Ballinskelligs Beach

The extensive sandy beach at Ballinskelligs is well known for its fine golden sand and clear water. It is located on the western side of Ballinskelligs Harbour within a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Natural Heritage Area (NHA).

The beach is overlooked by not just one set of ruins, but two. There are the remains of the 16th century McCarthy’s Castle which sit on a narrow rock isthmus jutting out into Ballinskelligs Bay.
As well as this is the 12th century Ballinskelligs Priory or Abbey whose crumbling walls and gravestones look out across the bay.

As a frequent winner of the Blue Flag Award you can be assured this is a great family beach. There is a lifeguard service during the summer months and plenty of facilities close at hand.