June 2013

Tyrella is a long and open expanse of beach – good for long walks but be prepared to swim in wavy water. The water here is fresh, clear and sandy under foot. When we visited there was a stiff breeze and the swimming was more riding the waves than anything else.

Given that this is a good place to bring children who will enjoy jumping and splashing, but do watch those waves.

There is some shelter in the dunes at the back of the beach and from the car park you can pick up various paths leading you to sheltered grassy areas which are good for picnics. If you stick to the beach you would be well advised to bring a windbreak.

Lifeguards are on duty during the summer but weren’t there when we visited – check locally for details. There are toilets beyond the lifeguard station, again closed, but presumably open in July/August. Tyrella has a reasonably sized car park (with a charge of £4.00 for a car in July / August) which has access to the beach for buggies and wheelchairs.

Blue Flag beach

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Directions: From Newcastle take the A2 toward Belfast. Just as you enter the village of Clough you will see a right turn onto the A2 signposted Tyrella. Continue on this road until you come to the Tyrella car park on your right hand side