Guide that mentions beginner exploration in the inner areas of Portnahapple.
Shallow sheltered Portstewart inlet with kelp, rocks, and parking.
Shallow sheltered Portstewart inlet with kelp, rocks, and parking.
Portnahapple is a shallow sheltered inlet dive near Portstewart with parking close to the entry and enough structure to work well for easy training days. The middle is sandy, while the sides turn into rock walls, overhangs, and kelp, so the site feels simple at the entry but more interesting as you move out. It is a relaxed shore dive with plenty of marine life, especially when you want a short, low-friction north-coast session.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
0m - 8m
Depth Note
The site is shallow, with inner areas around 8 m and a sheltered inlet profile that suits beginner training.
Typical Conditions
Shallow sandy middle, rock walls and overhangs, kelp forests, and a sheltered inlet profile.
Site conditions, restrictions, and access requirements.
Safety Notes
Watch for slippery boulders, cliff jumpers, and sea anglers on the entry path.
Access Restrictions
Reach it from the Strand Road car park via the steep steps, and keep the entry conservative if swell is up.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Good for beginner training, practice dives, and relaxed shore sessions.
Snorkeling
Excellent for snorkeling on calm days because the inlet is shallow and sheltered.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Guide that mentions beginner exploration in the inner areas of Portnahapple.
Directory page with the site's depth, visibility, access, and marine-life summary.
Shore-dive guide with the gully profile, parking, and entry path details.
Operator page for the Portstewart dive center and local north-coast dive context.
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A wave-exposed shore dive on the Blackrock headland.