The Ultimate North Coast Staycation Guide: Where to Stay on Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast

If you're planning a North Coast staycation in Northern Ireland, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a couples' escape or a weekend away with friends, The Lodge Hotel Coleraine is perfectly located for exploring some of the most beautiful beaches, attractions and seaside towns on the Causeway Coast.

I recently spent an overnight stay there with my mummy and Auntie Margaret, and it couldn't have been a better base for exploring the North Coast. We enjoyed incredible food, one of the best night's sleeps we've had in a hotel and great hospitality from the moment we arrived.

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If you're looking for North Coast accommodation, family friendly hotels near Portrush and Portstewart, or ideas for your next Northern Ireland staycation, here's why I'd recommend adding The Lodge Hotel to your list.

Why The Lodge Hotel is the Perfect Base for a North Coast Staycation

One of the things I loved most about staying at The Lodge Hotel was its location.

Instead of constantly driving from place to place, we were only a short journey from some of the North Coast's best loved attractions, making it the ideal base for anyone planning a Causeway Coast road trip, a family holiday on the North Coast or simply a relaxing weekend away.

Whether you're heading to the beach, visiting the Giant's Causeway or spending the afternoon shopping in Portstewart, everything is within easy reach.

Newly Refurbished Bedrooms You'll Actually Want to Stay In

One thing all three of us agreed on the next morning was how incredibly well we had slept.

Let's be honest. There's nothing worse than booking a hotel only to spend the night tossing and turning because of uncomfortable beds or poor pillows. You always think nowhere compares to your own bed at home, but The Lodge Hotel came very close.

Following a £1.8 million refurbishment by the McKeever family, all 59 bedrooms have been transformed into stylish, modern spaces that feel luxurious without losing their warmth.

If you're searching for family rooms on the North Coast, these are well worth looking at. They're spacious, beautifully finished and ideal for families wanting a comfortable base while exploring the Causeway Coast.

I know the bunkbeds would be a huge hit with my boys. Family rooms are brilliant at The Lodge.

Award Winning Food That's Worth Visiting For

Even if you weren't staying overnight, I'd recommend eating here.

During our visit we enjoyed lunch, dinner and breakfast, and every meal was outstanding.

It's easy to see why Elliot's Bistro won Best Restaurant at the 2025 Causeway Chamber Awards through a public vote. The quality of the food was exceptional, the portions were generous and the service was excellent.

The Chilli Beef deserves a special mention because it was absolutely delicious. You know how I love my wee bit of spice and my Mummy and Margaret had the Sea bass and it was delicious. I also loved how the staff (Chloe Louise) made specific recommendations based on each dish we ordered. It's all those little touches make the difference.

There's also a popular lunchtime carvery, making it a brilliant stop before heading off to explore the North Coast.

Genuine Hospitality

You and I both know hotels are about so much more than beautiful rooms. The staff at The Lodge genuinely made our stay. Everyone was warm, welcoming and couldn't do enough for us. I'd especially like to thank Victor, the Restaurant Manager, and Scott, the Events Manager, whose attention to detail made us feel completely looked after.

Those little interactions are often what turn a nice hotel into one you'll happily recommend to others. I got so many messages on social media mentioning how nice the staff are so I know that this is something that is very important to them. In my opinion it's what makes a place truly special.

Scott Events Manager at The Lodge filled me in on the new "Chatty Hotel" Campaign. I was so impressed by this and can't wait to share more about this on social media.

Little Touches That Make a Difference

The hotel also has a lovely coffee bar in reception that's popular with both guests and locals. It's the perfect place to grab a coffee and a homemade scone before setting off for the day.

There's even an on site hairdresser, which is such a lovely addition. After a windy walk along the beach, you can pop in for a blow dry before dinner. They really have thought of everything.

We would have needed a blow dry at The Lodge after a walk along Benone Beach.

Best Places to Visit During Your North Coast Staycation

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Coleraine is just how many attractions are nearby. The Lodge have listed many tourist attractions on their website and I have also listed some of my favourites below.

Portstewart Strand

Less than 15 minutes from the hotel, Portstewart Strand is one of Northern Ireland's most beautiful beaches and perfect for family walks, paddling or simply enjoying the views.

Castlerock Beach

Another favourite for anyone looking for a quieter beach with stunning coastal scenery.

Benone Beach

A fantastic choice for families with miles of golden sand and plenty of space to explore. I have so many memories of going to this beach when I was a child so I always like to go back there when I am visiting the North Coast.

Whiterocks Beach

Located beside Portrush, Whiterocks Beach is famous for its white limestone cliffs and crystal clear water.

Mussenden Temple

One of the most photographed landmarks in Northern Ireland, offering breathtaking views across the Atlantic Ocean. Many couples choose to have their wedding photos there and I can see why.

Giant's Causeway

Just 25 minutes away, the Giant's Causeway is one of Northern Ireland's most iconic attractions and an absolute must visit during any North Coast holiday. If you haven't visited yet then you need to add this to your bucket list. It's breathtaking in every way.

Explore Portrush

From cafés and boutique shopping to fish and chips overlooking the sea, Portrush is always worth a visit. Families will also love Curry's Amusements and the stunning coastal walks. A visit to Curry's formally know as Barry's is something that every child remembers. My brothers and I still talk about our visit there as children.

The Jet Centre

Only six minutes from the hotel, the Jet Centre is ideal for families, offering bowling, mini golf, a cinema, soft play and arcades. With our Irish weather we always need to have indoor activities when the rain starts.

My Verdict

If you're planning a North Coast staycation, looking for hotels in Coleraine or searching for the perfect base to explore the Causeway Coast, The Lodge Hotel ticks every box.

Its central location makes it easy to discover some of Northern Ireland's most spectacular beaches, world famous attractions and charming seaside towns, while returning each evening to comfortable surroundings, outstanding food and genuinely welcoming service.

What stood out most for me was that everything felt effortless. From the warm welcome when we arrived to the quality of every meal and one of the best night's sleep I've had in a hotel, it was the kind of stay that leaves you already planning your return.

Whether you're visiting as a couple, enjoying a family holiday, or simply looking for a relaxing weekend break in Northern Ireland, The Lodge Hotel offers everything you need in one place.

For anyone planning a Causeway Coast holiday, I would have no hesitation recommending it.

My Mummy and Auntie Margaret loved the relaxing atmosphere in the hotel and they both said they would love to return. I loved spending time with them and will cherish the memories. If you would like to stay at The Lodge or any of the the McKeever Hotels then use my code Digg15 for 15% off your Bed & Breakfast stay. (Code can not be used in conjunction with existing offers or promotions) Click here to book your stay.

Hope you are having a lovely summer and making the most of the beautoful places we have on our doorstep.

Caroline