The Causeway Coast and Glens of Northern Ireland boasts a vibrant culinary scene that perfectly complements its natural beauty. Beachside restaurants, cosy cafés, and charming eateries dot the coastline, offering both locals and visitors a delightful array of dining experiences.
Picture yourself taking a long walk along golden stretches of sand as the sharp, sea air fills your lungs. Shuffling through the soft dunes, your day of adventuring soon catches up with you as you begin to feel the hunger for some tasty local fare. You don't have to leave the beach just yet (or travel too far from it, at least). There's plenty of places to dine around our picturesque beaches, offering tantalising views over the ocean.
On sunny days, these seaside restaurants are buzzing with visitors and locals, out to enjoy the opportunity to dine al fresco or grab a late sunset meal. In the winter months, you can take shelter indoors to enjoy the seaside views with a warming bowl of stew or chowder.
From savouring fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views to enjoying a relaxing coffee while the waves crash nearby, these beachside eateries provide the perfect blend of taste and tranquillity.
On this page
• Restaurants near Magilligan Point and Benone Beach
• Restaurants near Downhill Beach and Castlerock Beach
• Restaurants near Portstewart Strand
• Restaurants near beaches in Portrush
• Beachside Restaurants close to Bushmills
• Restaurants near Ballycastle Beach
• Restaurants near Cushendun Beach
• Restaurants near Cushendall Beach
Beachside Eateries: Restaurants and Cafés in the Causeway & Glens
Restaurants near Magilligan Point Strand and Benone Beach
Situated at the foot of the majestic Binevenagh Mountain, you'll find the area of Magilligan - a stunning location where natural beauty meets rich history, offering a perfect backdrop for exploring sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and charming dining spots. You'll find two beaches in the area: the busy and bustling Benone Beach, and the quiet secluded Magilligan Point Beach.
The Point, Magilligan
Nestled on Magilligan Beach near a historic Martello Tower, The Point offers a cosy fireside and a lively pub atmosphere. Watch the Lough Foyle Ferry glide to and from Greencastle in County Donegal, while savouring their highly-rated seafood chowder - a beloved local favourite!
Anglers Rest, Magilligan
Just a short stroll from Benone Beach and its nearby holiday parks, this welcoming roadside restaurant and pub boasts breathtaking views of Binevenagh Mountain. Perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of beach adventures.
Waves Coffee Shop & Bistro, Benone Beach
Located on the boardwalk to Benone Beach, Waves Coffee Shop & Bistro is right next to Benone Tourist Complex. Indulge in their wide array of sweet and savoury treats, from pancake stacks to decadent milkshakes, epic fry-ups and brunch-time favourites. The café is dog-friendly, too, so your best friend doesn’t have to miss out after their walkies on the beach!
Sea Shed, Benone Beach
Tucked away in the dunes of Benone Beach, Sea Shed is a grab-and-go coffee bar with outdoor seating that allows you to take in the fresh sea air. Grab a coffee to-go and enjoy a tranquil walk along the golden sands, or refuel after an exciting morning of surf lessons on the coast.
Restaurants near Downhill Beach and Castlerock Beach
You can either walk from Benone Beach to Downhill, but if you’re planning on venturing onwards to the area of Castlerock, we recommend taking the scenic drive! These two areas are close by, and between the two, you’ll find the enchanting estate of Downhill Demesne: a mansion built in the late 18th century for Frederick, 4th Earl of Bristol and Lord Bishop of Derry.
Temple Cove Coffee Bar, Downhill
On the road to Downhill Demesne, and just before the entrance to Downhill Beach, you’ll find this quaint coffee shop offering views over the sea and up to Mussenden Temple. Delight in home-baked cakes after a refreshing beach walk on Downhill Beach. We’ve heard rave reviews about their Victoria Sponge Cake!
Surf Shack, Castlerock
Along the promenade and opposite the entrance to Castlerock Beach, Surf Shack is a trendy, intimate spot with cosy sofas to cuddle up on. Hear the sights and sounds of the bustling promenade on busy days while watching the waves crash. Their on-site shop is stocked with Castlerock-inspired clothing and gifts, too!
Bertha's Bar, Castlerock
At the far end of Castlerock Beach, you’ll find Bertha’s Bar serving up hearty local favourites and pub grub. The spacious beer garden is perfect for enjoying a quiet drop of your favourite tipple on summer evenings. They’re dog-friendly, so you’ll often find four-legged patrons lounging around in the sun while their owners enjoy tasty bites outdoors!
Restaurants near Portstewart Strand
Everybody knows that Portstewart is a haven for foodies visiting the Causeway Coast. The local Promenade is home to many pubs, restaurants, cafés, and ice cream parlours, but if you fancy going a little bit further, it's worth exploring the town’s local beach; Portstewart Strand. This spectacularly sandy sanctuary is home to a range of flora and fauna, making it an important part of the Causeway Coast's ecological environment.
Harry's Shack, Portstewart
Situated at the entrance to Portstewart Strand, Harry's Shack offers an unforgettable dining experience with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a relaxing beach walk before tucking into delicious seafood with stunning views across the vast golden sands that surround it.
Eighteen Ninety Four, Portstewart
Part of the prestigious Brown Bonds Hill collection, this fine dining restaurant at Portstewart Golf Club is perfect for a sophisticated meal or special occasion. If you’re squeezing in a round of golf while you’re here, it’s a one-stop-shop for the perfect day out. We don’t think you’ll need any more convincing!
Restaurants near Beaches in Portrush
What's better than a town with one beach? A town with three beaches! Portrush has long been known for its vibrant nightlife and popular restaurants, which have always been a favourite among holiday-makers to the seaside town. If you're having a hard time deciding which one to eat at, maybe a beach view will sway your decision. Here are restaurants and cafes in Portrush closest to Whiterocks Beach, West Strand and East Strand Beaches:
Franco Manca, Portrush
Overlooking West Strand Beach and just a stone’s throw to Curry's Fun Park, Franco Manca serves up mouth-watering pizza with spectacular views. You might have spent your day indulging in fairground favourites like popcorn and candyfloss, but there’s always room for pizza, right?
Babushka, Portrush
Located at the south pier end of West Strand Beach, Babushka is a perfect brunch spot with a tantalising menu that changes with the seasons. Savour all of your favourite breakfast, brunch and lunchtime favourites here, like French toast, seasonal porridge bowls, and bacon baps. Choose a window seat to take in the beachside views, or sit outdoors on sunny days to soak in the atmosphere.
Café at The Arcadia, Portrush
Set in the historic Arcadia building, once a famous Ballroom, and close to East Strand Beach, this café’s light and airy interiors enhance the coastal atmosphere of this café. After a brisk morning walk, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee with a view.
55 Degrees North, Portrush
Boasting modern interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows, 55 Degrees North offers panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean, East Strand Beach and the aforementioned iconic Arcadia building. It’s a perfect venue for a romantic evening dinner or a catch-up lunch with friends.
Royal Court Hotel, Portrush
Perched on an elevated site above Whiterocks Beach and near Dunluce Castle, the Royal Court Hotel serves a sumptuous Sunday Carvery with a side helping of stunning sea views. Complete the experience with a stay in one of their tastefully appointed rooms, before venturing out to Whiterocks for your morning stroll.
Beachside Restaurants close to Bushmills
You might not think that Bushmills is so close to a nearby beach, especially if you're not local to the area. Aren't you lucky you have us to give you the inside scoop? Close to the village of Bushmills, you'll find an even smaller village called Portballintrae. This tiny coastal area offers peace and tranquillity away from the Causeway Coast's busier resort towns and attractions, and it's here you'll find Runkerry Beach. The beach extends eastwards from the mouth of the River Bush towards Runkerry House and the famous Giant's Causeway, and is sometimes locally referred to as 'Bushfoot Beach'.
Porthole at Bayview Hotel, Portballintrae
In the charming fishing village of Portballintrae, The Porthole Restaurant offers picturesque harbour views and is just a short 10 minute walk from Runkerry Beach. Enhance your dining experience with a luxurious overnight stay here, before exploring all that the Causeway Coastal Route has to offer.
Broughgammon at Whitepark Bay
From the team at Broughgammon Farm - a working farm, butchery and Economusée - this street food hatch at Whitepark Bay serves delicious burgers, steak sandwiches, and loaded fries made with local produce, including ingredients from their very own farm. It doesn’t get any more local than this!
Roark's Kitchen, Ballintoy Harbour
Nestled in a quaint fisherman’s cottage at Ballintoy Harbour, Roark’s Kitchen offers delightful homemade bakes, coffee, and tea. After your tea, take a wander around the picturesque harbour to see if you can uncover the 'secret beach', with views over Sheep Island.
Restaurants near Ballycastle Beach
Ballycastle really has it all. This seaside town has so much history and an abundance of natural scenery to explore, including Ballycastle Beach. On this pebble beach, you can take in the views of the striking cliff face of Fairhead and beyond out to Rathlin Island. On a clear day, parts of Scotland are even visible! The best part about this beach is its central location to the town's seafront.
Marconi's Bistro at Marine Hotel, Ballycastle
Located along Ballycastle's seafront, Marconi's Bistro is just a short walk from Ballycastle’s pretty pebble beach. Recently renovated and well-known for being one of Northern Ireland’s most pet-friendly hotels, it also makes an ideal base for your next stay on the Causeway Coast. Especially if your furry friend is joining you on your adventures!
The Promenade Café, Ballycastle
Fancy something a little more laid back? This quaint little family-run café along Ballycastle’s promenade serves up warming, homemade favourites for hungry adventurers on the Causeway Coastal Route.
Morton’s Fish & Chips, Ballycastle
This might not be the first time you’ve heard of Morton’s Fish & Chips, and for good reason. Serving the Ballycastle community for over 100 years, Morton’s has been a longstanding favourite among Ballycastle locals and visitors alike. Get your fish ‘n’ chips to go, and enjoy them on a scenic walk as you take in the sights and sounds of Ballycastle along the way.
Places to eat near Cushendun Beach
If you need some time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a trip to Cushendun is just what the doctor ordered. This tiny village is managed by the National Trust, and the pristine beach that you'll find here is usually quiet, even on the warmest of days! If you're searching for a weekend away to experience authentic village life, be sure to put Cushendun on your radar.
Mary McBride's, Cushendun
Opposite the short road leading to Cushendun Beach, Mary McBride's is a traditional pub serving up some of the tastiest pub grub in the region. It’s an ideal pit stop in this quaint village, allowing you to take the time to enjoy a slower pace of life and savour a special moment on your road trip through the Causeway Coast and Glens.
Restaurants near Cushendall Beach
Not far from Cushendun, you'll find Cushendall (don't worry, you're not the first one to get confused between these two placenames and you won’t be the last). This is another small village perched on the eastern side of the Northern Ireland's coastline. Framed by a stunning backdrop of the Lurigethan Mountain, you'll find the local beach which is only 250m long.
Nineteen Thirty Eight at Cushendall Golf Club
In the shadow of the Lurigethan Mountain (or Lurig, for short), Nineteen Thirty-Eight at Cushendall Golf Club offers elegant dining options with views over the beach. Enjoy a serene meal or afternoon tea in a beautiful setting, followed by a short stroll to take in the seaside and mountain views.
There we have it! As you can tell by now, there’s plenty of great beachside restaurants to be found across the Causeway Coast & Glens, and there’s many more great places to eat that are just a short drive away from local shores. That’s the beauty of our region, you’re never too far from the sand and the sea!
Ready to explore the nearby beaches to these restaurants and cafes? Check them out here >>
Which of this beachside restaurants and cafés will you be enjoying on your next visit to Northern Ireland?
