Portavogie derives its name from Port an Bhogaigh, which translated means "harbour of the bog". This quiet fishing village is the second largest fishing port next to Kilkeel and the fleet of trawlers provides a fascinating sight with daily comings and goings.

The village is famous for its prawns and herring. The talk here is of boats and the sea day in, day out. A visit to this key fishing port provides opportunities both to relax and enjoy the magnificent waterscape views.

The recently built Portavogie Centre offers excellent three star guesthouse accommodation, a Chinese Restaurant, visitor facilities and outdoor play-area for children. Portavogie offers the ideal location to explore the marine wildlife, flora and fauna so unique to Strangford Lough. It is also an excellent base to take a relaxing coastal drive along the scenic Ards Peninsula and to visit other historic villages on this Coastal plain.

A little inland is Kirkistown International Circuit, a former airfield, now the venue for regular car and motorbike races which are extremely popular in the summer months.

Just a few miles from Portavogie is an excellent 18 hole golf course - Kirkistown Castle Golf Club, as well as the golden sandy beaches and dunes at Cloughey.