Season: autumn
Set within the Murlough National Nature Reserve, this is arguably the most beautiful place in County Down. Sheltered from the Irish Sea in a secluded bay, the village of Dundrum sits behind the beach area. There is abundant wildlife to enjoy, with trails and 6,000 year old dunes to explore nearby. You can cycle along a stretch of abandoned railway track on the western edge of the bay. For those interested in history, the evocative ruins of Dundrum Castle stand on a summit behind the village.
What the beach means to Emma.
A view across to Dundrum Inner Bay.