Downhill is an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and is also a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) offering opportunities for nature walks and sightings of bird life amongst a backdrop of cascading waterfalls, extensive sand dunes, and the prominent Mussenden Temple, one of the most photographed buildings in Northern Ireland. The Temple offers breathtaking views of the North Coast and dramatic 18th century ruins waiting to be explored.
This stretch of beach is one of the most scenic in Ireland and visitors can enjoy views to Counties Donegal, Antrim and Londonderry. The nearest town to Downhill Beach is Castlerock, a small coastal town offering accommodation, pubs, restaurants, and excellent rail and transport links to Coleraine, Belfast and Dublin. Other nearby destinations includes the seaside resorts of Portrush and Portstewart.