Ballintoy Harbour

10 hours ago

2 min read

📍 Ballintoy, County Antrim

💷 Free

🅿️ Free parking at the harbour

🚻 Public toilets

♿️ Accessible toilet available, but the rocky coastline is not wheelchair or buggy friendly

☕️ Seasonal café nearby

🧒 Best for confident walkers and children who enjoy exploring

🗺️ 56 Harbour Road, Ballintoy, Ballycastle, BT54 6NA

What You’ll Find

Ballintoy is a small working harbour surrounded by dramatic cliffs, rocky islands and little coves.

The kids can explore around the harbour, watch the boats and scramble over the rocks. There are lots of interesting little places to discover, but close supervision is definitely needed beside the water and on the uneven rocks.

It is also a brilliant place for rock pooling when the tide is out, so bring a bucket and see what the kids can find.

Ballintoy Harbour was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, which might make it even more exciting for the grown-ups!

For the Grown Ups

There is a small seasonal café near the harbour where you can stop for something to eat or drink. Opening times can vary, so I would still bring snacks and drinks, especially outside the summer months.

There are picnic tables around the harbour, but this is also a lovely place to bring a picnic blanket and find a spot overlooking the sea.

Why We Loved It

✅ Completely free to visit

✅ Beautiful views in every direction

✅ Plenty of rocks and little coves for the kids to explore

✅ A simple outdoor adventure without needing lots of planning

✅ Perfect for combining with another Causeway Coast attraction

Wee Adventurer Top Tips

⭐️ The road leading down to the harbour is very narrow and winding, so take your time

⭐️ Parking is limited and it can get extremely busy during weekends and school holidays

⭐️ Wear proper shoes—the rocks can be uneven and slippery

⭐️ Bring a bucket for rock pooling

⭐️ Keep children close beside the harbour and water

⭐️ Check the weather before visiting as it is very exposed

⭐️ A baby carrier will be much easier than a buggy if you plan to explore beyond the harbour

Overall Verdict

Ballintoy Harbour is a beautiful little stop along the Causeway Coast and a great choice for families who enjoy simple outdoor adventures.

There may not be play equipment or organised activities, but give the kids rocks, water and space to explore and they will usually create their own fun! It is perfect for a picnic, a short coastal walk or as part of a full day exploring the north coast.

Have You Visited?

Have you explored Ballintoy Harbour with your wee adventurers? Let us know what they enjoyed most and tag @WeeAdventurers in your family adventures!