Whitepark Bay is a broad, sweeping sand beach on the North Antrim coast between two headlands, with genuinely old archaeological roots and a quieter, less commercial feel than the Causeway Coast’s better-known beaches.
The Beach
Swimming is not recommended due to dangerous rip currents in this stretch of the North Atlantic - the beach suits walking, relaxing, and wildlife-watching rather than water activities. Cows graze directly on the beach as part of a National Trust conservation grazing programme, helping maintain the grassland habitat for wildflowers and a resident rabbit population. Dogs are permitted.
History
Archaeological evidence points to Neolithic settlement here, among the earliest in Ireland. A passage grave at the site reportedly aligns with the sun on the Midsummer Solstice. Templastragh Church, near Portbradden, was founded by St Gobhan.
Wildlife
At least nine orchid species have been recorded here, alongside regular sightings of otters, porpoises, and dolphins offshore, and seabirds including guillemots, eiders, and oystercatchers.
Walking
A clifftop walk from the car park to the beach runs about 1.4 miles each way, with coastal views and an ancient cairn at the bay’s eastern end.
Nearby
Ballintoy Harbour, at the bay’s eastern end - a working harbour built from the 18th century, also a Game of Thrones filming location - has a tea room and toilets. Dunseverick Castle, first fortified in the 5th century (see this site’s dedicated Dunseverick Castle guide for full history), and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge are both a short distance away.
Getting There
By car via the B146 (Bushmills-Ballycastle road), around 1 hour 15 minutes from Belfast. The Causeway Rambler bus service (Ulsterbus 252) and the Bushmills-Carrick-a-Rede route (Ulsterbus 376) both stop at Whitepark Bay on request. Free car parking is available but limited - arrive early on busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Whitepark Bay? Not recommended - dangerous rip currents.
Is it dog-friendly? Yes.
