Cullenstown Beach is one of the quieter beaches in Wexford during the winter months, but it comes alive on warm spring and summer days.
And, while Cullenstown might be better known online for the ornately decorated ‘Shell Cottage’, its beach is a gorgeous little spot with some lovely views out towards the Hook Peninsula.
In the guide below, you’ll find info on parking, swimming and things to look out for while you’re there (yes, that includes the Saltee Sauna).
Some quick need-to-knows about Cullenstown Beach
Although a visit to Cullenstown Beach in County Wexford is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.
1. Location
Located to the east of the Hook Peninsula and Bannow Bay, Cullenstown beach is a 20-minute drive from Kilmore Quay, a 30-minute drive from Wexford Town and a 35-minute drive from Rosslare.
2. Parking
Parking is really easy here and there’s plenty of space. Just head down the main road from Cooleskin and you’ll see the turn-off on the left-hand side (here on Google Maps). The parking spaces overlook the beach so you’ll get a nice view from the moment you arrive (and it’s nice if the weather is bad too!).
3. Swimming
Holding a Green Coast Award, the water quality at Cullenstown Strand is excellent and the landscape unspoiled, making it a nice spot for a dip. Do note, however, that there’s no lifeguards on duty here, so only enter the water if you’re a capable swimmer. Understanding water safety is absolutely crucial when visiting beaches in Ireland. Please take a minute to read these water safety tips. Cheers!
4. Toilets
Toilets are found right to the west side of the car park and are easy to spot.
About Cullenstown Beach
Cullenstown Beach forms part of the small village of Cullenstown itself and, while it isn’t a place you’d say was lively, it’s a nice place to get away from the rush of everyday life.
And though it may not be obvious when you’re standing on its award-winning beach, one of the most significant events in Irish history occurred just a couple of kilometres away at Bannow Bay when the Normans landed there in 1169!
Back in the 21st century (and with slightly less importance!), perhaps the most unique part of Cullenstown Beach would be the Shell House.
Taking over 30 years to decorate, owner Kevin Ffrench collected the Scallops from the fishermen of neighbouring Kilmore Quay and the Razorfish shells come from Rosslare Strand.
As you saunter along the sand, keep an eye out for the Saltee Islands off in the distance.
Places to visit nearby
One of the beauties of Cullenstown Beach is that it’s a short spin away from many of the best places to visit in Wexford.
Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Cullenstown.
1. More beaches (10-minute drive)
There are a ton of cracking beaches nearby to Cullenstown if you want to spread your wings a little. To the west are the rising cliffs of Blackhall Beach, while a little further on you can dig into some history in a beautiful spot at Bannow Island beach.
2. The Hook Peninsula (20-minute drive)
Only a 20-minute drive away is one of the gems of the Wexford coast! Dotted with deadly viewpoints and stunning medieval ruins, the Hook Peninsula is a spectacular landscape that’s really easy to drive too. Don’t miss the chance to see its world-famous Hook Lighthouse up close, too.
3. Kilmore Quay (20-minute drive)
Head 20-minutes along the coast in the opposite direction east and you’ll find yourself here. There’s plenty of things to do in Kilmore Quay and there’s some great pubs and restaurants in Kilmore Quay, too!
4. Saltee Islands (ferry from Kilmore Quay)
Speaking of Saltee, Kilmore Quay is also the place to be if you want to jump on a ferry and check out the uninhabited and bio-diverse Saltee Islands. Lying around 5 kilometres off the Wexford coast, the islands are perfect for nature lovers and are a breeding ground for fulmar, gannet, shag, kittiwake, guillemot, razorbill, puffin and grey seal.
Regina
Wednesday 10th of August 2022
Can you wild camp on cullenstown beach?