Portrush Coastal Zone welcomes record 61,315 visitors in 2026

Portrush Coastal Zone has recorded its highest visitor numbers, welcoming 61,315 people during 2026.

The marine education centre, operated by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), provides interactive exhibits exploring Northern Ireland’s marine wildlife and coastal habitats.

The latest figures also reveal that 1,310 people participated in educational activities during 37 school and community group visits.

New marine wildlife attractions

Visitors enjoyed several new and improved attractions during the year, including updated displays, interpretation panels and an immersive marine wildlife video produced by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group.

One of the main attractions was the display of the largest preserved thresher shark in the UK and Ireland.

The centre also showcased developing small-spotted catshark egg cases, allowing visitors to observe shark embryos and learn about their life cycle.

Supporting marine conservation

Portrush Coastal Zone hosted the launch of Northern Ireland’s Elasmobranch Conservation Strategy 2026–2035.

The strategy aims to improve the protection of sharks, skates and rays in local waters.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir welcomed the centre’s record visitor numbers.

He said the success demonstrated growing public interest in Northern Ireland’s marine environment and highlighted the importance of education and conservation.

Education and community outreach

Beyond the centre, staff continued delivering educational activities and supporting marine conservation initiatives.

These included marine awareness training for beach wardens, biodiversity events and partnerships with environmental organisations.

DAERA said the centre would continue helping visitors understand Northern Ireland’s marine habitats and the importance of protecting marine wildlife.

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