour that includes Ballintoy Harbour, you will need to book that tour in advance. Independent visits do not require booking. +1
Public toilets are available at the harbour. There is also a cafe and sometimes a coffee van, though these are cash-only. +1
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The winding road leading down, the harbour itself with its boats, the sea stacks, and the 'secret beach' offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Sunsets are particularly stunning.
Absolutely! The harbour and its dramatic coastline are incredibly photogenic at sunset, with the light casting a beautiful glow on the sea and rocks.
Drone footage of Ballintoy Harbour is popular, showcasing its beauty from above. Always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors.
A 'raised beach' refers to a beach that is now above the current sea level, often due to geological uplift or changes in sea level over time. This gives it a unique elevated perspective.
While the entire harbour area was used, specific spots like the steps leading down to the harbour and the surrounding rocky outcrops are recognizable from the show.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the harbour, walk to the 'secret beach', discover sea caves, enjoy the coastal views, and visit the small cafe. It's also a popular spot for wild swimming. +1
Yes, there are coastal walks around the harbour and to nearby beaches. The terrain can be rocky and uneven, so good footwear is recommended.
Yes, wild swimming is popular here, especially from the 'secret beach'. Be aware of tides and currents, and always swim safely.
The steep, winding road down to the harbour can be a challenge. While the harbour area itself is relatively flat, accessing the beach and caves may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
The 'secret beach' is a secluded cove accessible via a short walk from the main harbour. It's known for its rock pools and a more tranquil atmosphere. +1
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe at the harbour that serves refreshments. A coffee van is also often present. +1
No, the cafe at Ballintoy Harbour is cash-only due to a lack of internet service. Make sure to bring cash.
The cafe typically offers light snacks, coffee, tea, and cakes. It's a good spot for a quick refreshment after exploring.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the coast or on the beach to enjoy a packed lunch, weather permitting.
If the cafe is closed, your best bet is to explore dining options in nearby villages like Ballycastle or Bushmills, which offer a wider range of restaurants and pubs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the steep road down to the harbour; consider parking at the top and walking to avoid any issues with younger children or strollers. The cafe provides a convenient spot for a snack or a warm drink. While the caves might be too adventurous for very young children, older kids will likely enjoy the sense of discovery.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
+2Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) is particularly magical here, casting a warm glow over the landscape and creating stunning opportunities for dramatic shots. Drone photography is also very popular, offering unique aerial perspectives of the harbour and coastline.
Don't forget to capture the Game of Thrones filming locations for that extra bit of fan appeal. The raw, natural beauty of the location ensures you'll come away with a portfolio of breathtaking images.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Exploring the sea caves and rock pools adds an element of adventure to your visit. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. The wild swimming opportunities also appeal to nature enthusiasts seeking an invigorating dip in the sea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Ballintoy Harbour: A Game of Thrones Gem
+1Visiting Ballintoy Harbour offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of Westeros. The natural beauty of the harbour, with its sea stacks and rocky shores, makes it a compelling location even without its Game of Thrones connections. The steep, scenic road down to the harbour itself is an experience, offering breathtaking views as you descend towards the sea.
+1For fans of the show, it's a must-visit. The harbour's raw, untamed beauty is a testament to why it was chosen as a filming location. Even if you're not a Game of Thrones enthusiast, the picturesque setting and the chance to explore the 'secret beach' and caves make it a worthwhile stop on the Causeway Coastal Route.
Exploring the 'Secret Beach' and Caves
Adjacent to the beach are several sea caves that add to the adventurous appeal of the area. These caves offer a sense of discovery and are particularly intriguing for photographers and explorers. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear, such as hiking boots, when venturing into the caves, as the surfaces can be slippery and uneven.
The 'secret beach' and its caves are best enjoyed during low tide, allowing for maximum exploration. The dramatic rock formations and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore create a truly immersive natural experience. It's a fantastic spot for photography, offering a different perspective from the main harbour.
The Causeway Coastal Route: A Scenic Drive
+1As you travel the route, you'll encounter a diverse landscape of rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and charming villages. The Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a major highlight nearby, as is the iconic Dunluce Castle. The route is dotted with numerous viewpoints, perfect for stopping and soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
Driving the Causeway Coastal Route allows for flexibility, enabling you to stop at Ballintoy Harbour and other attractions at your own pace. The winding roads and coastal views are a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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