Portcoon Jetty is a quiet, historic coastal pier and cove situated right next to the Giant’s Causeway near Bushmills, offering one of the best things to do with kids in Bushmills. Operating as a natural sea cove and historic boat landing landmark, it allows families to discover dramatic basalt rock formations, hidden sea caves, and tidal waters away from the main tourist crowds.

Prices start from £0.00 as visiting Portcoon Jetty, exploring the cove, and walking along the coastal footpaths is completely free for all visitors. Free or low-cost parking options nearby in Bushmills or near the Giant's Causeway boundary make it an economical addition to a family day out along the Causeway Coast.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this outdoor coastal spot combines wild geology with sea air. Children can search for sea life in tidal rock pools, observe crashing waves against ancient stone piers, and venture towards nearby coastal sea caves under careful supervision.

What are the key features for families?

• Interactive Exhibits: Natural coastal geology, tide pools, and historic stone pier architecture that serve as an outdoor classroom.
• Educational Day Out: Children learn how ancient volcanic activity created dramatic basalt columns and marine sea caves along the Atlantic edge.
• Sensory Play and Nature: Sound of roaring ocean swells, salty sea breezes, cool stone surfaces, and textured tide pool life.
• Outdoor Exploration: Direct connection to the Causeway Coast Way footpaths, leading to dramatic headland viewpoints and hidden coves.

What are the main highlights kids will love?

• Portcoon Cave Exploration: Viewing the entrance to Portcoon Cave, a magnificent natural sea cave carved out by sea waves over centuries.
• Tidal Rock Pool Hunting: Searching shallow stone basins near the jetty for sea anemones, small crabs, limpets, and tiny sea snails.
• The Historic Stone Jetty: Walking down the historic stone pier where boats historically landed passengers visiting the coast.
• Atlantic Wave Watching: Watching powerful ocean waves roll in and spray against the volcanic basalt rocks surrounding the cove.
• Scenic Coastal Hiking: Walking along the cliffside footpaths that connect Portcoon Cove directly with the Giant’s Causeway.

Beyond the Main Attraction

• Giant’s Causeway: Located 0.3 miles east, featuring thousands of interlocking basalt columns and an interactive visitor centre.
• Old Bushmills Distillery: Situated 2.5 miles south in Bushmills, offering historic tours and local shopping.
• Dunluce Castle: Positioned 5 miles west, featuring dramatic medieval cliff-edge castle ruins.
• Runkerry Beach: Located 1 mile west, offering a wide golden sand bay and sand dune walking trails.