
Inch Beach Kerry
A magnificent 5km stretch of sand and dunes on the Wild Atlantic Way, perfect for walks, surfing, and breathtaking coastal views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for sunshine

Inch Beach Kerry
Best Time
Best chance for sunshine

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 5km stretch of sand and dunes on the Wild Atlantic Way, perfect for walks, surfing, and breathtaking coastal views.
"Spectacular views, perfect for long walks, surfing, and swimming."

🚗 Drive with Caution
Check tide times before driving on the beach; cars can get stuck!
🌊 Embrace the Elements
Weather can change quickly; pack layers for sun and potential rain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 5km Sandy Expanse
Inch Beach
A glorious 5km stretch of sand and dunes, perfect for long walks, surfing, and swimming.

Driving on the Beach
Inch Beach
Experience the unique thrill of driving your vehicle directly onto the sand for a day by the sea.

Spectacular Coastal Views
Inch Beach
Breathtaking vistas of mountains, green cliffs, and the Atlantic Ocean, especially at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tides and Traffic
Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
Check tide times before driving on the beach; cars can get stuck!
🌊 Embrace the Elements
Weather can change quickly; pack layers for sun and potential rain.
🚶♀️ Long Walks Await
The 5km stretch is ideal for leisurely strolls and enjoying the scenery.
🏄♀️ Surfing Hotspot
Inch Beach is known for its surfing conditions, suitable for beginners and experienced surfers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Check tide times before driving on the beach; cars can get stuck!
🌊 Embrace the Elements
Weather can change quickly; pack layers for sun and potential rain.
🚶♀️ Long Walks Await
The 5km stretch is ideal for leisurely strolls and enjoying the scenery.
🏄♀️ Surfing Hotspot
Inch Beach is known for its surfing conditions, suitable for beginners and experienced surfers.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Anglers can find good spots for fishing along the shore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Inch Beach's stunning natural beauty, vast sandy expanse, and opportunities for activities like surfing and long walks. The unique experience of driving on the beach is a major draw, as are the breathtaking mountain and ocean views, especially at sunset. However, some visitors have encountered issues with traffic congestion and the risks associated with driving on the beach during high tides.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Inch Beach is located on the Ring of Kerry route, easily accessible by car. It's about a 30-minute drive from Killarney and a bit further from Dingle. Many visitors drive directly onto the beach, but be mindful of the tide.
Public transport options to Inch Beach are limited. It's best reached by car. Local bus services might run to nearby villages, requiring a walk or taxi to the beach itself.
Yes, there is parking available, and you can also drive onto the beach itself. However, be extremely cautious of the tide, as vehicles have been known to get stuck.
If you're coming from Killarney, take the N70 towards Killorglin and then follow signs for Inch Beach. If coming from Dingle, it's on the N70 heading east. The drive itself offers scenic views.
Yes, Inch Beach is popular with campervans and motorhomes, allowing you to set up for the day directly on the sand. Just ensure you are aware of tide times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Inch Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it. You can enjoy the sand, sea, and scenery for free.
Inch Beach is open 24/7, as it's a natural public space. However, driving on the beach is subject to tide times and daylight hours for safety.
No, booking tickets is not necessary as Inch Beach is a free public amenity. Simply drive or walk to the location.
The main restriction is to be aware of the tide. Avoid driving on the beach during high tide or when the tide is coming in rapidly. Respect the natural environment.
Access to the beach itself can be challenging for wheelchairs due to the sand. However, the car park and nearby facilities should be accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inch Beach is fantastic for long walks, swimming, surfing, and fishing. It's also a popular spot for kite surfing and windsurfing.
Swimming at Inch Beach is generally safe, but always be aware of currents and conditions. Lifeguards are present during the peak summer season.
Dogs are generally welcome on Inch Beach, but it's always a good idea to keep them on a lead, especially during busy periods, and to clean up after them.
There are usually public toilets and a cafe or restaurant nearby, such as Foley's Bar, offering refreshments.
Inch Beach can get very crowded during peak summer weekends, especially on sunny days. Visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons can offer a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Foley's Bar is located right at Inch Beach, offering food and drinks with stunning views.
Absolutely! Inch Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to keep the beach clean.
Foley's Bar typically serves pub fare, including seafood, sandwiches, and hot meals, often with a focus on local ingredients.
Yes, nearby towns like Dingle offer a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.
Often, there are vendors or nearby cafes selling ice cream, especially during the summer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photography. Overcast days can also create moody, atmospheric shots.
The combination of the vast sandy beach, rolling dunes, dramatic cliffs, and the expansive Atlantic Ocean provides diverse photographic opportunities.
The elevated areas near the car park and the dunes offer panoramic views. Driving along the beach also provides unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet sand and water.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check for any restrictions before flying. The open space offers great potential for aerial photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the beach, and remember to pack plenty of sun protection and layers for changing weather. While driving onto the beach is an option, it's often safer and less stressful for families to use the designated car park and walk onto the sand. The nearby cafe provides convenient access to refreshments.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Remember to check the sea conditions and be aware of other water users. The beach's length means there's usually plenty of space, even during busier periods. It's a prime location to experience the vibrant water sports culture of Kerry.
🚗 Road Trippers and Van Lifers
However, extreme caution regarding tide times is paramount. Many van lifers choose to park in the designated areas or ensure they are well above the high tide line. The experience of waking up or spending the day with the sound of the ocean just steps away is a significant part of the appeal for this audience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving on Inch Beach: A Unique Experience
However, this convenience comes with a significant caveat: the tide. Visitors are strongly advised to check tide times meticulously before venturing onto the beach. Several reports highlight instances where cars have become stuck in the sand as the tide unexpectedly turned, leading to traffic chaos and requiring rescue. It's crucial to be aware of when the tide is coming in and to park well above the high-water mark if you plan to stay for an extended period. Local advice often emphasizes caution and preparedness when driving on this expansive stretch of sand.
For those who choose to drive on the beach, it’s an unforgettable part of the Inch Beach experience. It provides a sense of freedom and direct connection with the coastal environment. Just remember that responsible driving and a keen awareness of the natural forces at play are paramount to a safe and enjoyable visit.
Activities and Adventures at Inch Beach
Beyond surfing, swimming is a popular pastime, though visitors should always be mindful of sea conditions and currents. The consistent winds also make it a prime location for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Anglers can also find opportunities for fishing from the shore, adding another dimension to the beach's appeal.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, an adrenaline-pumping surf session, or a relaxing day by the sea, Inch Beach caters to a diverse range of interests. The sheer scale of the beach and its stunning natural setting provide a memorable backdrop for any outdoor adventure.
Capturing the Beauty of Inch Beach
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sky and sea, while reducing glare on wet sand. The ever-changing Irish weather also adds to the photographic appeal; from bright sunshine casting long shadows to moody, dramatic skies during storms, Inch Beach offers a dynamic subject.
For unique perspectives, explore the elevated viewpoints near the car park or consider the potential for drone photography (always checking local regulations). The ability to drive onto the beach also allows for interesting compositions with vehicles against the natural backdrop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit