Magilligan, Benone Strand
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Magilligan, Benone Strand is a Blue Flag-certified beach located 22.8 km from Causeway Coast and Glens District. The beach holds the Blue Flag award, which requires meeting strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The award is renewed annually by the Foundation…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Magilligan, Benone Strand
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Magilligan, Benone Strand?
Magilligan, Benone Strand is a Blue Flag-certified beach located 22.8 km from Causeway Coast and Glens District. The beach holds the Blue Flag award, which requires meeting strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The award is renewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
May, June, and September offer the best visiting conditions with fewer crowds. July and August are peak season, so expect busier conditions then. Before swimming, check local water safety information with beach staff.
The combination of clean water, good facilities, and safe conditions makes it a solid choice for families and swimmers.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Northern Ireland, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout United Kingdom certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Magilligan, Benone Strand faces S toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
| Feb | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
| Mar | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Apr | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| May | 11°C | 8°C | Med |
| Jun | 13°C | 10°C | Med |
| Jul | 15°C | 12°C | High |
| Aug | 15°C | 12°C | High |
| Sep | 13°C | 10°C | Med |
| Oct | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Nov | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Dec | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
The best time to visit Magilligan, Benone Strand is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 14.6°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 11.6°C in July.
How crowded does Magilligan, Benone Strand get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in United Kingdom, Magilligan, Benone Strand sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Magilligan, Benone Strand open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Magilligan, Benone Strand
Is Magilligan, Benone Strand safe to swim?Magilligan, Benone Strand is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Magilligan, Benone Strand?Peak water temperature at Magilligan, Benone Strand reaches around <span class="inline-stat">11.6°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 5.7°C.
What is the beach like at Magilligan, Benone Strand?Magilligan, Benone Strand on the Northern Ireland coast of United Kingdom. May, June, and September offer the best visiting conditions with fewer crowds. July and August are peak season, so expect busier conditions then. Before swimming, check local water safety information with beach staff.
Does Magilligan, Benone Strand have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Magilligan, Benone Strand meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
Magilligan, Benone Strand sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Transport
Getting to Magilligan, Benone Strand
How do I get to Magilligan, Benone Strand by car?Magilligan, Benone Strand is approximately 22.8 km from Causeway Coast and Glens District. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Magilligan, Benone Strand?The nearest airport is Ballykelly Airport (BOL) (BOL), approximately 14.9 km away.
Can I get to Magilligan, Benone Strand by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Causeway Coast and Glens District.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 55.1635°N, 6.8717°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — United Kingdom |
Frequently Asked Questions
Magilligan, Benone Strand FAQ
Is Magilligan, Benone Strand suitable for children?
Magilligan, Benone Strand is a Blue Flag certified beach in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Magilligan, Benone Strand free to access?
Yes, access to Magilligan, Benone Strand is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Magilligan, Benone Strand?
The best time to visit Magilligan, Benone Strand is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 11.6°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 14.6°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Magilligan, Benone Strand?
Magilligan, Benone Strand is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Magilligan, Benone Strand?
Magilligan, Benone Strand is located in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. It is approximately 22.8 km from Causeway Coast and Glens District. The nearest airport is Ballykelly Airport (BOL) (BOL), 14.9 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in United Kingdom
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in United Kingdom — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore United KingdomWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal — not just a marketing tool.
Read more