Whiterocks Beach
County Antrim
Whiterocks Beach is a two-mile stretch of spectacular sandy beach on the Causeway Coast between Portrush and Dunluce Castle, named for the dramatic white limestone cliffs and rock formations that line its length. The soft limestone has been carved by the sea into an extraordinary series of caves, arches and headlands with evocative names: the Wishing Arch, Elephant Rock and Lion's Paw. The beach is a Blue Flag award holder and a consistently popular destination for surfing, bodyboarding, kayaking and sea swimming. The panoramic views encompass the Atlantic, the Causeway Coast, Donegal and on clear days the Scottish islands.
Dog restrictions apply at Whiterocks Beach from 1 June to 15 September under Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council dog control orders, covering the Arcadia beach area eastward toward Dunluce Castle. The main beach beyond the restricted zone remains accessible to dogs with leads, and the full beach is open outside the restriction season. Year-round access to the wider beach.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Seasonal Restrictions
- Dogs restricted on the Arcadia beach area from access point eastward toward Dunluce Castle from 1 June to 15 September under Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council dog control orders. Remainder of beach accessible with leads.
- Beach Type
- Sand
- Tide Notes
- Wide sandy beach at all tides. The white limestone cliffs and sea stacks are best explored at low tide. Surf conditions good for watersports.
- Facilities
- Free car park, toilets with shower cubicles, disabled parking, boardwalk access. RNLI lifeguards July and August. Blue Flag beach
- Parking
- Free car park adjacent to beach at Whiterocks. Overflow parking also available
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whiterocks Beach dog friendly?
Whiterocks Beach is a great choice for dogs, earning a solid 8/10 on our dog-friendly rating. Dogs are welcome on the main beach, though seasonal restrictions apply to part of it during the summer months, so it's worth planning your visit accordingly.
Are dogs allowed at Whiterocks Beach year round?
Dogs have year-round access to the wider beach, but between 1 June and 15 September, dog control orders under Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council restrict access to the area from Arcadia beach eastward toward Dunluce Castle. Outside these dates, the full two-mile stretch is open to dogs, and even during the restriction season the main beach beyond the restricted zone remains accessible with dogs on leads.
What should I know before visiting Whiterocks Beach with my dog?
The most important thing to be aware of is the seasonal dog restriction covering part of the beach from 1 June to 15 September, so keep leads on and stick to the permitted areas during summer. The beach has a free car park with disabled parking, toilets with shower cubicles, and boardwalk access, making it reasonably practical for a day out. It's a busy, popular spot — especially in summer when RNLI lifeguards are on patrol — so expect company from surfers, swimmers and families alongside your fellow dog walkers.
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