North Coast insider shares 'end-of-summer to-do list' for a trip to Portrush
"It’s a vibrant, year-round destination with something for everyone"
A north coast native has shared their ultimate guide to a trip to Portrush before the summer comes to an end.
Portrush is more than just The Open this summer and whether you’re chasing adrenaline, romance, family fun, or just a great coffee with a sea view, it is a spot to add to the list.
With Blue Flag beaches, award-winning restaurants and bars, thrilling activities on land and sea, and world-class attractions right on the doorstep, Joanne Boyle, General Manager of Elephant Rock Boutique Hotel, has rounded up her top picks for a last-minute getaway.
She said: "Pictures of our idyllic seaside town were beamed across the globe during The Open
"But Portrush is so much more than golf – it’s a vibrant, year-round destination with something for everyone."
From a quick day trip to a long weekend, Joanne’s has curated a list that will help you make the most of a visit to the north coast:
Fun-filled activities
- Surf the East Strand with Troggs Surf School or try stand-up paddleboarding with Revive North Coast.
- Snorkel alongside seals at the Skerries with Freedive NI, or kayak sea caves with Alive Adventures.
- Bodyboard the Blue Flag beaches or join an Aquaholics wildlife tour to spot seals and puffins.
Romantic date ideas
- Enjoy dinner at Shanty followed by cocktails on their seafront terrace.
- Stroll barefoot at sunset along Whiterocks Beach
- Cruise the world-famous Causeway Coastal Route with your favourite person and stop for ice cream at Morelli’s.
Entertain the big kids and little kids
- Choo-choo on the Damhead Miniature Railway.
- Spin and scream at Curry’s Funfair or win prizes at Funland arcade.
- Putt around at the Jet Centre’s mini golf or Hunt for crabs and starfish in rockpools.
A foodie's dream
- Sip artisan coffee at Babushka Kitchen Café.
- Pick up a Neapolitan pizza from Igloo and enjoy it overlooking the West Strand.
- Savour seasonal produce and Atlantic Ocean views at Eldon’s at Elephant Rock
- Go hands-on with a chocolate workshop at The Chocolate Manor or a sourdough class at Ursa Minor.
Life's a beach
- Swim or sunbathe at East Strand and Whiterocks.
- Take a cliff-top stroll or let the kids run wild at Ramore Head.
- Build sandcastles on Portrush’s golden shores.
World class attractions
- Walk the Giant’s Causeway hexagons.
- Cross Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
- Tour Dunluce Castle cliff-top ruins.
- Sip whiskey at Old Bushmills Distillery.
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