Discover secret viewpoints, local pubs, and hidden beaches along this world-famous drive.
The Causeway Coastal Route regularly appears on lists of the world's greatest road trips – a 120-mile stretch of Northern Ireland's north coast connecting Belfast to Londonderry, passing the Giant's Causeway, dramatic cliffs, medieval castles, and picturesque villages. Most visitors focus on the major attractions: Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle. But the route's real magic lies in the lesser-known stops – quiet beaches, hidden viewpoints, local pubs, and places where you might be the only visitor.
As a local guide who has driven this route hundreds of times, I've discovered dozens of hidden gems that never appear in guidebooks. Here are ten of my favorites – places that showcase the Causeway Coast's beauty, character, and local charm without the crowds.
1. Murlough Bay
While not exactly unknown, Murlough Bay remains remarkably uncrowded compared to nearby Giant's Causeway. This National Trust property offers one of the most spectacular coastal views in Northern Ireland – dramatic cliffs, a curved bay, and on clear days, views across to Scotland just 13 miles away.
The narrow winding road down to the bay deters some visitors (drive carefully and watch for oncoming traffic). But this adds to the bay's appeal – you'll often have the place largely to yourself. The walk from the car park to the viewing point takes about 15 minutes and rewards with panoramic vistas.
Game of Thrones fans: Several scenes were filmed here, though it's beautiful regardless of television connections. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with arguably the Causeway Coast's best view.
2. Portbraddan
Portbraddan claims to have Ireland's smallest church – St. Gobban's Church, which seats just six people. But the village's real appeal is its setting: a tiny cluster of houses tucked into a cove, white-walled buildings contrasting against dark cliffs and blue sea.
Park at the small area above the village (accessed via a narrow lane from the main road) and walk down to the cove. The church is usually locked, but its exterior is photogenic enough. Walk along the beach if tide permits, and soak up the atmosphere of a genuinely unspoiled coastal hamlet.
Nearby Whitepark Bay (see below) is more accessible, but Portbraddan offers intimate charm that larger beaches can't match.
3. The Wee House of Malin
Between Ballintoy and Giant's Causeway, a small roadside building catches many people's eye but few stop. The Wee House of Malin is a traditional Irish cottage that now serves as a seasonal café and craft shop.
What makes it special isn't just the building (though it's cute) but the setting. The house sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean, with outdoor seating offering dramatic coastal views. Stop for coffee and homemade treats while watching waves crash against cliffs. The owners are welcoming, the atmosphere unpretentious, and the view spectacular.
Open seasonally (typically April-October), weather permitting. Check ahead if making a special trip, but if passing during season, this is an ideal quick stop.
4. Kinbane Castle
Kinbane Castle's ruins sit on a dramatic limestone headland jutting into the sea. Unlike more famous Dunluce Castle, Kinbane sees relatively few visitors despite offering spectacular coastal drama.
The walk from the car park involves descending steep steps (about 150) to the headland. This deters some visitors, but those who make the descent are rewarded with castle ruins in a stunning setting – waves crashing on three sides, views up and down the coast, and photographic opportunities at every turn.
The climb back up those steps is strenuous, so this isn't suitable for all fitness levels. But for those capable, Kinbane offers coastal drama without crowds. Visit late afternoon when sunlight illuminates the limestone cliffs beautifully.
5. Whitepark Bay
Whitepark Bay is technically well-known, but most visitors view it from the main road and don't stop. Those who do descend to the beach discover a stunning 2-mile crescent of white sand backed by dunes and cliffs.
Park at either end of the bay and walk the beach. The south end (accessible via steps from the car park) leads toward impressive cliffs. The north end connects to Portbraddan via the beach at low tide.
What makes Whitepark special is space – even on busy days, the beach's length means you can find solitude. Bring a picnic, walk the sand, explore the dunes, and enjoy what feels like a private beach despite being easily accessible.
6. The Fullerton Arms, Ballintoy
Most visitors photograph Ballintoy Harbour then move on. Locals know to stop at the Fullerton Arms, a traditional pub in Ballintoy village (a short drive from the harbor).
This is a proper local pub – no tourist gimmicks, no theme park atmosphere, just good beer, hearty food, and welcoming staff. The pub's walls display local history photos, and conversation with locals provides insights no guidebook offers.
Order fish and chips (excellent), grab a pint, and experience authentic Causeway Coast hospitality. The Fullerton Arms represents what makes Northern Ireland special – genuine warmth, quality without pretension, and the kind of pub where strangers become friends over shared stories.
7. The Gobbins Cliff Path
Technically off the Causeway Coast proper (it's near Islandmagee, south of the main route), the Gobbins Cliff Path deserves inclusion as one of Northern Ireland's most spectacular coastal walks.
Reopened in 2015 after decades of closure, the Gobbins involves walking along tubular bridges attached to cliff faces, with Atlantic waves crashing below. It's dramatic, exhilarating, and unlike anything else in Northern Ireland.
Advance booking is essential (tours led by trained guides only), and you need reasonable fitness and no fear of heights. But for those capable, this is the Causeway Coast's most exciting experience. Tours cost around £12 and must be booked through the visitor centre.
8. Bendoo Viewpoint
A small layby on the coast road between Cushendall and Cushendun offers what might be the Causeway Coastal Route's most accessible stunning view. Most drivers pass without noticing, but those who stop find dramatic coastal scenery with minimal effort.
The viewpoint looks across Murlough Bay toward Fair Head and Scotland beyond. Interpretive panels explain the geology and history. There's space for a few cars, making this an ideal quick stop for photographs without crowds or walking.
Bonus: This stretch of coast road between Cushendall and Cushendun is arguably the route's most scenic – narrow, winding, hugging cliffs, with ocean on one side and mountains on the other.
9. The Old Bushmills Distillery Shop & Cafe
Everyone knows Bushmills Distillery, but fewer discover the original distillery shop and café in Bushmills village. While the main distillery tour is excellent, the village shop offers whiskey tastings in a more intimate setting, plus a café serving excellent coffee and food.
This is where locals go – less touristy than the main distillery, more personal service, and you can browse whiskey selections while chatting with knowledgeable staff. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts wanting to explore Bushmills beyond the standard tour.
10. Larrybane Quarry
Just before Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a small car park accesses Larrybane Quarry. This former chalk quarry offers dramatic coastal views, relatively easy walking, and Game of Thrones filming locations (Renly Baratheon's camp), yet remains quiet compared to the nearby rope bridge.
The short walk from the car park leads to clifftop views, the quarry itself, and access to coastal paths extending in both directions. If Carrick-a-Rede's crowds or ticket price deter you, Larrybane offers similar coastal drama for free and with space to breathe.
Exploring Beyond the Obvious
These hidden gems share common characteristics – they reward curiosity, require slightly more effort than major attractions, and offer authentic experiences without crowds. The Causeway Coastal Route's magic lies not just in famous stops but in the entire journey – winding roads, sudden views, impromptu stops, discoveries that feel personal.
Tips for Finding Your Own Hidden Gems
- Drive slowly and watch for parking areas with coastal access
- Talk to locals in pubs and cafes for recommendations
- Don't hesitate to explore small side roads (but respect private property)
- Visit major attractions early or late, then explore quieter spots midday
- Check tide times for beach access
- Pack picnic supplies for spontaneous scenic stops
- Allow extra time in your itinerary for unplanned discoveries
The Causeway Coastal Route deserves its fame, but its lesser-known stops often provide the most memorable moments – quiet beaches, friendly locals, views you have to yourself, and the satisfaction of discovering something that feels like your secret. That's the beauty of this route – there's always another hidden gem waiting for those willing to look beyond the obvious.
Consider joining us on a private Causeway Coastal Route tour where we can show you both the famous attractions and our favorite hidden spots that make this drive truly unforgettable.
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