Beaches

Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is famous as the land where the mountains sweep down to the sea. Our rugged coastline is home to sweeping views, pristine sands, and the fresh sea air. Towns and villages along the coastline offer a warm welcome to sea lovers from around the world.

If you want to experience adventure on the open waters, or simply enjoy a peaceful day at the beach with the family, you’ll find what you’re looking for with three Blue Flag beaches at Murlough, Cranfield and Tyrella.

A Victorian Seaside Escape

Based around a seafront promenade, the town of Newcastle has been a favourite seaside escape since the Victorian era. The beach itself sits in the shadow of the Mournes, creating one of the most scenic backdrops to a day at the beach you’ll find anywhere in the world.

You’ll get an authentic seaside experience with the modern comforts of a bustling town centre. After a day paddling in the ocean, why not warm up at one of Newcastle’s many cafes and restaurants?

Sand Dunes at Murlough

The shingle beach and four mile strand at Murlough were shaped over thousands of years by wind, rain and glacial activity. Today, its majestic dunes are home to a wide variety of butterfly species. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.

With the Mourne Mountains as a backdrop, the wild fauna around Murlough gives way to a stunning beach, creating a truly unique contrast of sights and sounds.

Cranfield Beach

An area of special scientific interest, Cranfield Beach sits at the mouth of Carlingford Lough. The south facing beach is popular with families and water sports lovers alike. Walk the golden sands and admire the ancient rock formations which are rich with ancient fossils.

The beach is ideal for family fun, with lifeguards on duty during peak seasons. The Mae Murray Foundation offers accessible swimming equipment. There’s also onsite parking, showers, toilets and a children’s play park.

Cranfield Beach is an inclusive beach, run in partnership with Mae Murray Foundation, which allows people of all ages and abilities to take part, have fun, and be included. Inclusive beaches offer free beach equipment loan schemes including all-terrain wheelchairs and mobility aids. Membership is free and more information about joining is available here and the Mae Murray Foundation.

Blue Flag Beach at Tyrella

Just outside of Dundrum, Tyrella Beach offers two kilometres of flat sand and twenty five hectares of wild dunes. It’s been given the special Blue Flag award for the cleanliness of its waters.

The beach is a car free zone, with a lifeguard on duty during the summer months. The dunes make up part of a special conservation area, offering scenic walks amongst native flora and fauna.

Aquatic Adventures and Warrenpoint Beach

Set on the shores of Carlingford Lough, Warrenpoint Beach is popular for lovers of water sports. Try your hand at jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing or pier jumping, against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains.

The beach is also incredibly popular with walkers, who want to take in the sea air and scenic views, right on the doorstep of the Victorian Warrenpoint town.