Beach and Coastal Path

Portstewart combines a long sandy beach with a coastal path that leads into the town centre and onwards towards Portrush. The range of options is worth considering when choosing a destination: it spans a nature reserve and surfing, local history, golf and art. If you’re considering Portstewart for a short stay, you can first decide whether the coast, outdoor activities or culture should be the focus.

Portstewart Strand is a two-mile stretch of golden sand and also an important nature reserve with signposted paths. Surfing is possible on the beach; conditions for activities may vary. These offer two distinct ways to plan your day: spending time on the sandy beach or on the signposted paths through the reserve.

The Port Path starts on the right-hand side of Strand Road in Portstewart, about 500 metres before the entrance to Portstewart Strand. It follows a paved cliff path into the town centre and then continues along a signposted coastal route towards Portrush. Terrain and conditions, as well as signage and access arrangements, may change.

History and Art

Portstewart Town Hall was built in 1934/35 to designs by Benjamin Cowser. It is considered a distinctive building of significant local interest and social importance. Its precise construction dates and named designer make the Town Hall a specific point of reference in the town’s history; its social importance adds a local perspective to its architectural significance.

St Patrick’s Well offers a link to a more distant past: the well was thought to have supplied fresh water to the Stone Age inhabitants of the sand dunes. Unlike the Town Hall, which is dated to 1934/35, this is a historical attribution. The two places therefore represent different aspects of the town’s history: a dated building and a possible earlier use of the well.

Flowerfield Arts Centre is Portstewart’s arts centre and offers pottery classes. Alongside the town’s architectural and local history, it provides a creative offering. Individual classes may vary; check the current programme before planning a visit if you’d like to include pottery in your trip.

Golf and Events

The Strand Course is a true links golf course. For travellers interested in golf, this is a specific feature that may factor into their choice of destination. Course details may be updated by the operator; for specific information, check its latest updates.

The Red Sails Festival is the largest annual event organised by the Portstewart Community Association. At the 2026 edition, the Blessing of the Boats took place at the Portstewart bandstand on Sunday, 19 July; it commemorated those who had died at sea. If you’d like events to influence the timing of your visit, check the dates for your travel year.

Discover more destinations: Coleraine, Portrush, Aghadowey, Portballintrae

Return to the main travel overview: Coleraine.