White Park Bay

White Park Bay is an arc of white sand between two headlands on the North Antrim coast, ten minutes' drive from the Giant's Causeway and backed by ancient dunes that shelter orchids, butterflies, seabirds and otters. It suits long walks, picnics, sandcastles and fossil spotting, with room to spread out even on a busy day; cattle graze the site, so dogs must stay on a lead. The Trust warns that the cliff between the bay and Portbradden is unstable after a rockfall: avoid that area and only cross along the beach at low tide. Reviewers love the open space and rate it among the best beaches in Northern Ireland, though dangerous rip currents make swimming unsafe. Tips from visitors: the path down involves steep steps and a stiff climb back up, expect cows on the sand, and the small free car park has no toilets and soon fills, so return later if it is full.