9 Glorious Beaches In West Cork To Saunter Along This Summer

If you’re in search of the best beaches in West Cork, you’ve landed in the right place.

While there’s an almost endless number of things to do in West Cork, it’s the regions beaches that always have me coming back for more.

From well know spots, like Barleycove, to lesser-known gems that you’ll discover below, West Cork is home to some of the finest beaches in Cork.

The best beaches in West Cork

The first section of this guide tackles our favourite beaches in West Cork. Now – remember, caution is required before you ever consider entering the water in Ireland.

Water safety warning: Understanding water safety is absolutely crucial when visiting beaches in Ireland. Please take a minute to read these water safety tips. Cheers!

1. Barleycove Beach

Barleycove Beach was created back in 1755 when a Tsunami was recorded near Lisbon, causing 15ft high waves to hit the area where one of the best beaches in West Cork now sits.

This sandy beach is nestled between the headlands on the Mizen Peninsula. It’s an ideal beach for families as it’s lifeguarded on weekends during bathing season.

The beach is designated as a Special Area of Conversation under the European Habitats Directive, with a floating bridge in place to help reduce impact on the natural surroundings and an extensive dune system.

2. Garrettstown Beach

 

Garretstown Beach is a wide, south-facing sandy beach just a short drive from Kinsale, with fantastic views across to the Old Head of Kinsale. It’s one of Cork’s best-known surfing beaches and is popular with everyone from first-timers to experienced surfers.

If surfing isn’t your thing, it’s a lovely spot for a walk along the sand or the nearby cliff path. Just take care if you’re exploring the cliffs, as there’s a blowhole here that’s best admired from a safe distance.

The beach is Blue Flag certified, lifeguarded during the summer bathing season and has a large car park, public toilets and a surf school where you can book lessons or hire a paddleboard or kayak.

3. Inchydoney Beach

Once voted one of the best beaches in Ireland by Tripadvisor, this expansive golden strand is a 10 min drive from the photogenic fishing village of Clonakilty.

The shimmering blue water and sea vistas make Inchydoney Beach feel like you are on a tropical holiday… unless you visit when the rain is blowing sideways, that is!

As is the case with many beaches in West Cork, there’s a surf school here, also, if you fancy hitting the waves.

4. Allihies Beach

Tucked away just outside the colourful village of Allihies on the Beara Peninsula, this is one of the most overlooked beaches in West Cork.

Ballydonegan Beach’s distinctive white shoreline was created from quartz waste left behind by Allihies’ historic copper mines, giving it a look that’s unlike almost anywhere else in Ireland.

It’s a lovely spot for a stroll or a paddle, and there are several scenic walking trails nearby if you fancy stretching the legs afterwards.

One word of caution: there is no lifeguard service here and the seabed shelves steeply, meaning the water gets deep very quickly. There can also be strong currents around an outgoing tide, so only enter the water if you’re a capable swimmer!

5. Owenahincha Beach

Owenahincha Beach lies around 10 minutes from Clonakilty and is one of the longest beaches in West Cork. Backed by rolling sand dunes and surrounded by beautiful countryside, it’s an excellent place to stretch the legs rather than simply throw down a towel.

The Warren Beach Cliff Walk begins at the northeastern end of the beach, while nearby Castlefreke Woods offers miles of woodland trails where you’re likely to spot horses grazing in the surrounding fields.

Together, they make this one of my favourite corners of West Cork for an afternoon outdoors. One word of caution: although Owenahincha is Blue Flag certified and lifeguarded during the bathing season, it’s also known for powerful surf, multiple rip currents and rough conditions.

Unless you’re a confident swimmer and conditions are suitable, I’d stick to enjoying the beach from the shore.

6. Sherkin Island Beach

Sherkin Island boasts three brilliantly sandy beaches to enjoy, the most popular being Silver Strand, which is often the go-to place for sunbathing (a rarity!), swimming or surfing.

As this is an island and it’s slightly off-the-beaten-path, the chances of you having this place all to yourself during the quieter months of the year are pretty high.

One of the biggest draws to visiting Skerkin Island is that, as you walk along the shore, you have the possibility of seeing seals, otters, dolphins or even porpoises.

7. Lackenakea Bay Beach

Just beyond Barleycove, Lackenakea Beach is one of those places that’s easy to miss but well worth seeking out. While its famous neighbour attracts the crowds, Lackenakea tends to stay much quieter, even on fine summer days.

The beach is a mix of soft sand and pebbles, with clear water and rugged rocks framing either end of the bay. At low tide, there’s plenty of sand to wander across, while the surrounding coastline makes it a lovely spot to stop for the views alone.

If you’re visiting Mizen Head or Crookhaven, it’s an easy detour that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or a paddle. Just be aware that 1, there is no lifeguard service and 2, there can be strong currents.

8. Red Strand Beach

You’ll find Red Strand Beach tucked into a small bay between Clonakilty and Rosscarbery, near Dunowen Head.

Although it’s not as well known as some of the bigger beaches in West Cork, it’s become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its crystal-clear water and the excellent West Cork Sauna on the shoreline.

One word of warning: don’t underestimate how busy it gets. I tried calling down on a sunny Saturday morning last summer and the small car park was already completely full. There isn’t anywhere nearby to park safely, so either arrive early or visit outside of peak times.

If you do manage to grab a space, you’ll be treated to clean sand, remarkably clear water and one of the nicest settings for a dip in West Cork.

9. Tragumna Beach

Just 10 minutes from Skibbereen, Tragumna is one of those beaches that’s easy to drive past but well worth seeking out. It’s much smaller than the likes of Barleycove or Inchydoney, but that’s part of its appeal.

The beach is backed by a peaceful marsh and looks out towards tiny Drishane Island, giving it a quieter, more sheltered feel than many of West Cork’s Atlantic beaches. If you’re after somewhere for a relaxed stroll, a paddle or a swim without the bigger crowds, it’s hard to beat.

Tragumna is Blue Flag certified, lifeguarded during the summer bathing season and has a car park right beside the beach.

Explore beyond the West Cork beaches

Now you’ve had a good gander at the different beaches in West Cork, it’s time to take a look at what to do.

You’ll find all of the places on my map above in my guide on what to do in West Cork. If you fancy an itinerary, see my West Cork road trip.