Beach camping near Portstewart

This seaside resort town features a long golden beach and plenty of adventure.

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Popular camping styles for Portstewart

2 top beach campsites near Portstewart

The Charcoal Huts - Isle of Bute

Our Huts are located within the Moss Wood area of Bute Forest - a mixed birch and alder wood that extends up the hillside to the west of the A886 that connects the Rhubodach Ferry to Port Bannatyne and Rothesay. Moss Wood has a range of facilities. Park on the shore-side where the coast can be enjoyed or at the main entrance, and take a walk up through Moss Wood along the Poetry Trail. A steep walk in places, the Poetry Trail is a loop punctuated with places to stop and read, to stop and think. Read nature poetry from throughout the ages, stop at the Blether Stane, or taking the spur to the Viewing Point back south across the Kyles. Moss Wood connects to the West Island Way – take the Poetry Trail and the spur to the Viewing Point – and then take the Stag’s Trod further up (steeply) till you reach the West Island Way. From there, head south towards Port Bannatyne or north along the boundary of the Community Forest. From the viewing point, you can also explore interesting heritage features such as the old WW2 bunker, kayak shelter, Balnakailly settlement, and the SSSI oak woodland.

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Runach Arainn Glamping

3 units · Glamping1 acre · Kilmory, Scotland

A three-yurt luxury glamping site on the Isle of Arran, steps away from the beach

Beach camping near Portstewart guide

Overview

Portstewart offers a 2-mile-long beach backed by sand dunes set amid birdlife and wildflowers. The surrounding area is full of activities and amenities, from amusements to surfing, watersports, and hiking. It’s also a great base for exploring the Causeway Coast, including the Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle. Head outside of Portstewart for the best camping sites and to see some Game of Thrones filming sites like Downhill Beach and Ballintoy Harbour.

Where to go

Portstewart Strand

Portstewart is a typical seaside town with a long promenade, but one of its best features is the long golden strand which stretches for two miles and is perfect for a walk, picnic, or family day out. Surfing spots and watersports centres dot the area, as well as camping options that are available on the coast and slightly inland. Check out the neighbouring holiday town of Portrush for golfing and more seaside fun.

Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coastal Route is full of adventure—walk the cliff-top ruins of the 16th-century Dunluce Castle, or explore the basalt rock formations at the Giant’s Causeway. Game of Thrones fans can check out filming locations like Ballintoy Harbour (The Iron Islands), or Downhill Beach (Dragonstone). Holiday parks and camping accommodations can be found all along the coastal route.

Ballycastle and Rathlin Island

Ballycastle is another resort town with a harbour and beach, from where campers can take a ferry to Rathlin Island, six miles out to sea. The island is a renowned bird sanctuary and ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle to learn about the thousands of birds that visit the island, including puffins. You can make your visit a day trip or stay overnight—you just need permission from a landowner to camp, and both tent camping and glamping options are available.

When to go

Summer is the busiest season in this region, when kids are on school holiday and campsites book up far in advance.

Know before you go

Dates of summer events and bank holidays are busy times for camping around Portstewart. Consider making advance bookings to secure your spot.
Many campsites are seasonal so check dates in advance.
Weather can change at short notice so always be prepared for rain and wind. Campsites can close and island ferries can be cancelled during storms.