Runkerry Beach - Image 1
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Runkerry Beach

4.8
·90 reviews·Portballintrae, United Kingdom

Golden sands meet dramatic cliffs at Runkerry Beach, a scenic gem on Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast, perfect for walks and experienced surfers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings or late afternoons

Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Runkerry Beach - Image 1

Runkerry Beach

Best Time

Early mornings or late afternoons

Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Golden sands meet dramatic cliffs at Runkerry Beach, a scenic gem on Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast, perfect for walks and experienced surfers.

4.8
(90 reviews)

"A stunning stretch of golden sand on Northern Ireland's north coast with dramatic scenery."

Vertical photo
TIP

⚠️ Respect the Riptides

No swimming allowed due to strong currents. Enjoy the views and walks instead!

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Utilize the Portballintrae car park for free access to the beach.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sands and Coastal Views

Golden Sands and Coastal Views

Northern Ireland's North Coast

A stunning stretch of golden sand framed by dramatic headlands and distant Giant's Causeway views. Perfect for walks.

Instagram
Surfer's Paradise

Surfer's Paradise

Runkerry Beach

Experience the thrill of strong waves and challenging currents, ideal for experienced surfers.

Reddit
Scenic Walk to Giant's Causeway

Scenic Walk to Giant's Causeway

Runkerry Beach to Giant's Causeway

Enjoy a free, approximately 8km walk to the Giant's Causeway, bypassing the visitor center.

Reddit
Portballintrae Village Charm

Portballintrae Village Charm

Portballintrae

Explore this charming seaside village with its own harbor, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Currents

Runkerry Beach is known for strong riptides, making it unsuitable for swimming. Experienced surfers may find the waves exhilarating, but caution is paramount. Always check local conditions before entering the water. Reddit

Parking and Access

While there's a car park near Runkerry Beach, be aware it might be private. The Portballintrae car park adjacent to the beach offers free parking and access via a footbridge and sand dunes. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings or late afternoons
Why
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Low tide
Why
Explore rock pools
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunny days
Why
Vibrant scenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#bayviewhotel #portballintrae @causewaycoastalroute #norniron
@timmymallett
1.3K likes • 35.6K views

⚠️ Respect the Riptides

No swimming allowed due to strong currents. Enjoy the views and walks instead! InstagramReddit

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Utilize the Portballintrae car park for free access to the beach. Reddit

What a beautiful sunny blue sky day for a 10 mile walk along the coast. Portrush to Giant’s Causeway and back #10milewalk #magheracrossviewpoint #dunlucecastle #portballintrae #giantscauseway #causewaycoastalroute #purplegillianchats #purplegillianstours #northernireland
@purplegillian
1.3K likes • 13.4K views
Sun-kissed with beach vibes. Always happiest at the North Coast. #northcoast #beachdays #beachvibes #summerholidays #northcoastandglens #portballintrae #runkerry #runkerrybeach #bushfootstrand #northernireland
jillianhenning
21 likes • 681 views

🚶‍♀️ Walk to Giant's Causeway

A scenic and free 8km walk to the Giant's Causeway is a great option. Reddit

🥪 Post-Beach Snack

Grab a delicious grilled cheese from the Mini Maegden caravan. Reddit

Runkerry Beach, Bush river (blackbush) Bushmills. Northern Ireland’s ‘most energetic beach’ - how do they measure that?
_kdmusic
13 likes • 293 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⚠️ Respect the Riptides

No swimming allowed due to strong currents. Enjoy the views and walks instead! InstagramReddit

🚗 Free Parking Nearby

Utilize the Portballintrae car park for free access to the beach. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk to Giant's Causeway

A scenic and free 8km walk to the Giant's Causeway is a great option. Reddit

🥪 Post-Beach Snack

Grab a delicious grilled cheese from the Mini Maegden caravan. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly (Check Rules)

Generally clean with little waste, but always check local dog policies. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Breathtaking coastal beauty perfect for photography. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(90 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Runkerry Beach is praised for its stunning golden sands, dramatic coastal scenery, and suitability for experienced surfers. Visitors appreciate the free parking and the scenic walk to the Giant's Causeway. However, the strong riptides make it unsafe for swimming, which is a significant drawback for many. InstagramReddit

"Be aware that there is a car park at the Google location of Runkerry Beach but it is private. Also no swimming on this beach due to riptides."

Roseanne Smith

"Runkerry Beach, also known as Bushfoot Strand, is a stunning stretch of golden sand on Northern Ireland's north coast. Dramatic scenery surrounds the beach, with the imposing Runkerry Headland on one side and a glimpse of the Giant's Causeway in the distance.

This beach is a paradise for surfers. The strong waves and currents make it a challenge, but for experienced surfers, it's a thrill. However, swimmers should be very cautious. The same strong currents pose a serious risk, and there are no lifeguards.

Despite the swimming restrictions, Runkerry Beach is a great spot for a walk. Explore the rock pools at low tide, watch the surfers tackle the waves, or simply admire the breathtaking views.

For a post-beach treat, you can grab a delicious grilled cheese sandwich from the nearby Mini Maegden caravan."

Jaldeep Patel

"The Runkerry beach offers a beautiful scenery if you wish to take a walk to visit giant's causeway FOR FREE, far from its over publicized and over expensive visitor centre. Approx 8km total walk. Parking at Runkerry beach is fee of cost (August 2024)"

Elisa Flora Bezze

What People Like

Beautiful golden sands
Dramatic coastal views
Great for experienced surfers

What People Dislike

Unsafe for swimming (riptides)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Runkerry Beach is located near Portballintrae on the Causeway Coast. You can drive and park at the Portballintrae car park, which offers free parking and access to the beach via a footbridge. Reddit Some visitors arrive via bus or train to nearby Portrush and then travel onward. TikTok

Yes, there is free car parking available in the Portballintrae car park adjacent to the beach. Be aware that a car park at the Google location of Runkerry Beach itself might be private. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to walk along the coast from Portrush to Runkerry Beach, which is part of the scenic Causeway Coastal Route. This walk can be combined with a visit to the Giant's Causeway. TikTok

From Belfast, you can drive approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Portballintrae and Runkerry Beach. Alternatively, you can take a train to Coleraine and then a bus or taxi to the coast. TikTok

Public transport options are available, with buses serving the Portballintrae area. You might need to combine bus travel with a short walk or taxi ride. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Runkerry Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. Access is free, and the Portballintrae car park is also free to use. Reddit

The beach itself is free to access. Parking at the Portballintrae car park is also free. Reddit

Runkerry Beach is accessible at all times, as it is a natural coastal area. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

There is no dedicated visitor center at Runkerry Beach. The nearest major visitor attraction is the Giant's Causeway, which has its own visitor center. Reddit

No booking is necessary for Runkerry Beach as it is a natural attraction. You can simply visit at your leisure. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

No, swimming is not recommended at Runkerry Beach due to strong riptides and currents. The beach is more suited for experienced surfers and for walking. InstagramReddit

You can enjoy scenic walks, explore rock pools at low tide, watch surfers, and admire the dramatic coastal scenery. It's also a great spot for photography. InstagramReddit

Yes, public toilets are available at the Portballintrae car park adjacent to the beach. Reddit

While children might enjoy the large sand dunes to run down, the strong currents make it unsafe for swimming. Supervised exploration of the beach and dunes is possible. Reddit

You can observe various birdlife, including Oystercatchers and Plovers. The sea itself often looks clean and vibrant. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly on Runkerry Beach. However, the nearby village of Portballintrae has options, and the Mini Maegden caravan offers grilled cheese sandwiches. TikTokReddit

The Bayview Hotel in Portballintrae is a popular spot for lunch and dinner, known for its views and food. TikTok You can also find cafes and restaurants in the nearby town of Portrush. TikTok

Yes, Runkerry Beach is a great spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Instagram

Portballintrae offers a range of dining options, from hotel restaurants like the Bayview Hotel serving lunch and dinner, to casual spots. TikTok

Dining options vary in price. The Bayview Hotel's lunch menu is noted as reasonably priced. TikTok Exploring local cafes can offer more budget-friendly choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Runkerry Beach offers stunning opportunities to photograph the golden sands, rolling waves, dramatic headlands, and the coastline stretching towards the Giant's Causeway. Instagram+1

Sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful golden light for photography. Overcast days can also create dramatic moods for capturing the rugged coastal scenery. TikTok

While you can see a glimpse of the Giant's Causeway in the distance from Runkerry Beach, it's not the primary viewpoint for close-up photography of the formations. Reddit

The Runkerry Headland itself offers elevated views. Nearby viewpoints like Gortmore Viewpoint also provide excellent photographic perspectives of the coastline. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sea and sky. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Runkerry Beach offers a beautiful setting for families, though swimming is not advised due to strong currents. Reddit Children can enjoy running down the large sand dunes and exploring the beach at low tide for rock pools. Reddit The nearby Portballintrae village provides a charming atmosphere for a stroll. TikTok Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Instagram

For a safe and engaging experience, focus on beachcombing, sandcastle building, and enjoying the vast open space. The walk to the Giant's Causeway is also a family-friendly adventure, offering a chance to stretch legs and see a world-famous natural wonder. Reddit

🏄‍♀️ Surfers and Adventure Seekers

Runkerry Beach is a prime spot for experienced surfers looking for challenging waves and strong currents. Its reputation as an 'energetic beach' draws those who appreciate a more demanding surf. Instagram

While the waves are a draw, safety is paramount. Due to significant riptides, swimming is strongly discouraged. Reddit Surfers should be highly skilled and aware of the conditions. For those seeking adventure beyond surfing, the dramatic coastal scenery and the walk to the Giant's Causeway offer a different kind of thrill. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts

Runkerry Beach is a haven for walkers, offering stunning coastal paths and a chance to connect with nature. The beach itself is perfect for leisurely strolls, especially at low tide when rock pools are exposed. Reddit

The scenic 8km walk to the Giant's Causeway is a highlight, providing breathtaking views of the coastline and a rewarding way to experience the area. Reddit Birdwatchers can also find enjoyment here, with various seabirds often spotted along the shore. Reddit The dramatic landscapes and the clean sea air make it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Portballintrae and Runkerry

Portballintrae, the charming village adjacent to Runkerry Beach, holds a unique place in history. It is noted as the only location in Ireland to be attacked and bombed during World War I. German U-boats patrolled the North Atlantic, and on one occasion, a merchant ship was spotted and fired upon. TikTok

The Runkerry Headland, which frames the beach, adds to the dramatic landscape. Historically, this area has been a point of interest for its natural beauty and strategic coastal position. The beach itself, also known as Bushfoot Strand, has been a popular spot for locals and visitors for generations, offering a more tranquil alternative to some of the busier nearby attractions. Instagram+1

Today, Runkerry Beach and Portballintrae are appreciated for their scenic beauty and the peaceful atmosphere they offer, providing a glimpse into both the natural splendor and the historical resilience of the Northern Ireland coast. TikTokInstagram

Surfing and Water Safety at Runkerry Beach

Runkerry Beach is renowned among surfers for its powerful waves and challenging currents. The 'most energetic beach' moniker hints at the dynamic conditions that experienced surfers seek out for a thrilling ride. Instagram

However, these same conditions make Runkerry Beach unsafe for casual swimming. The presence of strong riptides poses a significant risk, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Visitors are strongly advised to heed the 'no swimming' signs and prioritize safety. Reddit For those interested in surfing, it's crucial to be an experienced surfer or to go with local guides who understand the sea conditions. Reddit

While swimming is off the table for most, the beach remains a fantastic location to watch skilled surfers navigate the waves, offering an exciting spectacle for onlookers. Reddit

Exploring the Causeway Coast from Runkerry Beach

Runkerry Beach serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Causeway Coast. Its location offers convenient access to some of Northern Ireland's most iconic natural landmarks. TikTok

A popular and free activity is the scenic walk to the Giant's Causeway. This approximately 8km round trip allows visitors to experience the coastline at their own pace, enjoying the views and avoiding the crowds and fees associated with the main visitor center. Reddit Other notable attractions within easy reach include Dunluce Castle, a dramatic medieval fortress perched on a clifftop, and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, offering thrilling views over the sea. Instagram

Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque village of Portballintrae itself, with its harbor and local amenities, making Runkerry Beach a well-rounded destination for both relaxation and exploration. TikTokInstagram

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