Want to feel that salty sea air in your hair and take in some breathtaking sea views? Whether you’re in search of a surf spot or somewhere to make sandcastles and have a picnic, Kinsale is the perfect place to be for an enjoyable day by the sea.
If you’re visiting Kinsale in the summer, the top of your to-do list has to be exploring our beautiful coastline that marks the start of the famous Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll absolutely fall in love with all the scenic beaches and bays!
The Dock
On a hot summer’s day, grab the gang and head to The Dock Beach where you can walk along the beautiful grasslands to explore the ruin of James Fort and chill on the beautiful sandy beach that offers breathtaking views of Charles Fort, a 17th Century star-shaped fort located directly across the harbour.
You’ll find kayak and SUP rentals available on the beach almost all year round from Atlantic Offshore Adventures and if it’s a thirst quencher your after, head to the Dock Bar which sits just at the entrance to the beach and offers stunning views of Kinsale town from their outdoor seating area.
Sandycove
Popular with the locals, Sandycove is a real hidden gem for those in the know. Located just 5km from Kinsale, this curved rocky beach is popular for swimming and you can explore the cove in kayaks, SUPs and snorkels.
Sandycove Island or ‘Goat Island’ as it’s known by the locals is a protected island and natural ecosystem for birds, bugs, sea-life and, yup, you guessed it, goats! Sandycove is also home to a small number of seals that can be seen bobbing their heads up to take a peek at the visitors.
Garrettstown
With golden sand for the chilled out sunbathers and clear blue water for swimmers and surfers, it’s no surprise that so may visit here all year round!
It’s a favourite spot for a picnic, a game of beach volleyball, a safe swimming spot as well as a hugely popular surfing beach for beginners and intermediates. You’ll find multiple surf rental providers and lesson providers like Garretstown Surf School happy to help you get set up when the surf’s up!
During peak seasons you’ll find a variety of food and beverage trucks dotted along the beach-side providing everything from coffees, ice-creams, acai bowls and pizzas.
Garrylucas
If you’re a keen kitesurfer then you don’t want to miss the chance to visit Garrylucas beach. It has become a hot spot for kite surfing as it offers ideal conditions with a wide yet enclosed bay and regular winds.
Located just 500m from Garretstown beach, it’s a large sandy beach with views of the Old Head of Kinsale and some of the most stunning sunset spots around.
It’s also very popular with walkers with the option to stroll or scoot along the wide footpath that stretches along the beachfront or take a hike along the cliff front where you will be treated to a mix of scenery from green rolling hills to vast glistening seascapes.
A pitch and putt course, tennis court and camp site can be found just across from the beach as well as a seasonal cafe and wine bar serving up tapas and pizza.
Robert’s Cove Beach & Bay
Roberts Cove Beach is another great bay for swimming and with a sandy beach, its perfect to enjoy a picnic on. Its also a popular spot for snorkeling, to spot fish and crabs drifting in and out of the seaweed. Set between gently rolling hills, walkers can enjoy breathtaking sea views as they explore the cliff top walks. The local dive centre offers a wide range of PADI certified dive courses for those looking to gain a lifelong qualification to explore!
Oysterhaven Bay
Hop in your car and head for Oysterhaven Bay. Sheltered by a south facing inlet, Oysterhaven Beach is set between low rocky cliffs and is home to Oysterhaven Bay Activity Centre offering wind-surfing, sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) rentals and lessons for all ages. It’s also a hugely popular spot over the summer months for kids camps.
Coolmain Beach
Coolmain Beach, also known as Harbour View Beach, is a relatively quiet beach just 20 minutes drive from Kinsale. With beautiful powdery sand and crystal-clear water it’s the perfect place to explore on a sunny day.
There is a long stretch of expansive sandy beach which is ideal for young kids and sandcastle building but caution is advised when swimming here as there can be strong currents. This dog-friendly beach is also a popular spot for bird watching and beach fishing.
Howe Strand
This quiet and secluded beach is a popular spot for seaweed foraging, swimming, cliff jumping and, under the right conditions, surfing. This small cove is a bay of tranquility and a safe place to bring the kids – if you can get in early and grab a parking spot!
The beach is small and there is an old ruined coastguard station on the cliff above that was burnt and damaged during the War of Independence which gives this strand a little drama and intrigue.
It’s the perfect spot to escape to and enjoy the peace and quiet as you watch the sun go down over Courtmacsherry Bay.
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