Binnel Bay
A secluded, rocky bay accessed via a scenic wooded path, offering rock pools, fossils, and a tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, more tranquility
Binnel Bay
Best Time
Fewer people, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded, rocky bay accessed via a scenic wooded path, offering rock pools, fossils, and a tranquil escape.
"Amazing place, hidden gem. Lovely walk and no one there!"
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Dogs absolutely loved this beach! Great for off-leash adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Scrambling down rocks to reach the beach requires good shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secret Beach Discovery
Uncover a secluded cove with rock pools and potential fossil finds. A true escape from the crowds.
Wooded Coastal Path
Enjoy a scenic walk through a fern-filled woodland leading to the bay. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Tranquil Rock Formations
Explore the natural beauty of the rocky coastline, ideal for quiet contemplation and nature observation.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Binnel Bay
What to Expect at Binnel Bay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Dogs absolutely loved this beach! Great for off-leash adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Scrambling down rocks to reach the beach requires good shoes.
🤫 Discover the Hidden Path
Follow the footpath behind Molly Cottril's pottery for the best access.
💎 Fossil Hunting Fun
Keep an eye out for fossils amongst the rocks. A unique souvenir!
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Dogs absolutely loved this beach! Great for off-leash adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Scrambling down rocks to reach the beach requires good shoes.
🤫 Discover the Hidden Path
Follow the footpath behind Molly Cottril's pottery for the best access.
💎 Fossil Hunting Fun
Keep an eye out for fossils amongst the rocks. A unique souvenir!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Binnel Bay is lauded as a 'hidden gem' and 'secret beach' offering a tranquil escape with its rocky coastline, rock pools, and scenic wooded access path. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty and suitability for dog walkers, though the rocky descent requires sturdy footwear.
"We parked at the end of Under Cliff drive and went thru a new looking wooden gate. Great wooded path with ferns which led down to an amazing ‘secret’ beach! The dogs loved it! Rocks, rock pools, some fossils too. Lovely walk and no one there!"
andrew wasley
"Amazing place.hidden gem. To get here you need to walk behind the Molly Cottril's pottery on Old Park Road, go round the studio buildings and through the car park, then it's about a ten minute walk following the footpath through a lightly wooded area. Then you have to scramble down some rocks to get onto the beach. If you walk along for a couple of minutes on the beach, you'll see a camp area with a hammock, swing and fire pit too. Loved it."
Natalie Fahy
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Fernan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access Binnel Bay by parking at the end of Under Cliff Drive or walking behind Molly Cottril's pottery on Old Park Road. Follow the footpath through a lightly wooded area.
Parking is available at the end of Under Cliff Drive and also near Molly Cottril's pottery, which serves as a starting point for the walk.
The path is wooded and can be muddy. You'll need to scramble down some rocks to get onto the beach itself.
While the initial path is walkable, the final descent to the beach involves scrambling over rocks, making cycling impractical for reaching the bay directly.
Public transport options are limited for direct access. Driving or a significant walk from a bus stop would be necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Binnel Bay is a natural coastal area and does not require any tickets for entry. It's free to explore.
As a natural beach, Binnel Bay is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for Binnel Bay. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy.
No booking is required or possible for Binnel Bay, as it's a natural, undeveloped beach. You can visit spontaneously.
The main consideration is the terrain. It's not suitable for those with mobility issues due to the rocky descent. Otherwise, it's open to all.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy exploring rock pools, searching for fossils, walking along the coast, and simply relaxing in a secluded environment. Dogs are welcome!
While possible, Binnel Bay is a rocky beach, and swimming conditions can vary. It's more suited for exploration than dedicated swimming.
No, Binnel Bay is a natural, undeveloped beach. You'll need to bring all your own supplies and be prepared for no facilities.
Bring sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and perhaps a bag for any treasures you find (like fossils!). A towel is also a good idea.
Children can enjoy exploring the rock pools, but adult supervision is crucial due to the rocky terrain and the sea.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rugged coastline, detailed rock pools at low tide, and the scenic wooded path leading to the bay. The secluded nature offers unique shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful dramatic scenes. Low tide is ideal for showcasing the rock pools.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the coastal landscape, and a macro lens can highlight the details in rock pools and fossils.
There are no specific restrictions on photography at Binnel Bay, allowing you to capture its natural beauty freely.
Its seclusion, natural rock formations, and the contrast between the wooded path and the open sea make it a visually interesting location.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities at Binnel Bay. Bringing a small bucket and spade for rock pooling can enhance the experience. The natural, undeveloped nature of the beach means it's a great place for imaginative play and enjoying the outdoors, but safety on the rocky terrain should be the top priority.
🐾 Dog Owners
Remember to bring water for your dog, especially on warmer days. While the beach is rocky, it generally offers plenty of space for dogs to run. The secluded nature of Binnel Bay means you're less likely to encounter large crowds, which can be more relaxing for both you and your canine companion.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
The seclusion of Binnel Bay is a major draw for nature lovers seeking peace and quiet. It’s an excellent spot for photography, bird watching, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. The lack of development means you can immerse yourself in the natural environment without distractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Binnel Bay's Natural Wonders
Accessing the bay involves a pleasant walk through a wooded path filled with ferns, which adds to the sense of seclusion and adventure. This natural environment makes it a fantastic spot for dog walkers who appreciate the open space and natural surroundings. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the uneven terrain and the scramble down to the beach.
While Binnel Bay offers a raw, natural experience, it's important to note the lack of facilities. Visitors should come prepared with everything they need, including water and snacks. The tranquility and untouched beauty are its main draws, making it a perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat away from more developed tourist spots.
Accessing the Secluded Binnel Bay
Both routes emphasize a wooded walk before reaching the bay. The final approach to the beach itself requires a scramble down some rocks, which is why sturdy footwear is highly recommended. This natural descent means Binnel Bay is not easily accessible for those with mobility issues, but for those who can manage it, the reward is a secluded and beautiful stretch of coastline.
Once on the beach, some visitors have noted finding evidence of camping, including a fire pit and hammock, suggesting it's a spot for adventurous overnight stays, though this is not an official campsite. The overall experience is one of discovery and enjoying a less-trodden path to a beautiful natural location.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit