Coumeenoole Beach
A dramatic, secluded beach on the Dingle Peninsula, famed for its wild beauty and cinematic past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cute lambs
Coumeenoole Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cute lambs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic, secluded beach on the Dingle Peninsula, famed for its wild beauty and cinematic past.
"One of the most picturesque beaches I have ever seen."
🚗 Drive Carefully Down
The road to the beach is steep and narrow. Drive slowly and be mindful of other vehicles.
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Strong currents make swimming dangerous. Admire the beauty from the shore only.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
The entire beach area
Towering cliffs meet turquoise waters, creating a cinematic landscape featured in 'Ryan's Daughter'.
Slea Head Drive Views
Along the Slea Head Drive
This beach is a key stop on one of Ireland's most scenic routes, offering unforgettable vistas.
Blasket Islands Outlook
Overlooking the Blasket Islands
Enjoy panoramic views of the remote Blasket Islands from the beach or nearby Dunmore Head.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Atlantic Way
Safety First: Admire, Don't Swim
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully Down
The road to the beach is steep and narrow. Drive slowly and be mindful of other vehicles.
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Strong currents make swimming dangerous. Admire the beauty from the shore only.
🅿️ Free Parking Available
Parking is free at the top of the cliff, but can fill up quickly.
📸 Cinematic Photo Ops
Perfect spot for photography, especially with the dramatic cliffs and ocean.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully Down
The road to the beach is steep and narrow. Drive slowly and be mindful of other vehicles.
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Strong currents make swimming dangerous. Admire the beauty from the shore only.
🅿️ Free Parking Available
Parking is free at the top of the cliff, but can fill up quickly.
📸 Cinematic Photo Ops
Perfect spot for photography, especially with the dramatic cliffs and ocean.
🐑 Spring Lamb Encounters
Visit in spring for a chance to see adorable lambs near the beach. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Coumeenoole Beach is a breathtakingly beautiful and dramatic spot on the Dingle Peninsula, lauded for its stunning coastal scenery and cinematic appeal. Visitors praise its free access and parking, and the picturesque views of the Blasket Islands. However, the strong currents make it unsafe for swimming, and facilities are minimal.
"Very impressive beach here. Free entry and free car park. The was a seal walking around which was very cute to watch. Dont be afraid to drive your car all the way down as well."
Jean-Francois LeBlanc
"Coumeenoole Beach, nestled along the iconic Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula, is an absolute gem and a must-visit for anyone exploring County Kerry. The moment you arrive, you're greeted by truly stunning views that are nothing short of breathtaking. Dramatic cliffs plunge into the wild Atlantic, framing a crescent of pristine golden sand and turquoise waters. It's easy to see why this spot was chosen as a filming location for "Ryan's Daughter" – it's incredibly photogenic.
Parking is available at the top of the cliff, offering space for around 25 cars. While it can get busy, especially during peak season, the views from the car park itself are worth the stop if you can't make it down to the beach. There's a steep, narrow paved path leading down to the beach from the car park.
A crucial piece of information for visitors: swimming at Coumeenoole Beach is generally considered dangerous due to strong currents. You'll find warning signs in place, so it's best to admire the beauty from the shore. This isn't a beach for a casual dip, but rather for soaking in the incredible scenery and the raw power of the ocean.
There are no dedicated toilets or facilities directly on the beach, so plan accordingly. However, there are often cafes nearby on the clifftop, offering a chance to grab a bite with a view."
Héctor Martín
"One of the most picturesque beaches I have ever seen. Too cold to swim, but it’s nice to look at.
There is plenty of free parking at the top and it’s a safe enough walk down to the bottom."
Warwick (The Saucy Mare)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coumeenoole Beach is located on the Slea Head Drive, a popular scenic route on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. You'll need a car to access it. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering stunning coastal views.
The Slea Head Drive is a public road, but it is narrow and winding in places. It's best navigated with caution, especially during peak tourist season.
Public transport options directly to Coumeenoole Beach are very limited. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or join a guided tour that includes the Slea Head Drive.
Many visitors recommend driving the Slea Head Drive to see highlights like Coumeenoole Beach. Consider stopping at various viewpoints and small villages along the way.
Yes, many Dingle-based tours include stops at Coumeenoole Beach as part of the Slea Head Drive. This can be a good option if you prefer not to drive yourself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Coumeenoole Beach has free entry. You can enjoy its natural beauty without any admission cost.
Yes, there is free parking available at the top of the cliff overlooking the beach. It can accommodate around 25 cars and may fill up during busy periods.
Coumeenoole Beach is a natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not required for Coumeenoole Beach as it is a public natural site.
There are no dedicated toilets or facilities directly on Coumeenoole Beach. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities in nearby towns if needed.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely not. Coumeenoole Beach is known for its strong currents and is considered dangerous for swimming. Always heed the warning signs.
You can enjoy the stunning scenery, take photos, go for a walk along the shore, and admire the views of the Blasket Islands. It's a place for relaxation and appreciating nature.
While beautiful, the strong currents make it unsuitable for swimming with children. Families can enjoy the views and the surrounding Slea Head Drive.
Yes, there is a steep, narrow paved path leading down to the beach from the car park. It requires careful footing.
Yes, Coumeenoole Beach is on the Slea Head Drive, which features many other attractions like Dunquin Pier, ancient forts, and stunning viewpoints. Dunmore Head offers a mini-hike with great views.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, golden sand, and the Blasket Islands provide incredible photo opportunities. The entire Slea Head Drive is very photogenic.
Late afternoon often offers beautiful golden light that enhances the colors of the cliffs and sea. However, any time of day can yield stunning shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the sea and sky.
While not guaranteed, you might spot seals or seabirds. The real wildlife stars are often the lambs seen in spring. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The drive itself can be an adventure, but be mindful of narrow roads. Nearby attractions like the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium or boat tours from Dingle town might offer more interactive experiences for younger children.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+2Visit during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the most dramatic lighting. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your photos, especially with long exposures of the waves. Drone photography can capture the scale of the landscape, but always check local regulations.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Take your time on the drive, pull over at designated viewpoints, and savor the journey. The road can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously and enjoy the immersive experience of Ireland's rugged western coastline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Slea Head Drive Experience
As you navigate the winding roads, you'll encounter dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the offshore Blasket Islands. The drive is dotted with opportunities to stop, explore, and soak in the raw beauty of the Irish coastline. Be prepared for narrow sections and single-lane bridges, requiring careful driving and yielding to oncoming traffic.
Many visitors choose to drive the route clockwise, starting and ending in Dingle town. Along the way, you can visit sites like Dunquin Pier, the Beehive Huts (Clochán), and various viewpoints that offer unparalleled photographic opportunities. The drive is an essential part of any Dingle Peninsula itinerary.
Understanding the Currents and Safety
Instead of swimming, visitors are encouraged to appreciate the beach's raw beauty from the safety of the shore. The dramatic waves crashing against the sand and cliffs are a spectacle in themselves. The beach is best enjoyed for its scenic views, photography, and the invigorating atmosphere of the wild coast.
+1When visiting, always be mindful of the tide and the power of the ocean. Stay a safe distance from the water's edge, especially if you are with children. The focus at Coumeenoole Beach should be on admiring its natural splendor and respecting the forces of nature.
A Cinematic Gem: 'Ryan's Daughter'
The beach's wild, untamed beauty perfectly embodied the spirit of the story, set during the Irish Rebellion. Its dramatic cliffs and powerful ocean presence made it an ideal setting for the film's emotional and visually stunning narrative. The cinematic legacy continues to draw visitors who are eager to experience the very locations that brought the film to life.
Even if you haven't seen the film, the visual appeal of Coumeenoole Beach is undeniable. Its dramatic setting has made it a favorite for photographers and filmmakers alike, cementing its status as a truly iconic Irish coastal spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit