Portrush West Strand Beach - Chris Hill Photographic Image courtesy Ireland's Content Pool

Experience Portrush West Strand Beach: A Bustling Seaside Haven

Unwind at Portrush West Strand Beach, a lively resort with top-notch facilities and activities nearby.

Located along the picturesque Portstewart Road in Portrush, Co. Antrim, Portrush West Strand Beach, also known as West Bay or Millstrand, is a bustling seaside resort perfect for families and beachgoers alike. This popular destination is nestled between the town's busy harbor to the north and a pedestrian/cycle promenade to the east, providing easy access to and from the town center and its wide array of amenities and services.

Visitors to West Strand Beach should pay close attention to safety signage and follow the advice of lifeguards during the season. The beach boasts an array of facilities, including:

Free car parking

Dog-friendly (restrictions apply from 1st May to 30th September)

Lifeguard service (July & August)

Toilets

Cycle parking

Coffee shops, restaurants, shops, and amusements nearby

The beach is also accessible for users with limited mobility, offering disabled toilets, disabled parking, and a concrete pedestrian access ramp onto the beach at its northern end. With excellent water quality and the prestigious Blue Flag Award, Portrush West Strand Beach ensures a delightful experience for all visitors.

One unique aspect of West Strand Beach is its Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) designation, which protects the buried peat deposits and ancient sands beneath the beach. These deposits contain fossilized remains of alder and birch trees that populated the area between 9,000 and 7,000 years ago. Additionally, keep an eye out for the resident pod of harbor porpoises just off the shore, adding an element of enchantment to your beach experience.

While visiting Portrush West Beach, consider exploring some of the nearby attractions and activities:

Stroll along the scenic Portstewart Promenade, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride

Play a round of golf at the renowned Royal Portrush Golf Club

Visit the captivating ruins of Dunluce Castle, perched on the edge of a cliff

Discover the natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Embark on a sea safari to spot dolphins, seals, and other marine life

Whether you're looking to relax on the golden sands, take a leisurely walk or bike ride, or explore the rich history and nature of the surrounding area, this beach offers something for everyone. Its lively atmosphere, top-notch facilities, and nearby attractions make it an ideal destination for a memorable seaside escape.