Galway Beaches
Galway is the ideal destination for a family break with the excitement of the city alongside some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and hiking trails. If you are on the way to Clare for the Burren or the Arran Islands for a day out then there are some fabulous beaches en route. These beaches aren’t all in Galway but we would claim them as our own as they are only a short drive from the hotel and if you are heading that direction it is great to know about them.
So, here’s our picks for the top 7 beaches for your visit to Galway
Salthill Prom
Famed as one of the prettiest beaches in Galway, this is the perfect place to go for a sunny day out with the family. Walk the prom to see all the views across Galway Bay or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dive off Blackrock diving boards! Salthill is located within walking distance of Galway city centre and is enormously popular during the summer season.
Dog’s Bay/Gurteen Bay
Situated back to back, these white sandy beaches are an idyllic site for your family beach day out. You’ll find them just two miles outside Roundstone village in Connemara, they offer outstanding views of Errisbeg mountain and the surrounding landscape. They are both a horseshoe shape ensuring safe swimming waters protected from currents. The uniquely white colour of the sand is due to the seashells that make up its composition. We strongly recommend visiting here even just for the photos!
Coral Beach
Located just outside the village of Carraroe, Trá an Dóilín, the so-called Coral Beach is known for its colourful wildlife, namely the coralline algae known as maerl. The abundance of maerl on the beach is rare and of great ecological importance. Usually quieter than the beaches closer to Galway city, the innumerable rock pools around the beach make it the perfect destination for your family.
Silver Strand Beach
Trá na gCeann or Silver Strand Beach, is located just outside Barna, just two miles from Salthill, and is a very popular beach for young families. As it faces directly into Galway Bay, it offers stunning views. It is shielded on both sides by cliff and rock making it safe for swimming at low tide. With plenty of parking and its adjacency to the city, it makes the ideal destination for a beach day out!
Flaggy Shore Beach
Flaggy Shore Beach is located on the Wild Atlantic Way, 13mins from the picturesque town of Kinvara. Set in the scenic surrounds of the Burren, with fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, you can see across to the edge of Galway. There’s a fab little ice cream parlour just over halfway – definitely worth a stop.
Bishops Quarters
Located on the Kinvarra – Ballyvaughan road. Great sandy beach with sand dunes, and a fantastic view of the surrounding Burren lands. You can explore the ruins of a monastic church and cemetery. There is also a great place to stop on the small cross over stone bridge where you can fish for crabs.
Fanore Beach
This beach is a real unspoilt haven. Long sandy beach, with a huge array of sand dunes. Very popular spot with surfers. With it being surrounded by much of the Burren, on a warm day it is the perfect place for sunbathing or for a dip.
Your Perfect Base in Galway
Situated just outside of the city, Maldron Hotel Oranmore is easy to get to, and the perfect base for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and all the beautiful beaches the west coast has to offer!
Wake up in cosy beds before visiting the leisure centre or going for a dip in the pool. And, after the days hiking activities and swim in the cool Atlantic ocean, relax with dinner and drinks in the hotel’s bar and restaurant. With complimentary car parking on-site, you’ll have everything you need for the perfect outdoor adventure!
Staying in Galway?
