Nestled right on the golden sands of Portstewart Strand—seriously, you keep driving until you need to park right on the beach to get here—Harry’s Shack isn’t just a place to eat. It’s an experience, a breath of salty sea air, and a memory in the making. This North Coast gem feels like it was made for windswept walks and lazy afternoons spent with good food, better views, and a laid-back vibe that’s second to none. Even when it’s a bit chilly outside, they have a roaring fire to take the edge off.
Harry’s Shack aims to keep things local, simple, and always seasonal. The fish? Caught right out of those very waters. The veg? Straight from nearby farms. The menu? It changes depending on what’s best and brightest that day.
We made a reservation (which is advised even during the off-season, just in case), parked the car on the beach —and be warned, the tide comes in close, and it’s not uncommon to see a car slowly sinking into the sand as the water approaches (wouldn’t do great with my wee electric car now would it?). Luckily, when we were there, a staff member did a polite call-out to move the cars before they got washed away. The fire was roaring, and the place felt like a well-kept pro surfer’s kitchen and living room. Padron peppers and fish tacos were dropped at the table, along with a few other small plates. I remember thinking, “Is there a way I can order seven or eight things off the menu without seeming greedy?” In the end, what I ordered was perfect.
Others around us were dining or chilling out with some wine, as the sun set and the waves crept closer to the last remaining cars on the beach. It’s a great spot on the North Coast that’s always worth a visit. With their daily changing menu, you’d never get bored of what’s on offer. And when it’s slightly warmer, they have a huge terrace that still fills up fast—so get in quick!
Just imagine: A day on the North Coast filled with lazy coffee’s and ice cream ends with a dander on the beach. Now you’ve just wandered from the sand, cheeks rosy from the breeze, hair slightly salty you step into Harry’s Shack, and instantly, you’re hit with the scent of fresh fish tacos, a warm fire and no real reason to leave. Class!
Find Harry’s Shack on Google Maps.
So next time you’re up on the North Coast, don’t just pass by—swing in, grab a table, and let yourself soak it all in. After all, it’s not every day you get to feast with a front-row seat to the wild Atlantic.
