Brave the Waves: 5 Top Spots to Experience Sea Swimming on the West Coast of Ireland

The rugged coastlines and pristine waters along the West coast of Ireland offer a breath-taking backdrop for an invigorating open sea swimming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer, or just starting out, there are numerous benefits to be had from this invigorating activity and we’ve selected our top 5 Blue Flag beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way for you to take the plunge.

“It’s important to not be afraid of failure and to push yourself to try things and jump in the cold water. There are incredible, beautiful opportunities out there.” JUERGEN TELLER

Positive Impact on Physical & Mental Health

The rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes along the West coast offer a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life.  Both spending time in nature and cold water therapy are scientifically proven to bring a number of mental and physical benefits including;

1. Improved immune response and resistance to disease
2. Reduces muscle inflammation
3. Improves happiness
4. Burns calories
5. Reduces pain
6. Improves sleep quality
7. Better focus
8. Improves energy levels

Best Open Sea Swimming Spots

To get started, visit one of our favourite Blue Flag beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way.

1. Kilkee, Co Clare

The rock pools at the Pollock Holes at Kilkee beach are one of the best free swimming spots in Ireland. These are 3 large natural rock pools for safe sheltered sea swimming. The beach is protected by a reef, giving a crescent-shaped golden strand. The beach has been a destination since Victorian times and the town grew around it with lots of accommodation and caravan parks.

2. Rosses Point, Co Sligo

Rosses Point Beach is a blue flag beach located in a seafaring village 8km from Sligo Town, on the North West Coast of Ireland.  With the scenic backdrop of Benbulben and Knocknarea the area inspired many of Jack B. Yeats artwork.

3. Keem Beach, Achill Island, Co Mayo

Drive or cycle the full length of Achill Island to reach Keem beach at the western end of the island.  Keem beach is a small jewel of a beach 300 m long down a winding lane, with car parks and notice boards on each bend. Facing east the beach is protected by a headland with the highest sea cliffs in Europe on the western side. 

Note – The drive to this beach at sunset is magical as the sun sets to the west. 

4. Mulranny Beach, Co Mayo

Mulranny – in Irish ‘Maoil Raithne’ or ‘Malla Raithne’ (Hill of the Ferns) – is situated on the isthmus between Clew Bay and Blacksod Bay in County Mayo, Ireland, and is only 25 mins drive from Westport and within 15 mins drive of Achill Sound and Ballycroy National Park.  Mulranny beach is a South facing sandy beach. You have some large stones at the shoreline as a sea defence.  Backing onto the beach is a saltwater marsh with plenty of plants and shorebirds.

5. Coral Strand Beach (aka Trá an Dóilín), Co Galway

Coral Strand (or Trá an Dóilín) beach is a stunning small beach made up of coralline algae known as maerl, making this biogenic gravel beach very rare and of great conservation importance. The beach has many rock pools and coves to explore and is the perfect spot for a peaceful sea dip. If it’s a clear day, bring along your snorkelling gear to explore the coastline’s sea life. With crystal clear waters and an abundance of fish and hermit crabs, you’re sure to catch a glimpse of the amazing aquatic life that resides here at Coral Strand. 

TIP: If you continue walking down past the beach and over the mounds of sand and grass, you’ll find a small pier – a quaint little spot with stunning views, for a sand-free picnic! 

Stay Safe

If you’re new to open sea swimming, it’s important to take necessary safety precautions. Always swim with a partner or in a group, be aware of the ocean’s conditions and weather, and have the proper equipment, including a swimsuit, swim cap, goggles, and, in colder water, a wetsuit.

Dive In!

Open sea swimming in the West of Ireland offers a truly unique and invigorating experience. With its stunning landscapes, clear waters, and numerous benefits for physical and mental wellbeing, it’s an activity not to be missed. So, gear up, grab a friend, and dive into the ocean for an unforgettable experience!

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