Let’s Go to the Beach

Sligo is perfectly located on the Wild Atlantic Way with over 20 beaches to enjoy so you might want to grab the buckets and spades and head to one of them. If you prefer to swim in a pool there is a list of the main Sligo Swimming Pools here. You can also learn to swim with Splash Swim School.

Not all of Sligo’s beaches are suitable for bathing due to riptides and we’ve heard of weever fish in Dunmoran which have a nasty sting so something else to be aware of. Check out Irish Water Safety for more information.

Anyway here are some of our favourite Sligo beaches – in no particular order.

 Mullaghmore.

A lovely, sandy beach with a stunning looped walk or drive around by Classiebawn Castle. No lifeguards at present but the swimming area is gently sloping and shallow and the position of the beach protects it from large waves so generally a favourite with families. Hotels, shops and restaurant available in the nearby village during the Summer season.

Streedagh Strand.

A 3km sandy beach, perfect for surfing all year round. Check out the links with the Spanish Armada and look for fossils on the rocks. Lifeguards in the summer so great for family swims, popular with walkers year round.

Rosses Point.

Not one, not two, but three sandy beaches! Perfect for the little ones and safe for swimming.

Strandhill.

A thriving seaside village and although it’s not safe for swimming you can try the fantastic surf or walk along the beach.

Culleenamore.

Just down the road from Strandhill (you can even walk there). Perfect for seal spotting and for the bucket and spade brigade.

Coney Island.

A short walk (or drive) from the Strandhill area. This is Ireland as it used to be, quiet lanes, stone walls and lots of rabbits! Check the tide times so you don’t get stranded.

Dunmoran.

A gorgeous, sheltered beach, great for swimming and surfing. Well worth the walk to Aughris from here.

Enniscrone.

Miles and miles of sand. Walk to your hearts content….and you never know what you’ll see there.

Sligo Walks have some fantastic suggestions for coastal walks. Perfect for exploring somewhere new.

Sligo Hub also has a post about Lissadell Beach

What are your favourites?