Benone Strand, Limavady, Co. Derry - Gardiner Mitchell Image courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

Discover the Beauty of Benone Strand in County Derry, Northern Ireland

If you're planning a trip to Northern Ireland, make sure to add Benone Strand to your itinerary. Located on the Causeway Coastal Route, this seven-mile stretch of golden sand beach offers stunning views of Benevenagh Mountain, Lough Foyle, and Donegal. Benone Strand is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its multiple Blue Flag and Seaside Awards.

Aside from the usual seaside activities such as swimming, picnicking, and fishing, Benone Strand is also a haven for nature lovers. The entire area is a paradise for the study of botany, entomology, and shells, with a wide range of wildlife living on the beach, dunes, and shore. The beach and dunelands fall within the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), as well as the Magilligan Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI).

Benone Strand is also a great destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, with activities such as jet skiing, kite surfing, gliding, and surfing. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can fish, canoe, cycle, swim, or walk along the boardwalk to Benone Tourist Complex, where you can enjoy tennis, an outdoor heated splash pool, and a wide range of events during the summer.

Facilities at Benone Strand include toilets, parking, disabled toilets and parking, zoned activity areas for swimming, jet skis, dogs, etc., and a coffee dock within The Ark building at the entrance to the beach. Dogs are allowed on Benone Strand with restrictions during high season, and there is a seasonal RNLI Beach Lifeguards Service during July and August.

If you're looking for things to do nearby, don't miss Downhill Beach, Benone Strand's neighbor, which features an 18th-century mansion, Mussenden Temple, and the ruins of a chapel. You can also explore the nearby towns of Limavady and Castlerock, which offer a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

For those interested in history, Mussenden Temple is a must-visit attraction. This 18th-century temple was built as a summer library by the Earl Bishop of Derry and sits on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The temple is said to have been modeled after the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy, and offers stunning views of the coastline.

For adventure seekers, there are plenty of activities to choose from near Benone Strand. The nearby town of Castlerock offers excellent opportunities for horse riding and golfing. Meanwhile, the nearby town of Limavady is known for its kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

If you're looking for a more relaxing activity, you can take a walk along the boardwalk to Benone Tourist Complex, where you can enjoy an outdoor heated splash pool, tennis, and other leisurely activities. You can also enjoy a coffee or snack at the coffee dock within The Ark building at the entrance to the beach.

In conclusion, Benone Strand, County Derry is a must-visit destination in Northern Ireland, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure sports, and leisurely activities for all ages. With its stunning views, multiple Blue Flag and Seaside Awards, and wide range of facilities, Benone Strand is an ideal location for a day trip or a longer stay. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or take part in some adventure sports, Benone Strand has something for everyone.