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Top Tips for Family Fun in the North Coast

The North Coast is famous for its award winning beaches and breathtaking views and with a whole host of events and activities taking place near the seaside resorts of Portrush and Portstewart you’ll find yourself chanting ‘Are we nearly there yet?’ in excitement with the kids. 

Steeped in history and legend and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike the North Coast is the perfect place to get away from it all.

Be sure to check out our extensive list of activity events and activity ideas in the North Coast. No experience required, no specialist equipment needed, you don’t need a big group or lots of organisation.  Just make a quick call or email to the activity providers to begin your adventure.

Here are some of our top tips: 

Put down the bucket and spade, don a wetsuit and get ready to ‘hang ten’ with the kids as you learn to surf the waves of the Atlantic.  Don’t let the good ole Northern Irish weather dampen your spirits, gone are the days when rain put a halt to family outings at the beach – surfing lessons are available all year round.  Book lessons with a surf school and earn some ‘cool’ points with the kids.

If you don’t fancy the waves straight away why not learn to stand up paddle board with SurfSUPNI in Portballintrae harbour.  With beginner sessions available for those aged 12 and up it won’t be long until you’ll be confident enough to tackle the surf.

For something a bit more adventurous why not go coasteering? Experience the coast like never before as you walk, scramble, jump, swim and sometimes crawl along the Causeway Coast.  With experienced instructors and wetsuits to keep you warm, you’ll be sure to have a splashing good time.  Check out our blog for a first hand account.

Forget admiring the views from the car window, leave the shore and squeal with excitement as you skim the waters on the Causeway Sea Safari. Taking in the Giant’s Causeway, Rathlin Island and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, this is a fun and exciting way to see the sights. Check out our blog for a first hand account.

Once back on dry land head towards Cushendall and Ardclinis Outdoor Adventure.  With a variety of activities including abseiling, archery, laser tag and canoeing there is sure to be something to keep everyone happy.

If you are looking for something a bit more relaxed then take time to enjoy the views peddling one of the many cycle routes the North Coast has to offer.  With child and adult bike hire available from Bushmills Cycle Hire or Causeway Cycle Hire this is a hassle free and inexpensive way to spend some quality time together. 

Make a break of it

With so many exciting activities to choose from, why not take a short break.  

Discover Northern Ireland has plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets but here are some of OutdoorNI.com’s favourites. 

On a budget

Mill Rest Youth Hostel, Bushmills, Co. Antrim

Situated in Bushmills, just 6 miles from Portrush this award winning hostel offers great value for money with modern mezzanine style family bedrooms.

Mid Range

Ballylinny cottages, Bushmills, Co. Antrim

Modern self-catering accommodation with stunning views over the Giant’s Causeway, the sleepy seaside village of Portballintrae and the sweeping Donegal Coastline; these spacious cottages are ideal for families wanting to unwind after an active day on the coast.

The Beach House, Portballintrae, Co. Antrim

This self catering beach house in Portballintrae is kitted out with all the mod cons and is just steps away from some of the Causeway Coast’s finest attractions.  Run by the founder of SurfSUPNI you’ll never be short of an idea for an adventure or two.

Top Range 

The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, Co. Antrim

Traditional, luxury, four star accommodation in the heart of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast.  This four star hotel is steeped in character and charm - the perfect haven to relax and unwind after a day of adventure on the Causeway Coast.