Rathlin Island Beach (Church Bay)

Less than 10 kilometres off Ballycastle, on the north coast of County Antrim, is the “L” shaped Rathlin Island. Measuring a modest 9.7km in length this rugged little island is home to a couple of sandy beaches.

The easiest of these to get to for most visitors is Church Bay which sits within the shelter of the breakwaters that protect the harbour. This beach is named after St Thomas’ church which lies on the edge of the water to the north of the harbour.

With a crescent of coarse sand, calm, clear water out front, and a clutch of cottages to the rear the beach here is quite idyllic. Church Bay also has the advantage over the Rathlin Island’s other beaches of having some facilities. In fact there are a couple of eateries and a kids playground just behind.