Beaches

Famous as the land "where the mountains sweep down to the sea," the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion region offers one of the most striking coastlines in Ireland. Along this rugged shoreline, you’ll find sweeping sea views, fresh ocean air, and stretches of pristine sand. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil spot to unwind or looking for coastal adventure, you will find it here.

Discover the Coastal Beauty of Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion - Explore Blue Flag Beaches, Seaside Towns and Nature Trails

Charming seaside towns and villages dot the coastline, each offering a warm welcome and a base for exploring the natural beauty nearby. With three stunning Blue Flag beaches in the area and multiple family-friendly spots, it’s the perfect destination for a short break or a seaside holiday.  There’s nothing like a long day out at the beach with your family or friends.  So, socks off and try dipping your toes into the cool blue waters of one of our many beaches listed below.

Award-Winning Blue Flag Beaches Await

There are three designated Blue Flag beaches in the region - Murlough, Cranfield and Tyrella. These beaches meet the highest standards for cleanliness, safety and environmental management. Each beach is lifeguarded during summer months, providing peace of mind for families.

Whether you’re splashing in the water with the kids, building the ultimate sandcastle, or stretching out with a good book under the sun, the coast offers plenty of space, stunning views, and a safe, welcoming spot to soak up the seaside fun.

Accessibility and Inclusive Beaches in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion

An Inclusive Beach is more than just a seaside location - it’s a place where people of all ages and abilities can feel welcome, included and supported. Thanks to the work of the Mae Murray Foundation and local partners, Inclusive Beaches across Northern Ireland provide accessible parking, beach-friendly wheelchairs, mobility aids, and Changing Places toilets with hoisting and adult-sized changing benches.

Beach equipment loans are free to members (membership is free too), and many beaches host inclusive activity days like beach fun events and surf days. Cranfield Beach is already a leading example in the region, and more beaches are following suit. Find out more here.

Explore the Ancient Dunes of Murlough Beach

Murlough Beach is a four-mile stretch of sand and shingle, backed by ancient dunes shaped by millennia of natural forces. The area is rich in wildlife and home to rare butterfly species, making it as fascinating as it is beautiful. With the Mournes towering in the background, it’s a haven for walkers, nature lovers and photographers.

Lifeguards are on duty in summer, and the beach’s accessible layout makes it a welcoming choice for all. Murlough is part of the Blue Flag network and offers a memorable day out for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Find out more here.

Cranfield Beach: Fossils, Family Fun and Inclusive Access

Located at the mouth of Carlingford Lough, Cranfield Beach is a south-facing haven for families and water sports fans. It’s recognised as an Area of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique geological features, including ancient fossil-bearing rock formations. Golden sands stretch along the shore, perfect for picnics, sandcastles and scenic walks.

Cranfield is also a designated Inclusive Beach. Through a partnership with the Mae Murray Foundation, the beach provides all-terrain wheelchairs, mobility aids, accessible parking, and fully equipped disabled toilets with adult-sized changing benches and hoists. Lifeguards patrol during peak seasons, and facilities include showers, toilets, and a children’s play area. Find out more here.

Tyrella Beach: Clean, Calm and Car-Free

Just a short distance from Dundrum, Tyrella Beach offers two kilometres of golden sands and 25 hectares of protected sand dunes. It’s an ideal destination for swimming, sunbathing, and nature walks. The beach’s flat sands and gentle waves make it perfect for families and those looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.

As a car-free zone, Tyrella offers a safe environment for children and a tranquil experience for visitors. Lifeguards are present in summer, and the beach holds Blue Flag status, ensuring top-quality water and services. Accessibility features, including Inclusive Beach provisions, are planned for Summer to ensure that everyone can enjoy the shore.

Newcastle: A Timeless Victorian Seaside Town

Newcastle, County Down has been a beloved seaside escape since Victorian times, and its appeal hasn’t faded. With its long promenade, bustling town centre, and breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains, it offers a quintessential Northern Ireland coastal experience.

After a refreshing paddle or sandy stroll, refuel in one of the town’s many cafés or restaurants. The beach itself is framed by the dramatic rise of the Mournes, making it one of the most scenic spots for a seaside day trip. Find out more about Newcastle here.

Water Sports and Walks at Warrenpoint Beach

Warrenpoint Beach sits along Carlingford Lough and is a popular hub for aquatic adventure. Whether you're into jet skiing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding (all booking essential), this scenic beach delivers. Set against the stunning Mournes, it’s also a great spot for leisurely seaside walks and coastal exploration. Find out more here.

The Victorian town of Warrenpoint offers a charming backdrop, complete with shops, cafés, and friendly hospitality. Warrenpoint is working toward becoming an Inclusive Beach, ensuring that more visitors will be able to access its facilities with ease in the near future. Find out more about Warrenpoint here.

Ballyhornan Beach

Ballyhornan Beach is located on the Lecale Way.  It is a sandy beach surrounded by cliffs.  Guns Island, a well-known fishing spot, lies in the bay and it is possible to see the Isle of Man on the horizon on a good day.  The beach is on the South East Coast Canoe Trail so why not look into hiring a canoe or kayak before you go. 

Killard Nature Reserve

About a mile further along from Ballyhornan you will find Killard Nature Reserve, a site rich in unique flowers, birds and insects.  Bird watching is the main reason people visit the nature reserve.  You can enjoy a coastal walk here too and relax on the small sandy beach found at the end of your walk.  The effects of the Ice Age can also be seen in the shape of the rocks at Killard Point.

So if you are planning a family beach holiday in Northern Ireland, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion region offers both relaxation and adventure. From building sandcastles on award-winning Blue Flag beaches to exploring ancient sand dunes, paddling in calm shallows, or enjoying water sports on scenic loughs — there’s something for everyone. Add in charming seaside towns, inclusive facilities, and breathtaking coastal walks, and you’ve got the perfect setting for unforgettable memories. Pack your sun cream, grab your bucket and spade, and get ready to discover one of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular coastal escapes.