Clare Island, Louisburgh
About Clare Island, Louisburgh
Clare Island's Blue Flag beach sits beside the harbour at the gateway to Clew Bay, a sheltered crescent of sand reached by ferry from Roonagh. There is no lifeguard, so swimming should be taken with care, but the calm, clear water and island setting make it idyllic. Backed by the island's hills and the historic Granuaile (Grace O'Malley) castle and abbey, it is a peaceful place to swim, walk and explore.
Get directions to the car park
This opens the verified car-park pin — never the beach itself or a mid-route point.
📍 Get directions to the car park
Pin confirmed at 53.8016, -9.9542. Always verify the car park on arrival — access can change.
Activity suitability
- Swimming — Supervised only
- Surfing — No surf
- Walking — Short walk (under 1km)
- Lifeguard (summer) — No
Facilities
- Toilets — Yes
- Car park — No car park
- Disabled access — Partial
- Lifeguard — No
- Shower
- Café nearby
Facilities confirmed from Mayo County Council and Fáilte Ireland. Source.
Water quality
EPA classification: Excellent (latest annual bathing-water assessment). Always check beaches.ie for the current rating.
Where to stay nearby
Accommodation near this beach coming soon — we are building our Mayo guide now.
Where to eat & drink
The nearest pub or café from TopPubs.ie will appear here as the Mayo guide is built.
Nearby walks
Coastal walking routes from IrishWalks.ie will appear here soon.
Audio story
A 60–90 second audio story of this beach is coming to AudioToursIreland.ie.
Nearby golf
Coastal golf courses within 15km from GolfIreland.ie will appear here.