‘Sublime views over the Atlantic’: Why this Northern Irish resort is on of the greatest UK seaside towns to visit in 2026

Whatever your favourite type of seaside spot – unspoiled shoreline or established resort, vibrant music scene or miles from anywhere – the UK’s coastline has you covered. So far in Time Out’s 2026 guide to the country’s greatest UK seaside towns, we’ve spotlighted top spot Saundersfoot, underrated Welsh town Cardigan, creative hubs Hastings and Folkestone, and Alnmouth’s peaceful sunbathing.

Next up is Portrush in County Antrim, which ranked seventh on Time Out’s list for its wild coastline, sublime beaches and perfectly pruned putting course. 

Royal Portrush Golf Club sits in a triangle of giant sandhills in the Causeway Coast and Glens area of outstanding natural beauty. Teeing off, you need only turn west to spot the hills of Donegal in the distance, north for the Isle of Islay and Southern Hebrides and east for Giant’s Causeway and the Skerries. If that wasn’t enough, the courses are overlooked by the ruins of the 13th century Dunluce Castle, which gives its name to Dunluce Links, famously one of the most tricky golf courses in the world and the site of the 153rd Open Championship last year. 

If your idea of a relaxing coastal break doesn’t involve improving your handicap, have no fear. Portrush has plenty to offer besides greens and bunkers. For starters, there are the jaw-dropping views over the Atlantic. The town is perched along Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route, with three handsome sand beaches within walking distance. Whiterocks Beach, the finest of Portrush’s three bays, is a little outside of the main town but absolutely worth the short journey to its Blue Flag-designated waters, rugged cliffs and three mile blanket of sand. The spectacular sunrise is worth setting at least one early morning alarm for.

Plus, the town itself is heaving with independent stores, lively bars and artsy venues to get acquainted with. The Whitehouse department store dates back to 1891 and is stocked with art, homewares and clothing from British and Irish brands. The playhouse, a charming art-deco cinema, is worth a visit too. Just a short drive out of town (we’re talking under 15 minutes) you’ll find the Bushmills Distillery and UNESCO World Heritage Site Giant’s Causeway. 

Feeling peckish after all that exploration? There’s no shortage of great foodie spots in Portrush. For drinks, The Harbour Bar (one of the oldest bars on the North Coast) and Kiwi’s Brew Bar are both guaranteed good times. After your aperitivo, head for Shanty, a locally-loved seafood restaurant in an old lifeboat shelter for food.

🏖️ Check out Time Out’s full list of the 16 best UK seaside towns to visit in 2026.

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