Inch Beach in Kerry is a 5km (3mi) long sand spit that stretches out into beautiful Dingle Bay.
Arguably one of the highlights on the Dingle Peninsula, Inch Strand is a hot-spot amongst both surfers and those looking to stretch their legs after a long drive.
Located between both Dingle and Castlemain Harbour, the beach offers glorious views of the Iveragh Peninsula (where the Ring of Kerry is located).
What to know before visiting Inch Beach in Kerry
A visit to Inch Beach is one of the most popular of the many things to do in Kerry, but there’s a few ‘need-to-knows’ that’ll make your trip all the more enjoyable.
1. Parking/facilities
There’s a decent bit of parking at Inch Beach (here on Google Maps). Just keep in mind that, as it’s one of the more popular beaches near Killarney, it fills up fast on fine days. There are public toilets inside the parking area (here).
2. Swimming
It’s safe to swim on Inch Beach, once you’re clear on these water safety tips and are a competent swimmer. Inch is a Blue Flag Beach and there are life guards on duty during peak season (if in doubt, ask locally).
3. The viewpoint
If you’re not fussed about strolling on the sand, you can get an eyeful of one of the best beaches in Kerry from a little viewpoint just up the road. There’s limited parking here, but you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of the beach and beyond.
Things to do at Inch Beach in Dingle
Photos via Shutterstock
Inch Beach is one of the most popular places to go surfing in Ireland, thanks to the reputation the waves here have racked up over the years.
Below, you’ll find out everything you need to know if you fancy spending a few hours or a few days surfing on Inch Beach.
1. Inch Beach surfing
There are several different schools teaching surfing on Inch Beach in Kerry. The popular Kingdom Waves has racked up great reviews online.
It offers a variety of different options for people that fancy giving surfing on Inch Beach a shot, with classes on offer to suit all levels.
The Surf-Forecast site has up-to-date info on the Inch surf forecast, with details on everything from wind and waves to the best time to visit and more.
2. Scenic strolls
On a clear day, a walk along the sand at Inch Strand really is hard to beat.
On the days when the surfers are battling the waves, you can watch on from afar as the Wild Atlantic puts them through their paces.
You’ll have views of Dingle Bay and the mountains of Kerry to accompany you as you ramble.
3. Pre/post-stroll coffee/feed
Sammy’s Cafe is located right on Inch Strand. These lads knock up one of the best burgers in the land, and I don’t say that lightly!
You can grab a coffee to take away and head out onto the sand.
Sammy’s is a great little spot on good and bad days. When it’s lashing down, it’s a handy spot to get some respite from the rain.
Things to do nearby
One of the beauties of Inch is that it’s a short spin away from many of the best places to visit in Kerry.
Here’s some things to see and do while you’re there:
- Minard Castle (15-minute drive)
- Dingle Town (25-minute drive) things to do in Dingle great restaurants in Dingle and there’s plenty of great pubs in Dingle
- Eask Tower (35-minute drive)
- The Slea Head Drive (35-minute drive)
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.