Benone Beach

What You'll Find

Benone Beach is one of those beaches where you arrive with the kids and wonder how they'll ever manage to explore it all! With around seven miles of golden sand stretching along the North Coast, there's plenty of room for sandcastles, football, paddling and long walks beside the sea.

The beach stretches from Downhill towards Magilligan Point, with beautiful views along the coastline and towards Mussenden Temple, perched high on the cliffs at Downhill.

One of the things that makes Benone particularly handy for families is that vehicles are permitted onto designated sections of the beach when conditions allow. This can make carrying buckets, spades, picnic bags and everything else that comes with a beach day a little easier! Just check the current access arrangements and follow the signs before driving onto the sand.

The beach itself is wide and sandy, with plenty of space to spread out. Bring a football, kite or buckets and spades, and the kids will have no shortage of things to do. On a windy day, it's a brilliant place for flying a kite, although you'll definitely want an extra layer!

Another reason Benone is worth visiting is the nearby Benone Tourist Complex. It's just back from the beach and has family facilities including an outdoor paddling pool, a children's play area and picnic space. The paddling pool is seasonal, so it's worth checking whether it's open before promising the wee ones a dip.

There are also sand dunes behind the beach, which form part of the coastal landscape. Stick to designated access routes to help protect them.

You could easily spend a whole afternoon here, especially during the summer when you can combine the beach with a visit to the tourist complex.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Building sandcastles and digging in the miles of golden sand
• ✓Flying a kite or playing football on the wide beach
• ✓Paddling at the shoreline when conditions are safe
• ✓Visiting the play area at nearby Benone Tourist Complex
• ✓Enjoying the seasonal outdoor paddling pool when it's open

Before You Visit

Vehicles are permitted on designated sections of Benone Beach, subject to local restrictions and conditions. Keep children close and be aware of moving vehicles on the sand.

Check tide times and sea conditions before visiting. The North Coast can have strong currents and changing conditions, so only swim where and when it is safe to do so.

The paddling pool at Benone Tourist Complex is seasonal. Check current opening arrangements before travelling if that's part of your plans.

The beach is very exposed, so bring windproof layers even on sunny days.

Use designated paths through the dunes and avoid disturbing protected areas.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Bring a kite! The wide sandy beach is brilliant for flying one when there's a breeze.
• ⭐If you're visiting with younger children, check whether the paddling pool and playground at Benone Tourist Complex are open so you can enjoy both.
• ⭐Look towards Downhill for views of Mussenden Temple sitting high above the coastline.
• ⭐If you're planning to drive onto the beach, check the permitted access points and current restrictions first.
• ⭐Pack plenty of snacks, towels and spare clothes. With so much sand to explore, you could easily spend hours here!