Causeway Coastal Route Itinerary (30 Stops For The Ultimate Trip)
Last Updated: December 19 2023
There’s no denying that Ireland is a beautiful country, but the question is which part do you visit – the Republic or Northern Ireland?
Truthfully, both of them are just as spectacular as each other. However, if you’re wanting to visit the iconic Giant’s Causeway then it’s Northern Ireland you’ll need to visit.
The best way to explore this part of the world is by road-tripping the Causeway Coastal Route as it will take you past some of the most scenic places Northern Ireland has to offer!
So, let’s take a look at the must-visit stops along this Causeway Coastal Route.
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Important Information about the Causeway Coastal Route
Where Does the Causeway Coastal Route start and finish?
The Causeway Coastal route starts in Belfast and ends in Londonderry. However, it doesn’t really matter where you start – it all depends on convenience.
Many people choose to fly into Belfast and hire a car to do the coastal route. If you’re travelling from the United Kingdom then you can also catch the ferry over to Belfast and bring your own vehicle.
How Long is the Causeway Coastal Route?
The Causeway Coastal route is one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever do and is an impressive 130 miles (212 km) long.
What’s a Suitable Timeframe for Completing this Route?
If you’re short on time you can drive the majority of the route in one day. However, you’ll miss out on many of the awesome attractions if you decide to do this.
For the best experience, we’d recommend at least 5-6 days so you can split up the road trip! A great way to do the Causeway Coastal Route is by staying halfway between Belfast and Londonderry so both ends of the route are easily accessible.
The Ultimate Causeway Coastal Route Itinerary: 30 Places You NEED To Visit
Here’s a Causeway Coastal Route map to give you an idea of where you’ll find all the below locations.
1. Belfast
Time needed to explore: 5-6 hours
The Causeway Coastal Route starts off in Belfast so it’s only fitting to spend some time exploring the capital of Northern Ireland.
Although Belfast is known for the violence that occurred during ‘the troubles’ it’s got so much more to offer. With a fantastic arts scene, great nightlife, and plenty of awesome things to do – Belfast isn’t a place that you want to miss off your itinerary.
Some of the best places to visit in the city include St George’s Market, the Botanic Gardens, Crumlin Road Gaol, and the Ulster Museum!
However, your first stop should be the famous Titanic Museum! This Museum tells the story of the RMS Titanic that unfortunately sank in 1912 after colliding with an iceberg.
For the best experience make sure you get an early start so you’ve got at least 5-6 hours exploring the city. You can also add an extra day to your trip so you can take your time!
2. Carrickfergus Castle
Distance from the previous destination: 10.7 miles (17.2 km) | 20-minute drive
Time needed to explore: 1-2 hours
The next stop on your Causeway Coastal Route itinerary should be Carrickfergus Castle!
Situated in County Antrim, this spectacular castle is found along the shores of Belfast Lough. It’s a Norman Castle that’s been around for over 800 years and is a rather impressive sight.
Over the centuries, Carrickfergus Castle has been besieged by the Scottish, Irish, English, and French so it’s got quite the history.
To this day, it’s still one of the best-preserved medieval structures in the country and isn’t a place you want to miss!
The castle is home to plenty of historical displays and you’ll get to see canons that date back to the 17th century. For this reason, make sure you allow at least an hour for your visit. You won’t want to be rushing around.
3. The Gobbins Cliff Path
Distance from the previous destination: 8.6 miles (13.8 km) | 17-minute drive
Time needed to explore: 3 hours
As you travel along the Causeway Coastal Route you’ll want to head to The Gobbins Cliff Path.
It’s one of the most dramatic coastal walks in Europe and you’ll need relatively high fitness levels to attempt it so just keep that in mind.
If you’re looking to challenge yourself during your trip to Northern Ireland then look no further…
The Gobbins is a 3-mile (5 km) walk that will take you along the cliff face, over several metal bridges, down caves, and through tunnels. You’ll also get to admire the views from the Clifftop Viewpoint where you’ll get to see Heddles Port, Kraken Cave, and the Seven Sisters Caves.
Along the way, you’ll get breathtaking views of the North Channel. You might even get to spot dolphins, porpoises, and seals if you’re lucky!
4. Glenarm Castle
Distance from the previous destination: 22.4 miles (36 km) | 40-minute drive
Time needed to explore: 1-2 hours
Depending on how long you spent in Belfast you may be starting your next day with Glenarm Castle. Either way, you’ll want to allow at least an hour here so you can explore the castle and wander around the gardens.
Glenarm Castle attracts over 100,000 people every year so it’s another popular spot along this Northern Ireland coastal road. It’s actually one of the only country estates in the world that’s open to the public. However, it’s still privately owned.
As well as the castle itself, there are plenty of other things to do at Glenarm Castle. You can explore the Walled garden, wander along the castle trail, or visit the Antrim McDonnell Heritage Centre.
Depending on the time of year, there are also plenty of events held here so make sure you check the website before you visit.
5. Glenariff Forest Park
Distance from the previous destination: 17.1 miles (27.5 km) | 32-minute drive
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Covering over 1,000 hectares of land; Glenariff Forest Park is one of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland if you’re looking to get up close to nature.
It boasts diverse landscapes ranging from planted woodland to lakes and you’ll find plenty of things to do here! Popular activities include horse riding and hiking as there are lots of awesome trails in the surrounding area.
You’ll have endless choices of trails to choose from but here are a couple of options:
- The Viewpoint Trail – 0.6 miles (1 km)
- The Waterfall Walk Trail – 1.86 miles (3 km)
- The Scenic Trail – 5.5 miles (8.9 km)
Although Glenariff Forest Park isn’t located along the Causeway Coastal Road it’s worth the detour. You can turn off at Glenariff and from there it’s just a 12-minute drive. Afterwards, you can then head back on the coastal road!
6. The Glens of Antrim
Distance from the previous destination: 6.1 miles (9.8 km) | 12-minute drive
Time needed: 1-2 hours (or you can simply just drive through and admire the views)
The Nine Glens of Antrim or ‘The Glens’ as they’re otherwise known is an area of outstanding beauty. This area is a major tourist attraction along the Causeway Coastal Route and is a place that you don’t want to miss.
You don’t need to visit all of these glens so the time you spend here will all depend on where you visit!
To break down the options you’ve got Glenarm and Glenarriff that we’ve already mentioned as well as Glencloy, Glencorp, Glenballyemon, Glanaan, Glendun, Glenshesk, and Glentaisie. Now that’s a lot of names we know…
If you don’t want to take a detour then Glenarm and Glenariff are found along the Causeway Coastal Route so you can simply admire the views as you drive along.
7. Cushendall Beach
Distance from the previous destination: 2.9 miles (4.6 km) | 8-minute drive
Time needed: 15 minutes
Cushendall Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in the area and you’ll find it next to the small village of Cushendall. Although it’s only small, you don’t want to miss out on visiting here – especially if it’s a clear day.
Not only will you get to enjoy the blue waters, but you’ll get some pretty spectacular views too! The beach is surrounded by mountains and lush rolling hills so is the perfect spot to take a break.
Cushendall Beach is easily accessible as there’s a car park here and there’s a toilet block too.
There are plenty of fantastic places to visit along the Causeway Coast in Ireland. For this reason, we’d recommend only spending around 15 minutes here as there’s not a lot to see other than the views.
8. Cushendun Caves
Distance from the previous destination: 4.1 miles (6.6 km) | 12-minute drive
Time needed: 30 minutes
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan like us then make sure you add Cushendun Caves to your Causeway Coastal Route itinerary!
These caves were formed over 400 million years ago so they’ve got quite a history. The best part about visiting them? Entry is FREE so you can wander around at your own leisure!
With the proximity of the ocean, the dramatic landscapes all around you, and the epic views; this place will honestly take your breath away.
Although not as popular as other locations in this guide, Cushendun Caves are starting to gain traction with tourists after being used as a filming location on Game of Thrones. Spoiler alert, this is the site where Melisandre gives birth to her strange shadow baby!
For the best experience, try to visit these caves on a clear day and when the conditions are relatively calm.
9. Torr Head
Distance from the previous destination: 6.9 miles (11.1 km) | 22-minute drive
Time needed: 30 minutes
As you make your way around the coast road you’ll come to Torr Head which is technically the closest point to Scotland. This rugged coastline offers stunning views across to the Mull of Kintyre if you visit on a clear day.
To reach Torr Head from Cushendun you’ll drive along the Torr Head Scenic Route so take your time and enjoy the views. You’ll then come to a small car park where you can park before walking up to the headland.
What’s interesting about this place is that it used to be an old salmon port. Unfortunately, overfishing and changes in conditions caused the salmon numbers to decline.
From Torr Head, you can take a quick detour to Murlough Bay if you wish before heading to the next stop on this itinerary!
10. Fair Head
Distance from the previous destination: 6.1 miles (9.8 km) | 17-minute drive
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
If you only visit a couple of places along the Causeway Coast then make sure Fairhead is one of them! It’s not one of the most popular sites on this itinerary which only adds to the experience.
The lane up to the car park is relatively narrow and it’s not a car park as such; it’s just a farmer’s yard with an honesty box and a sign to show you the different trail options.
There are a couple of routes you can take but we recommend hiking along the most direct one. This will get you to the cliff edge much quicker and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and Rathlin Island.
Another fun fact about Fairhead is that these cliffs were used as a filming location in Game of Thrones! You may recognise them as the Dragonstone Cliffs so technically we’ve stood in the footsteps of the ‘Mother of Dragons’ eeek!
11. Ballycastle
Distance from the previous destination: 5.3 miles (8.5 km) | 12-minute drive
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Ballycastle is a popular spot along the Northern Ireland Causeway Coastal route. It’s situated halfway between Belfast and Londonderry so is where many people choose to base themselves.
This small seaside town is primarily known for being the gateway to Rathlin Island which we’ll talk about in a minute! However, it’s also surrounded by ancient glens and lush forests so it’s not a place you want to miss.
As well as visiting Rathlin Island, there are plenty of other things to do in Ballycastle. This includes visiting Ballycastle Beach, wandering around the marina, and admiring the views from Pans Rock.
Ballycastle is also home to over 50 listed buildings so take some time to wander around the town and see them for yourself.
You won’t need more than a couple of hours here but if you’re planning to visit Rathlin island then you may want to add an extra day to your itinerary!
12. Rathlin Island
Distance from the previous destination: 25-35 minutes via ferry
Time needed: 4-5 hours (if you can add on an extra day to your itinerary, then you could easily spend more time on Rathlin)
As we mentioned previously Rathlin Island can be reached by ferry from Ballycastle and there are two options. You’ve got the passenger-only ferry that takes around 25 minutes and the car ferry that takes around 35 minutes.
For more information, you can check out the Rathlin Island ferry website!
Northern Ireland is full of rugged landscapes but this island is truly something special! It’s located just six miles away from the mainland and you’ll find plenty of things to do here.
First of all, you’ll want to spend some time wildlife watching. April to July is puffin season so you’ve got a great chance of spotting these colourful seabirds. Resident seals can also be seen along the shores towards Mill Bay.
There are plenty of awesome places to visit on the island too including Rathlin West Lighthouse and the West Light Seabird Centre. You can also hike some of the trails if you’ve got the time or head out on a guided walk if you’ve booked in advance.
13. Kinbane Castle
Distance from the previous destination: 2.9 miles (4.7 km) | 6-minute drive
Time needed: 30 minutes – 1 hour
During your time in Northern Ireland, you should head to Kinbane Castle! It’s one of the most unique castles in the country and there’s plenty of parking here so it’s easily accessible too.
The castle is situated on a headland and its name translates to ‘white head’ after the limestone cliffs that it’s located upon. Kinbane Castle has got quite a history as it’s been around since the mid-1500s.
Originally, the castle was two storeys high but it was damaged in the 1550s due to English sieges. Although it was rebuilt, it later fell into disarray. Unfortunately, today there’s not much of it left.
However, Kinbane Castle is still worth a visit. In fact, if you’re lucky you might even get this spot all to yourself depending on the time of year you visit! There’s not a lot to do here so you won’t need a lot of time but the scenery is pretty spectacular.
14. Carrick-a-Rede
Distance from the previous destination: 4.1 miles (6.6 km) | 9-minute drive
Time needed: 1-2 hours
If there’s one place you need to visit whilst exploring this part of Northern Ireland it’s Carrick-a-Rede. On the way, you can stop off at Portaneevy Car Park & Viewpoint!
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge connects the mainland with the tiny island of Carrickarede and has been around since 1755. It’s suspended almost 100 ft (30 metres) above the Atlantic Ocean and from here, you’ll get breathtaking views of Ireland’s coastline.
The rope bridge was built by fishermen and its purpose was so that they could cast fishing nets over the side to catch salmon. However, today it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.
The feeling you get whilst walking over the rope bridge is exhilarating as you’ll be completely open to the elements. Honestly, this was one of our favourite places in NI and we can’t wait to go back one day!
If you’re short of time along this route then prioritise heading to this spot. Just keep in mind that this place may not be suitable for those who are scared of heights.
15. Ballintoy Harbour
Distance from the previous destination: 1.3 miles (2.1 km) | 5-minute drive
Time needed: 1 hour
Ballintoy Harbour is located near the charming village of Ballintoy but you’ll have to drive down a steep and winding road to get there. Trust us, you’ll be well rewarded when you make it to the harbour.
This is one of the most picturesque places you’ll come across along the Causeway Coast Road. However, it’s not just its beauty that this spot has to offer. There’s also a charming little cafe where you can grab a quick bite to eat.
Not only does Ballintoy Harbour have an interesting history as a fishing port but it’s become a popular spot for a whole other reason. This place actually rose to fame due to it being a filming location on the TV show Game of Thrones!
Aside from it being known as part of the ‘Iron Islands’, there are also some pretty unique cave formations here. There’s even a beach walk to the left of the cafe that you can do!
16. Ballintoy Secret Beach
Distance from the previous destination: N/A
Time needed: 15-30 minutes
While at Ballintoy Harbour, you’ll want to walk to Ballintoy Secret Beach. All you need to do is wander up the road for a couple of minutes and you’ll come across a cute house on the corner.
Next to this house, is a path that will take you down to the beach. This is the perfect time to relax and just take a beat, although you can always stay even longer if you wish.
To appreciate the beauty of the place allow at least 15 minutes to snap some photographs and appreciate the views. However, if you’re looking to kill some time then why not take a dip in the water (there’s a secluded area) or spend some time sunbathing?
You can wander along the beach but how far you can go will all depend on whether the tides are in or not. Just make sure you keep an eye on this because you don’t want to wander around the bay and get stuck!
17. Whitepark Bay Beach
Distance from the previous destination: 2.6 miles (4.2 km) | 6-minute drive
Time needed: 15-30 minutes
There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Northern Ireland but Whitepark Bay is something special. As you cruise along the Antrim Coast Road, allow some time to stop here.
Boasting spectacular sands, ancient sand dunes, and epic coastal views, it’s truly a place that you need to see to believe. Even less believable, you’ll often see cows roaming the beach and they’re popular with photographers.
The cows play an important role in the conservation work that occurs here around the dunes. These sand dunes are also home to a variety of life including butterflies, birds, and otters.
The one thing to remember is that you can’t swim here so there’s no need to pack your swimming costumes. Due to the rip currents along this beach, the waves are too dangerous so just don’t risk it.
If you’d rather not head down to the beach itself then admire the views from Whitepark Bay viewpoint instead. The scenery here is jaw-dropping and you can park up easily enough.
18. Dunseverick Castle & Falls
Distance from the previous destination: 2.1 miles (3.4 km) | 5-minute drive
Time needed: 45 minutes
Next up we have Dunseverick Castle which is another quirky spot. Like many of the castles in Ireland, there are only ruins left to explore but it’s still worth a visit.
The castle is perched on a coastal cliff so the surrounding scenery is extremely dramatic and breathtaking! You’ll also be treated to striking views of the coastline too so what’s not to like?
Aside from that, Dunseverick Castle has a rather unique history and is an important archaeological site. It dates back to around the 5th century AD, possibly even earlier, and was once an ancient royal site of the Dál Riada Gaelic kingdom.
Dunseverick Falls is another cool place to visit and although you’ll come across it first, it’s best to drive straight to the car park. From there, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the falls so you can visit both within a short amount of time.
19. Giants Causeway
Distance from the previous destination: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) | 6-minute drive
Time needed: 2-3 hours
The Giants Causeway is the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland, and arguably one of the most famous spots in Europe. This UNESCO world heritage site is a must-visit and no road trip along the Giants Causeway Coastal Route is complete without coming here.
Boasting some of the most unique landscapes on Earth, this place will take your breath away. Here, you’ll find over 40,000 basalt columns that have been around for 60 million years.
These columns were created when a flood of lava came out of the Earth which then cooled and contracted. However, there’s a legend that the causeway was actually created by giants (hence the name) which is a cooler theory in our opinion!
You’ll park at the visitor centre and then you can either walk down which takes around 15 minutes or catch the shuttle bus. While you’re wandering around down here, look out for seals swimming along the coastline as they’re pretty curious!
20. Old Bushmills Distillery
Distance from the previous destination: 2.5 miles (4 km) | 6-minute drive
Time needed: 60 minutes
One of the more quirky places to visit along this Northern Ireland coastal route is the Old Bushmills Distillery. It’s the oldest licenced whiskey distillery in the world so it’s definitely a cool place to visit.
The distillery has been around since 1608 and yet, after 400 years it’s still making whisky to this day. Luckily, it’s still being made in the same unique way with Irish barley which helps to give it its flavour!
The whisky here is among the best in the world but don’t just take our word for it. This place offers tours where you’ll get to learn how the beverage is made, and gain an in-depth understanding of the brewing process.
The tours last for around 40 minutes and then you’ll want to allow some extra time to visit the shop and maybe treat yourself to a cheeky souvenir. Or, if you’ve got more time there’s a cafe on-site.
21. Dunluce Castle
Distance from the previous destination: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) | 7-minute drive
Time needed: 30-45 minutes
Dunluce Castle is one of the most picturesque castles you’ll come across in Northern Ireland. Situated high upon a cliff, this spot offers sweeping views of the surrounding coastline.
However, it’s not just the views that make it worth a visit. Dunluce has a pretty interesting history as it dates back to the 16th century, and has been home to two feuding Irish clans! These clans were the McQuillans and MacDonnells.
It’s thought that some of the castle kitchens actually fell into the sea because of a storm, and even stranger, there are tales of a banshee within this castle.
Not only is the castle impressive from the outside but there are archaeological and historical exhibits within. These are available for public viewing but you’ll have to double-check the opening times before you come!
If the castle isn’t open for viewing, then you should head to Magheracross Viewing Point and picnic area. It’s not too far away, and you’ll get to take in the views of the castle from here.
22. Portrush Whiterocks Beach
Distance from the previous destination: 4.3 miles (6.9 km) | 11-minute drive
Time needed: 20 minutes
There are plenty of beaches along this Causeway Coastal route itinerary, but you don’t want to miss out on this one. Portrush Whiterocks Beach is accessible from the town of Portrush (if you’d not already guessed), and is the perfect place to relax.
Due to its beautiful location, it’s frequently been given the Blue Flag Award. Offering stunning views of the coastline and the perfect opportunity for water sports, it’s no wonder this beach is so famous.
There’s plenty of parking here which is handy and during the months of July and August, there’s a lifeguard stationed at Portrush Whiterocks. At certain times of the year, dogs are also allowed on the beach.
I’ve included the beach separately from the town of Portrush (which I’ll mention below) as there’s not too much to do here. There’s a cafe nearby where you can grab something to eat and you can kick back and relax, but otherwise, you’ll want to spend more time in the town itself.
23. Portrush
Distance from the previous destination: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) | 2-minute drive
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Portrush is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Northern Ireland. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, variety of restaurants, and awesome attractions!
As well as Portrush Whiterocks Beach, you’ve also got the East and West Strand. Let’s be honest though, once you’ve visited one of the beaches they all give off the same vibe. However, feel free to take a look at the other two as well.
During your time in this seaside town, you’ll want to visit Portrush Coastal Zone, wander around Curry’s Fun Park, and take a surfing lesson if you have time. Why not have a drink in the Harbour Bar too?
Just keep in mind that this town can get super busy during the summer months!
The next destination I’m going to mention can actually be accessed via the Causeway Coast Way which is a scenic walking route. However, it takes around 3 hours to get there and back so it’s best to drive if you’re short of time.
24. Portstewart
Distance from the previous destination: 3.6 miles (5.8 km) | 8-minute drive
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Portstewart is a must if you’re travelling along the Causeway Coastal Route. This is where we personally stayed during our trip to Northern Ireland, so we can 100% recommend using it as a base!
However, if you’re staying elsewhere, at least allow some time here to explore. First of all, take a walk along Kinora Terrace which leads up to Harbour Hill. The views from here are pretty impressive and you’ve also got a chance of seeing porpoises too.
Then we’d recommend wandering along the Portstewart Coastal Path which is located past the harbour. This is another great spot for views in Portstewart and there’s also a panoramic wheel nearby if you want a different perspective of the town.
Aside from these walks, there isn’t too much to do in Portstewart but there are some great coffee shops. You’ve also got a few pubs and bars to choose from, and plenty of spots where you can grab an ice cream!
25. Portstewart Strand
Distance from the previous destination: 12.5 miles (20.1 km) | 24-minute drive
Time needed: 1 hour
Portstewart Strand is one of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Ireland. Boasting two miles of golden sands and scenic views of Mussenden Temple, it’s no wonder this spot is so popular.
Aside from Portstewart Strand being well-liked with surfers and families, it’s also a great place to visit for nature. Due to its impressive sand dunes, you’re likely to see a variety of plants and insects here, including plenty of butterflies.
You only need to spend around half an hour here to explore, but we’d recommend spending longer so you can grab a drink at Harry’s Shack. This restaurant has an awesome outside area where you can admire the views, and their speciality is local seafood.
One of the best things about Portstewart Strand is that you can actually park your car on the beach. That way, you don’t have to walk far.
26. Mussenden Temple
Distance from the previous destination: 11.6 miles (18.7 km) | 22-minute drive
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Now you can actually see Mussenden Temple from two beaches in this area; Portstewart Strand and Downhill Strand. The views are rather impressive from both, but you can also get another perspective if you don’t mind paying to go in!
Mussenden Temple is a National Trust attraction so you’ll have to pay to enter. However, you pay £7.50 ($9) per car so it’s not a lot if you’re splitting the cost.
From the car park, you’ll then walk along the Downhill Demesne until you reach this spectacular place. This temple is located on the edge of a 120-foot (36.5-metre) cliff and the views from up here will take your breath away.
If it’s a clear day you might see all the way over to County Donegal and Fairhead which we’ve already mentioned in this article. It’s important to note that you can’t enter Mussenden Temple, but you can walk right up to it and hit up some of the nearby coastal walks.
27. Downhill Strand
Distance from the previous destination: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) | 2-minute drive
Time needed: 30 minutes
If you decide to walk to Mussenden Temple then you’ll only be a very short drive away from Downhill Strand. It’s actually the beach you can see from the top of the cliff but we’d recommend allowing some time to wander down here.
There’s no denying that Downhill Strand is one of the most scenic beaches in Northern Ireland. Because of this, it’s frequently awarded Blue Flag status and once you get here, you’ll understand why!
There’s not a lot to do at Downhill Strand but it’s worth sparing half an hour to walk along the beach. Not only will you get scenic views of Mussenden Temple but you’ll get to see an old railway tunnel that’s been carved into the cliffside.
Aside from its beauty, Downhill Beach has another draw to it! The beach was actually used as a filming location in the popular TV show Game of Thrones. If you don’t remember, then think back to the scene on Dragonstone when Melisandre declared ‘for the night is dark and full of terrors’.
28. Benone Beach
Distance from the previous destination: 3.1 miles (5 km) | 6-minute drive
Time needed: 30 minutes
Further on from Downhill Strand, you’ll come across Benone Beach. Boasting seven miles of endless golden sands, a mountain backdrop, and stunning views across to County Donegal, this is one of the best spots to visit along this road trip.
Benone isn’t just fantastic to walk along, but it’s also popular with keen swimmers. Just keep in mind that the RNLI beach lifeguards service here is seasonal and only runs in July and August. If you’re planning to take a dip then make sure you know the tide times too.
Like many other beaches in Northern Ireland you can park on the sands and it’s dog friendly, although the latter does depend on the time of year you visit. You’ll just need to look out for the specific zone that you’ll need to walk in if you’ve come here with your pooches.
You don’t need a lot of time at Benone Beach but it’s a great spot for a picnic!
29. Magilligan Point
Distance from the previous destination: 6.4 miles (10.3 km) | 10-minute drive
Time needed: 30 minutes
You may be fed up with beaches by now but bear with us! Magiligan Point is rather unique and it’s a place that you don’t want to leave off your Causeway Coastal Route.
It’s located right at the tip of the peninsula and is home to the largest sand dunes in Britain! Naturally, because of this, you’ve got a great chance of seeing wildflowers, butterflies, and birds. This is why it’s been declared a nature reserve.
At Magiligan Point you’ll also find Martello Tower which is a historical landmark. The tower has been around since the early 1800s and its purpose was to defend against invaders. With a 24-pound cannon and its own troop, Martello Tower did just that.
What’s distinctive about this place is that the shape of the dunes is constantly changing, especially after intense storms and long periods of erosion.
If you’re still not convinced there’s also The Point Bar & Restaurant here which is known for its delicious food and epic views!
30. Londonderry
Distance from the previous destination: 25.9 miles (41.7 km) | 40-minute drive
Time needed: 4 hours
To finish off this Causeway Coast itinerary, you’ll want to spend some time in Derry (otherwise known as Londonderry). Today, it’s most famous for being home to the ‘Derry Girls’ – a popular sitcom that you need to watch if you haven’t already!
However, there’s so much more to this city than that. For starters, Londonderry has an intriguing history and is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland. Derry is also home to the country’s only completely intact walled city.
Aside from its historic wall, this city is home to plenty of popular attractions including the Peace Bridge, St. Columb’s Park, Free Derry Corner, and St. Columb’s Cathedral. Derry is also famous for its museums and there are several that you can visit. This includes the Tower Museum, the Museum of Free Derry, and The Siege Museum.
There’s a lot to do here so it’s up to you how long you spend in Derry. Honestly, it will all depend on how much time you have to drive the Causeway Coastal Route.
Bonus Stop: The Dark Hedges
Time needed: 30 minutes – 1 hour
We’ll start by saying that this spot isn’t actually located along the Causeway Coastal Route so you’ll need to take a short detour to get there. However, no trip to Northern Ireland is complete without visiting this place so make sure it’s on your itinerary.
The Dark Hedges is a beautiful spot that rose to fame after being used as a filming location in Game of Thrones. It’s essentially an avenue of beech trees that were planted in the 18th century, and although it doesn’t sound like much – it’s now one of the most photographed locations in Northern Ireland.
Famous as the ‘Kings Road’, this spot is a must-visit. Luckily, you won’t have to contend with any cars while trying to take pictures as it’s pedestrian-only. There is parking nearby though so it’s not a long walk to get there!
If there’s one thing we will say about visiting the Dark Hedges it’s that you need to get there early. This spot gets extremely busy, especially as the tour buses start to get here during the late morning/early afternoon.
How to explore the Causeway Coastal Route, Ireland
By Car
The best way to explore the Causeway Coastal Route has to be via your own vehicle. Whether you’ve caught the ferry over to Ireland with your vehicle or you’ve hired a car, driving yourself is the best way to get around.
It offers the most flexibility as you won’t be restricted to bus timetables. You’ll be able to set your own schedule and create your own itinerary this way!
Another fantastic way to get around Northern Ireland is by campervan. There are plenty of rental companies in the country to choose from too including Bunk Campers, Causeway Campers, and Indie Campers.
By Bus
If you can’t drive then there are buses that run along the Causeway Coastal Route. However, you’ll be more limited in terms of the destinations that you can access.
The main services you’ll require are Ulsterbus and there are a couple of routes you can take advantage of. This includes:
- Ulsterbus 177 – runs from the Giant’s Causeway to Coleraine
- Ulsterbus 252 – runs from Belfast to Coleraine
- Ulsterbus 402 – runs from Carrick-a-Rede to Coleraine
These routes serve popular spots along the coastal route including Ballycastle, Dunluce Castle, Portrush, and Portstewart.
The majority of these buses only operate during the summer months but you can find out more information about the services through the Translink official website.
By tour
Another way to explore the Causeway Coastal Route is by tour!
You’ll find plenty of coach tours that will take you around Northern Ireland and there are lots of companies to choose from. Some of the coach operators in the area include Allen’s Tours, McComb’s Coach Travel, and Odyssey Coach Tours.
Now, if you’ve not got a lot of time to explore Northern Ireland then you can always take a day tour instead.
Although you won’t be able to see many of the sights on this list, there are plenty of awesome day tour options out there. Here are just a few of them:
- Giant’s Causeway & Game of Thrones Tour from Belfast – This tour will take you to some of the popular sites in this guide including Carrickfergus Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, and the Nine Glens of Antrim. You’ll also get to see plenty of filming locations from Game of Thrones.
- Giant’s Causeway Fully Guided Day Trip – This is another fantastic tour that will take you from Belfast along the Coastal Causeway Route. You’ll get to visit plenty of awesome spots including Carrickfergus Castle, Cushendun Caves, the Dark Hedges, and of course – the Giant’s Causeway.
- From Dublin: Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast – If you’re staying in Dublin then this may be the tour for you! On this tour you’ll get to spend a couple of hours at the Giant’s Causeway, visit the Dark Hedges, wander around Dunluce Castle, and explore Belfast.
- From Dublin: Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, & Titanic Guided Tour – This is another great tour that you can do from Dublin. It’s a 12-hour tour that will take you to the Titanic Museum in Belfast, the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy, and the Giant’s Causeway among other destinations.
Where to Stay along the Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
When it comes to staying along the Causeway Coastal Route you’ve got endless options for where to stay! Below are a couple of the most popular places to stay, along with accommodation options.
We’ve included a hotel option for every budget too, but just keep in mind that accommodation in Northern Ireland isn’t cheap.
Belfast
Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and is a place full of culture, art, and awesome food. You’ll find plenty of awesome attractions in the city and tons of accommodation options although some of them are expensive!
Just keep in mind that Belfast is the starting point of the Causeway Coastal Route so isn’t somewhere you’ll want to base yourself for the whole trip. Once you’ve spent some time exploring the capital it’s best to move further along the coast.
The best places to stay in Belfast
Luxury: The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
Mid-range: The Flint
Budget: Vagabonds Hostel
Ballycastle
Ballycastle is located between Belfast and Londonderry and is a pretty central location along the coastal route. It’s a small seaside town that’s most famous for being the gateway to Rathlin Island.
Ballycastle is surrounded by lush forests, ancient glens, and of course the sea. It has so much to offer and is a great base for your road trip.
You can either stay the entire time in Ballycastle and just drive back and too, or you can make it your second stop after staying in Belfast.
The best places to stay in Ballycastle
Luxury: The Salthouse Hotel
Mid-range: Glass Island Ballycastle
Budget: Ballycastle Town Centre Apartment
Portstewart
Portstewart is another fantastic option which is located further along the coast. Boasting a charming harbour, a scenic beach, and plenty of quaint cafes it’s a great option.
You’ll find plenty of holiday rentals in Portstewart; many of which overlook the sea and there are more budget-friendly choices too.
Portrush is also a popular seaside location but it’s much busier than Portstewart. Although you’ll have access to better beaches, you’ll need to be prepared for crowded high streets and traffic.
The best places to stay in Portstewart
Luxury: Strand House
Mid-range: Port 56
Budget: Anchorage Inn
Frequently Asked Questions about the Causeway Coastal Route
How Long Does it take to drive the Causeway Coastal Route?
The Causeway Coastal Route can take as long as you like, with many people choosing to see the main highlights in just one day.
However, for the best experience, we’d recommend allowing at least 5-6 days. This gives you plenty of time to drive from Belfast to Londonderry and see all the fantastic sights along the way!
When is a Good Time to Drive the Causeway Coastal Route?
Generally, the best time to visit Northern Ireland is between May and September. The peak months are June, July, and August as this is when temperatures are at their highest.
However, this tends to be the busiest time to visit too so if you’re looking for a quieter experience we’d recommend heading there towards the shoulder season.
What are the Main Attractions of the Causeway Coastal Route?
Undoubtedly the main attraction of this coastal route is the Giants Causeway itself. It’s one of the most popular places in Northern Ireland if not the whole of Ireland attracting around a million people every year.
Other popular attractions along the Causeway Coastal Route include the Titanic Museum in Belfast, the Old Bushmills Distillery, and Portrush.
Can you Camp Along the Causeway Coastal Route?
Wild camping is illegal in Northern Ireland unless you’ve received permission from the landowner. Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic campsites along the Causeway Coastal Route.
Some popular options include Causeway Coast Holiday Park in Ballycastle, Highview Holiday Park in Portrush, and Maddybenny Farm Campsite near Portstewart.
Final Thoughts on this Causeway Coastal Route
Northern Ireland is home to some incredible destinations which makes it the perfect place for a road trip.
The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the best road trips you’ll come across; full of rugged beauty, dramatic landscapes, and endless attractions.
There are so many adventures waiting for you in this part of Northern Ireland, and the most important piece of advice we can give you is not to rush your trip here!
If you have any further questions about this coastal route then don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or in the comments below.
Here are some more Ireland posts that you may be interested in:
- Aran Islands Day Trip: The Best Things To Do In Inishmore
- Cliffs of Moher Day Trip (A Guide To Ireland’s Favourite Visitor Attraction)
- Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary: Best Places To Include on Your Ireland Road Trip)
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I’m one half of Acouplescalling. I'm passionate about all things travel and photography and I love sharing my experiences with others. I've seen a lot of the world already and I want to help as many people as I can do the same thing!
