Portstewart is an elegant seaside resort on the north coast of Northern Ireland. It became popular with the Victorian middle-classes — and still has much of that Victorian seaside architectural charm — due to its spectacular beach, the two mile long Portstewart Strand. A Blue Flag beauty, this golden sandy stretch is on the Atlantic Ocean, and with its sand dunes and rips, it’s popular for surfers and paddle boarders, as well as more bucket-and-spade type visitors. It also has a championship golf club. Whether you’re here for the golf of the beach, we think that the best places to stay in Portstewart are those with the best ocean views.

Some of the best hotels in Portstewart are right on the Promenade, which scoops around the picturesque harbour and the headland, all the way to the beach. Just off the Promenade is Portstewart Crescent, an outdoor play area and park with paddling pools, a boating lake, a musical fountain, bandstand, cafes and a go karting track. Families can easily while away hours here, followed by award-winning ice cream at Morelli’s, or a meal in one of the Promenade’s many cafes, restaurants and bars.

The town also has an arts centre, converted from one of the town’s elegant Victorian mansions, and a castle.Portstewart has three golf courses, all run by the same club, the Portstewart Golf Club, which means 54 holes worth of variety for visiting golfers. Plus the lively Atlantic wind. Which also provides plenty of variety for surfers. 

As with many seaside locations the best places to stay in Portstweart are especially busy during the peak summer months. If you plan to visit during July and August you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to stay in Portstewart

For a Seaside Escape

• Saltwater House is a crisp, white and elegant B&B, in a wonderful spot for views of Portstewart Strand. It has just five guest rooms, all decorated in white and pale greys, with a vaguely nautical air. Breakfast is served on an outdoor terrace when possible, and there’s a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. A great pick for Portstewart itself, but also popular with golfers and walkers. Adults only.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Londonderry’s City of Derry Airport is the closest airport to Portstewart, about half an hour away by car or taxi, or an hour and a half by bus. Belfast International Airport is about an hour away by car, or about three hours by public transport. If you’re travelling from the United Kingdom’s larger island you can cross by ferry, between Cairnryan and Belfast.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Portstewart is most popular in the summer, with families flocking to its Blue Flag beach. But there’s a surfing contingent drawn here year round, and if you like your coastal walks blustery, then there’s no reason you shouldn’t join them year round. If you’re here for the golf you may want to stick to the fairer seasons, but there’s plenty of light and sunshine from April or May onwards.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search and consider all the best places to stay in County Londonderry
• Consider staying in neighbouring Portrush or even Londonderry
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.