Top 5 Closest Beaches to Belfast
Looking for the best beaches near Belfast for a fun-filled family day out? You’re in luck. Belfast is not only a vibrant city packed with museums, parks and attractions; it’s also perfectly placed for exploring some of the closest beaches to Belfast.
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous seaside escape or searching for the best beach near Belfast for little ones, there are plenty of options within easy reach. From sandy shores perfect for paddling to scenic coastal walks and playgrounds, these Belfast beaches offer something for all ages.
1. Hazelbank Park Beach
12-minute drive | 45 minutes by public transport
If you’re looking for the closest beach to Belfast, Hazelbank Park Beach is hard to beat. Sitting along the shores of Belfast Lough, this peaceful spot is ideal for younger families.
Children can enjoy paddling along the shoreline or building sandcastles, while parents take in views stretching across to Carrickfergus and County Down. Keep an eye out for seals, which are sometimes spotted in the lough.
The park itself makes this more than just a beach trip. With a playground, cycling trails, picnic benches and open green spaces, it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. There are also public toilets and free parking, making it a hassle-free choice for families.
2. Helen’s Bay
20-minute drive | 40 minutes by public transport
Often considered one of the best beaches in Belfast (and just outside it), Helen’s Bay is a firm family favourite. Located just over 9 miles from the city, it offers soft sand, calm waters and excellent water quality, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.
Right next door, Crawfordsburn Country Park adds even more to your day out. Think woodland walks, open meadows and a visitor centre, plus a fascinating military museum to explore.
Facilities include free parking and public toilets, and the beach is suitable for all ages. For an extra adventure, take the scenic coastal walk from Helen’s Bay to Crawfordsburn.
3. Crawfordsburn Beach
25-minute drive | 1 hour 10 minutes by public transport
Just along the coast, Crawfordsburn Beach is another excellent option when searching for beaches near Belfast. Set within Crawfordsburn Country Park, it combines a sandy shoreline with nature trails and forest walks.
The beach holds Blue Flag status, making it a great choice for a clean and safe family day out. Beyond the sand, you can follow the Glen Walk through a wooded valley, passing waterfalls and the Lanyon Viaduct.
4. Murlough Beach
1-hour drive | 1.5 hours by public transport
If you’re happy to travel a little further, Murlough Beach is often named among the best beaches near Belfast.
Managed by the National Trust, this stunning stretch of coastline boasts 8km of golden sand backed by dunes. It’s perfect for long walks, picnics and letting the kids run free.
Nature lovers will appreciate the rich wildlife here, with over 600 species of butterflies and moths, as well as seals often spotted along the shore.
5. Seapark Beach (Holywood)
15-minute drive | 45 minutes by public transport
Located in Holywood, Seapark Beach is one of the closest beaches to Belfast and a great choice for families. The beach is ideal for paddling and enjoying views across Belfast Lough, while the surrounding park offers plenty to keep children entertained.
A standout feature is the pirate-themed playground, alongside sports facilities and open green spaces perfect for picnics. It’s also the starting point of the North Down Coastal Path, making it a lovely spot for a short family walk.
Where to Stay in Belfast for Your Family Break
Clayton Hotel Belfast is a comfortable and convenient base for families, ideally located in the heart of the city. With easy access to Belfast’s top attractions and excellent transport links, reaching nearby beaches by train or car is simple, making it easy to combine seaside day trips with city adventures. Spacious, family-friendly rooms, on-site dining and relaxing leisure facilities ensure you can unwind after a busy day, while everything Belfast has to offer is just a short walk away.
FAQs: Belfast's nearest Beaches
The closest beach to Belfast is Hazelbank Park Beach, located just a 15-minute drive from the city centre. It sits along Belfast Lough and is ideal for a quick family outing, with plenty of green space, a playground and picnic areas. Seapark Beach and Helen’s Bay are also nearby and popular choices if you’re looking for a slightly larger beach experience close to Belfast.
Some of the best beaches near Belfast for families include Helen’s Bay, Crawfordsburn Beach and Seapark Beach in Holywood. These beaches are all within 30 minutes of the city and offer a mix of sandy shores, safe paddling areas and nearby parks or walking trails. For a longer day trip, Murlough Beach is also a great option, with wide open space and beautiful scenery perfect for children to explore.
While there isn’t a beach directly in Belfast city centre, nearby spots like Helen’s Bay and Crawfordsburn Beach are often considered the best beaches in Belfast for a day trip. Both are easily accessible and offer a great mix of sandy beaches, scenic walks and family-friendly facilities, they are also near large parks with lots of family friendly activities.
Several beaches near Belfast are easily accessible by public transport. Helen’s Bay and Crawfordsburn Beach both have nearby train stations, making them convenient options for families without a car. Seapark Beach in Holywood is another great choice, offering easy access along with playgrounds and coastal walks.
