Portrush Harbour and Promenade
A vibrant seaside town on the Causeway Coast, offering a picturesque harbour, scenic promenade, and access to dramatic cliffs and beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny skies & fewer crowds
Portrush Harbour and Promenade
Best Time
Sunny skies & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant seaside town on the Causeway Coast, offering a picturesque harbour, scenic promenade, and access to dramatic cliffs and beaches.
"Brilliant place for pictures and boat watching and a very good restaurant aswell!"
🎣 Family Fishing Fun
Enjoy mackerel fishing trips from the harbour for an unforgettable family experience. Catch your own dinner! :fishing_pole:
🍦 Sweet Treats on the Coast
Grab delicious ice cream from Cream of the Coast at Magheracross Viewpoint between Portrush and Bushmills. :ice_cream:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Portrush Harbour
Portrush
A picturesque working harbor, perfect for boat watching and soaking in the coastal atmosphere. Great for photos!
Portrush Promenade
Portrush
Ideal for leisurely strolls with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby beaches. Enjoy the sea breeze!
Whiterocks Beach
East of Portrush
Dramatic white chalk cliffs meet the sea, offering breathtaking scenery and opportunities for coastal walks.
Curry's Funpark (Barry's)
Portrush Promenade
A classic seaside amusement park offering thrills and family fun right on the promenade.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Family Fishing Fun
Enjoy mackerel fishing trips from the harbour for an unforgettable family experience. Catch your own dinner! :fishing_pole:
🍦 Sweet Treats on the Coast
Grab delicious ice cream from Cream of the Coast at Magheracross Viewpoint between Portrush and Bushmills. +1 :ice_cream:
🚶♀️ Coastal Walks Galore
Explore the stunning Causeway Coastline, including Whiterocks Beach and the walk towards Dunluce Castle. +1 :hiking_boot:
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Check out The Harbour Bar for live music on Sundays and a great atmosphere. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Family Fishing Fun
Enjoy mackerel fishing trips from the harbour for an unforgettable family experience. Catch your own dinner! :fishing_pole:
🍦 Sweet Treats on the Coast
Grab delicious ice cream from Cream of the Coast at Magheracross Viewpoint between Portrush and Bushmills. +1 :ice_cream:
🚶♀️ Coastal Walks Galore
Explore the stunning Causeway Coastline, including Whiterocks Beach and the walk towards Dunluce Castle. +1 :hiking_boot:
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Check out The Harbour Bar for live music on Sundays and a great atmosphere. :musical_note:
🚗 Scenic Drives
Portrush is a key stop on the Causeway Coastal Route, perfect for road trips. +1 :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Portrush Harbour and Promenade for its beautiful coastal scenery, lively atmosphere, and family-friendly activities like fishing trips. The area is noted for its picturesque harbour, great photo opportunities, and proximity to other North Coast attractions. Some find it less charming than neighbouring Portstewart, but overall, it's a well-loved seaside destination.
"We had an amazing 3-hour family experience mackerel fishing in Portrush Harbor! The trip was well organized, safe, and really enjoyable for all ages. We caught loads of mackerel, which made it even more exciting, and the views of the harbor and coastline were beautiful. A fantastic way to spend time together as a family — highly recommended for anyone visiting Portrush!"
Liju
"Nice enough place for a wander but didn't think it quite had the appeal of neighbouring Portstewart. A large cruise ship was anchored offshore when we visited."
Chris Kinnersley
"Brilliant place for pictures and boat watching and a very good restaurant aswell!"
Dylan Cochrane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Portrush is easily accessible by car via the A26 and A29 roads. Public transport options include bus services from Coleraine and Derry/Londonderry. The nearest train station is in Coleraine, with onward bus connections. +1
Yes, there are several car parks available near the harbour and promenade, though they can get busy during peak times. Consider parking slightly further out and enjoying a walk. :parking:
Yes, it's a scenic walk along the coast from Portrush towards Dunluce Castle, approximately 3-4 miles. You can also drive or take a bus. +1
Absolutely! Portrush is a fantastic stop along the world-renowned Causeway Coastal Route, offering stunning views and access to many attractions.
Many visitors use Portrush as a base for exploring the North Coast. Renting a car offers the most flexibility, but local bus tours are also available. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the harbour and promenade are public spaces and free to access. Some attractions within the area, like Curry's Funpark, will require tickets.
Whiterocks Beach itself is free to access. Parking at designated areas nearby may incur a small fee during peak season. :moneywithwings:
Prices for mackerel fishing trips can vary, but reviews suggest they are reasonably priced for a 3-hour family experience, often around £8 per person. It's best to book in advance.
The Harbour Bar is typically open daily from 12 pm until late, with live music on Sundays starting at 3 pm.
Yes, Old Bushmills Distillery offers tours and tastings, which require booking and payment. It's a popular nearby attraction.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can watch boats, enjoy the sea air, take photos, and embark on mackerel fishing trips. It's a great spot for a relaxed wander.
The harbour, the promenade with its sea views, and the dramatic cliffs at Whiterocks Beach are all excellent for photography.
Yes, Curry's Funpark offers rides and games. Mackerel fishing trips are also very popular with families.
Keep an eye out for seabirds along the coast. During boat trips, you might spot seals or even dolphins. :dolphin:
The promenade is generally accessible, but some areas of the harbour might have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check specific access points if mobility is a concern.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Portrush has a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs like The Harbour Bar +1 to restaurants with sea views. Many places offer fresh seafood.
Yes, 'Cream of the Coast' is a popular ice cream trailer located at Magheracross Viewpoint, between Portrush and Bushmills. +2
Freshly caught seafood, particularly mackerel, is a local specialty. Don't miss trying some traditional fish and chips. :fishandchips:
Many establishments cater to families, offering varied menus and a welcoming atmosphere. Curry's Funpark also has food stalls.
Most restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan choices. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for the harbour and coastline. Overcast days can also create dramatic moods. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for boat details or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sea. :camerawithflash:
The promenade, the harbour walls, and the viewpoints overlooking Whiterocks Beach offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. Always check for any restrictions, especially around populated areas and the harbour, before flying. :drone:
The combination of a working harbour, dramatic coastal scenery, and the nearby iconic landmarks like Dunluce Castle makes it a photographer's dream.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For an active adventure, consider a mackerel fishing trip from the harbour; it's a highly recommended and engaging activity for all ages, with a good chance of catching fish! Take a stroll along the Portrush Promenade and enjoy the sea air. A visit to Whiterocks Beach is also a must, where kids can explore the sandy shores and marvel at the dramatic white cliffs.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, look for local chip shops or grab an ice cream from Cream of the Coast.
couples
Sip on a drink at The Harbour Bar and enjoy the local atmosphere, perhaps catching some live music on a Sunday.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Causeway Coast from Portrush
Further along the route, discover the breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (though some find it pricey for the experience
For those interested in local heritage, a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, is a must.
Portrush Harbour: A Hub of Activity
The harbour area is also a great place for a leisurely stroll, offering excellent views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a prime location for boat watching and capturing some fantastic photographs, especially with the colourful boats against the backdrop of the sea.
The atmosphere here is quintessentially coastal, with the salty air and the cries of seagulls adding to the charm.Adjacent to the harbour, you'll find lively establishments like The Harbour Bar, known for its welcoming atmosphere and live music on Sundays.
The Allure of the Portrush Promenade
The promenade is particularly enjoyable during sunrise or sunset, when the light casts a magical glow over the water and the sky.Running alongside the promenade is Curry's Funpark (Barry's), a beloved amusement park that adds a touch of classic seaside fun.
It's a nostalgic spot for many and provides entertainment for all ages with its rides and games. The combination of the serene promenade and the lively amusement park creates a unique and vibrant atmosphere.Walking along the promenade, you can easily access different parts of Portrush, including the harbour and the path leading towards Whiterocks Beach.
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