West Strand
West Strand Beach, also known as West Bay or Mill Strand is a popular resort beach in the heart of this busy seaside resort. The beach frequently attains the Blue Flag Award, most recently in 2025. West Strand Beach is bounded at its northern end by the busy habour and flanked along its eastern boundary by a well-used pedestrian/cycle promenade. Easy access to and from the town centre and all associated amenities/services. Please refer to all safety signage at West Strand Beach and heed advice given by lifeguards during the season. Facilities: Car Parking (Fee applicable 1st April - 30th September, 50p per hour), Car Parking Restrictions apply during The Open Golf tournament. Dogs Allowed (restrictions apply 1st June - 15th September) Lifeguard Service (July & August, daily 10am - 6pm) Toilets Cycle parking Coffee shops, restaurants, shops and amusements nearby The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility: disabled toilets and disabled parking. Concrete pedestrian access ramp onto West Strand Beach at northern end. West Strand Beach is protected through ASSI designation due to buried peat deposits and ancient sands beneath the beach. Embedded within the peats are the fossilised remains of ancient trees including alder and birch that once populated the area some 9,000 - 7,000 years ago. Keep an eye out for the resident pod of harbour porpoises just off the shore.
Directions from Town
A daily bus service passes close to West Strand Beach entrance and Portrush Train Station is in very close proximity to the beach. .
Getting to the start by car
West Strand Beach is located off the Portstewart Road in Portrush - access to the adjacent car park is via the black stone railway arch off Portstewart Road.Directions from Town:Signposted off Portstewart Road with access under Railway Bridge.
Getting to the start by public transport
A daily bus service passes close to West Strand Beach entrance and Portrush Train Station is in very close proximity to the beach.
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Getting to the start on foot
Tourists can follow the UW/CCW that follows the promenade flanking West Strand Beach. Within Portrush, there are many pedestrian access points giving access from the promenade flanking the eastern boundary of this beach.
Opening times
All year round
Price from £
Free. (Car Parking fees applicable)
Location