
Clonea Beach Waterford
A stunning, long sandy beach near Dungarvan, perfect for walks, swims, and a scenic stop on the Waterford Greenway.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Clonea Beach Waterford
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, long sandy beach near Dungarvan, perfect for walks, swims, and a scenic stop on the Waterford Greenway.
"This beautiful long sandy beach is not far from Dungarvan and is a must-visit for beach lovers."

🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for paid parking, usually around €5. Consider cycling if possible! :car:
🚴♀️ Greenway Connection
The Waterford Greenway is right here! Perfect for a cycle trip to Dungarvan. :bike:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Sandy Shores
The main beach area
A long, clean, sandy beach perfect for walks, swimming, and soaking up the coastal atmosphere.

Waterford Greenway Access
Adjacent to the beach
Easily accessible from the popular Waterford Greenway, ideal for cyclists and walkers.

Coastal Views and Activities
Along the coastline
Enjoy stunning autumnal light, sea dips, and even yoga sessions on the sand.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting There and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for paid parking, usually around €5. Consider cycling if possible! :car:
🚴♀️ Greenway Connection
The Waterford Greenway is right here! Perfect for a cycle trip to Dungarvan. :bike:
🧘♀️ Beach Yoga & Sauna
Check for unique events like yoga on the beach with optional sauna dips. :womanhealthworker:
🌊 Sea Swimming Spot
A popular spot for sea swimming, with natural shallow areas for kids. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for paid parking, usually around €5. Consider cycling if possible! :car:
🚴♀️ Greenway Connection
The Waterford Greenway is right here! Perfect for a cycle trip to Dungarvan. :bike:
🧘♀️ Beach Yoga & Sauna
Check for unique events like yoga on the beach with optional sauna dips. :womanhealthworker:
🌊 Sea Swimming Spot
A popular spot for sea swimming, with natural shallow areas for kids. :ocean:
🛍️ Beachfront Amenities
There's a shop for essentials and a cafe, plus toilets nearby. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clonea Beach is widely praised as a beautiful, long, and clean sandy beach, ideal for walks and swimming. Visitors appreciate the nearby amenities, including parking, a shop, and toilets, as well as its convenient location along the Waterford Greenway. Some note the paid parking as a minor drawback.
"Nice beach. Few car parks around €5 charge. Clonea beach very clean, sandy beach. Some seaweed. Lots of people. Tide was out. Bins available. Shop at beachfront. Toilets available."
valerie o regan
"Very good beach with plenty of parking and space. Sea is nice and close at high tide and also a natural shallow area for young kids as the tide is going out. Good local shop on the beach with beach toys, pastries, postcards etc and a cafe next door. Good toilets and there is never a need to walk too far too your car."
Green Giant
"If you are a beach lover, you must visit this beautiful beach"
Angel White
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clonea Beach is located near Dungarvan in County Waterford. If you're driving, follow signs from Dungarvan. It's also easily accessible via the Waterford Greenway, making it a popular stop for cyclists.
While direct public transport to the beach itself might be limited, you can take a bus or train to Dungarvan and then cycle or take a short taxi ride to Clonea Beach.
Absolutely! Clonea Beach is a fantastic stop along the Waterford Greenway. Many visitors cycle from Dungarvan or other points on the greenway.
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely walk along the long sandy stretch, swimming in the sea, or combining their visit with a cycle on the nearby Waterford Greenway.
While there are signs, it can be easy to miss if you're driving. Keep an eye out for signs pointing towards the beach from the main roads near Dungarvan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clonea Beach itself is free to enter. However, there is a paid parking fee, typically around €5, available at designated car parks near the beach.
Clonea Beach is a public beach and is accessible at all times. However, amenities like the shop and toilets may have specific operating hours.
No booking is required for general access to Clonea Beach. If you're interested in specific events like yoga sessions, booking in advance is recommended.
As a public beach, general rules apply. It's important to be mindful of the environment, dispose of litter properly, and be aware of sea conditions when swimming.
You'll find toilets, a shop selling beach essentials and snacks, and a cafe nearby.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
Capture the expansive sandy shores, the dramatic coastline, and the interplay of light, especially during sunrise or sunset. The views towards the Copper Coast are also stunning.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful, soft light for photography. Autumnal light can be particularly striking.
Drone photography may be possible, but always check local regulations and be mindful of other beachgoers. The panoramic views from above are spectacular.
Expect a long, sandy beach backed by dunes and cliffs, with views stretching along the Copper Coast and towards the Comeragh Mountains.
Consider capturing the beach during yoga sessions or sea swimming events for dynamic and engaging shots.
🎫 🏊♀️ Swimming & Water Activities
Clonea Beach is generally good for swimming, with a natural shallow area that's great for children as the tide goes out. Always be aware of sea conditions and swim safely.
You can find opportunities for open water swimming and even organized swim camps.
Water temperatures vary with the seasons. It's typically bracing in cooler months and more pleasant for swimming during the summer.
While not always readily available on-site, the calm waters can be suitable for these activities, especially with organized groups or if you bring your own equipment.
During organized events like swim camps, lifeguards and safety boats are often present. It's advisable to check for lifeguard services, especially during peak season.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Convenient amenities like toilets and a beachfront shop selling snacks and beach toys mean you can easily spend a whole day here without hassle. Plus, its connection to the Waterford Greenway offers opportunities for gentle family bike rides.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Active Travelers
Beyond cycling, the beach is a popular spot for sea swimming and offers a beautiful setting for coastal walks. Consider joining a beach yoga session for a different kind of active experience.
📸 Photographers and Scenery Lovers
Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly magical, with soft light that enhances the natural beauty. Don't miss the chance to photograph the beach during different tidal conditions for varied perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterford Greenway
This trail is incredibly well-maintained and passes through stunning landscapes, including viaducts and tunnels. It's an ideal way to experience the beauty of County Waterford at your own pace. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or looking for a gentle stroll, the Greenway offers something for everyone.
Pro-tip: Renting bikes in Dungarvan is a popular option, allowing you to easily access Clonea Beach and explore further along the Greenway. Remember to pack water and snacks, though there are charming cafes and pubs dotted along the route.
Seasonal Activities and Events
For the adventurous, open water swimming is a popular pursuit, with organized swim camps available. These camps provide expert guidance and safety measures, making them accessible even for beginners. The beach's natural shallow areas can also be appealing for families looking for a safe place to paddle.
Keep an eye out for local event listings, as Clonea Beach occasionally hosts other community gatherings and activities, especially during the warmer months. These events add an extra layer of vibrancy to this already picturesque location.
Coastal Charm and Local Amenities
The beach itself is noted for its cleanliness and soft sand, with some seaweed present, which is natural for a coastal environment. The tide's ebb and flow create interesting patterns and shallow areas, particularly appealing for younger visitors.
Beyond the immediate beach area, the surrounding Copper Coast offers dramatic geological formations and stunning vistas, making Clonea Beach a gateway to further exploration of Waterford's natural beauty.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit