Coastal campsites near Bangor with swimming
Campers can find coastal scenery, plus access to the Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough.
Popular camping styles for Bangor
2 top coastal campsites near Bangor with swimming
Coastal campsites near Bangor with swimming guide
Overview
There is plenty to see and do around this seaside town within easy reach of Belfast. Explore the coastline around Belfast Lough and take in Crawfordsburn Country Park’s beaches, or explore along the east coast of the Ards peninsula, where you will find plenty of seaside camping near golden sands. Explore the shores of the nature reserve at Strangford Lough, with the stately home and gardens at Mount Stewart.
Where to go
Around Bangor
Bangor is a seaside town with direct rail access to Belfast city. A few minutes to the west is Crawfordsburn Country Park, including Helen’s Bay. Drop in to the Ulster Folk and Transport museum in Cultra to visit a recreated village and learn more about old craft and farming traditions of the area, plus a section on vintage transport vehicles, and an excellent exhibition on the Titanic, which was built in the dockyards of Belfast.
Strangford Lough
Strangford Lough is a nature reserve and an ideal location for birdwatching. There are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water whether by canoe or kayak, on a boat trip, or on a ferry across The Narrows to Strangford town to explore the coastal scenery and heritage sites on the Lecale Peninsula. Travel south of Bangor to the 19th-century stately home Mount Stewart House to explore the gardens, set on the shores of Strangford Lough.
Ards Peninsula
On the Ards peninsula to the east, the pier at Donaghadee is a good spot to watch boats coming in and out of the harbour, with views across to Scotland from The Moat on the hill. Take a boat trip from here to the bird sanctuary on the Copeland Islands. There’s a motorhome service point at The Commons, and the best camping is along the east coast beaches of the peninsula near Ballyferris Point—check out Woodlands Caravan Park near the blue flag Millisle Beach, which takes tents and campervans, or Ballywhiskin Holiday Park for pitches for touring vehicles next to the beach and an on-site farm.
When to go
Summers and local festival dates are the busiest times to visit Bangor. If you’re planning to visit during school holidays or over the 12 July holiday, consider booking your campsite in advance.
Know before you go
- Check seasonal times and dates in advance for boat trips and cruises to the Copeland Islands and on Strangford Lough.
- Weather can be unpredictable—be prepared for rain, mist, wind, and cooler temperatures at any time. Biting midges can be a problem in some locations.
- Some campgrounds close for winter or during bad weather.
- Wild camping is not permitted in this area
