Grange Strand is another of Wexford’s many fine stretches of beach, andis good both for swimming and walking. However the tide really does go way out here, so if you want a quick dip, then watch the tide times.
There are plenty of rock pools here for the kids to explore, but it does get windy so bring a windbreak if you are planning to stay for a while.
Access to the beach is via a rough track which isn’t wheelchair accessible. You will also be lifting your buggy.
There is no proper car park but there are a few places you can pull in beside the road
In contrast to its noisier neighbours in Clonea and Ardmore, Ballyquin is a beach to go to if you want to swim in a quieter setting.
This is a wide, secluded beach with a good expanse of soft sand. It is quite open so when it’s windy you will likely need a windbreak. There are some pools for the kids to explore and some shelter from the rocks.
The water here is clear and very nice to swim in. It’s sandy underfoot and you get into your depth gradually. All in all a good spot for those who want to swim without too much background noise.
There is a small car park, with room for a handful of cars, and a basic toilet in the car park. Access to the beach is via a rough path cum slipway on which you could manage a buggy and possibly a wheelchair, with great care.
From Dungarvan take the R25 toward Youghal. You then take a left turn onto the R675 signposted Ardmore. Before Ardmore watch for a left turn signposted for Ballyquinn Beach.
Ballydowane Bay is located on Waterford’s ‘Copper Coast’ ( the name comes from the copper mines said to be located at its heart), which is renowned for its geological make up and cliff formations. The beach here is surrounded by impressive reddish brown cliffs and is well sheltered.
The beach itself is stony and not a place for kids who want soft sand to play in. There are, however, a number of rock pools for young and old to explore.
Before swimming here take notice of the sign in the car park which warns you of ripple currents. SO BE CAREFUL.
There is a gradual wade in to the water and it is sandy underfoot. When we swam here the water wasn’t clear but that doesn’t tell you anything about its cleanliness. Overall, not a great swimming spot but interesting for its geology and its impressive cliffs.
From Dungarvan take the R 675 toward Tramore. Follow this road and then take the right turn off it for Stradbally. As you come into Stradbally you then take the right turn signposted for Ballyvooney. After a few kilometres on this road you will come to a right turn signposted for Ballydowane Bay.
Let’s get the name out of the way first. We have known this as the Silver Strand, but the signpost at the turn off calls it ‘Tra na Gceann’ and the Ordnance Survey map seems to call it the ‘White Strand’ – so take your pick.
Whatever it’s called, Barna is a good sized family beach. It’s a good place for children to run around and play. When the tide is out it’s not so good for swimmers, as the water goes way way out.
Facilities here are good, with a nice picnic area, toilets and good parking. The beach is also wheelchair accessible.
Blackrock is a Galway swimming institution – for serious swimmers and tourists, young and old, year round swimmers and sun seekers.
Located at the end of Salthill’s ‘prom’ this is a great place for people to meet and socialise.
There is a covered changing area, diving boards and steps down into the water.
When the tide is in Blackrock looks really well and the diving boards can be used. If you are diving do heed the warning signs and the lifeguards.
Facilities here are quite good. Along with the changing areas there are modern, pay toilets nearby, which include a disabled toilet. For the hardy there is also an outdoor cold shower.
The whole area is concreted and it can be accessed by buggies and wheelchairs.
Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.
This part of Salthill can be very busy during the summer and car parking is often difficult. Better to walk here if you can and after your swim you can pick up the Connemara Way which runs just behind the bathing area.
Directions
From Galway city take the coast road to Salthill and Blackrock is at the end of the promenade. You will know it by its diving boards.
