County Clare best swim spots 🏊

1. Lahinch Beach

Perhaps Clare’s most iconic coastal destination, Lahinch is a popular beach for surfers and swimmers alike. This long, sandy beach stretches out along Liscannor Bay, and during summer, designated swimming areas are patrolled by lifeguards. The Atlantic can be brisk, but the clean waters and vibrant town atmosphere make it a favourite. After a swim, warm up with a coffee in one of the many beachside cafés.

2. Kilkee Beach and Pollock Holes

Kilkee, a horseshoe-shaped bay sheltered by cliffs, offers one of the safest and most scenic places to swim on the west coast. The beach is Blue Flag rated and ideal for families, but the real gem lies just to the side, the Pollock Holes. These are natural rock pools exposed at low tide, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. They're teeming with marine life and are protected from the stronger currents of the open sea.

3. Spanish Point

Named after the Spanish Armada sailors who perished off the coast in 1588, Spanish Point is a stunning, windswept beach with golden sands. While it's more exposed and often favoured by surfers, on calmer days it offers excellent swimming, especially in the shallower, sandy sections. It’s advisable to swim during lifeguard hours in the summer months due to changing currents.

4. White Strand

A quieter option for swimmers, White Strand is a small, sheltered beach with a peaceful ambiance and panoramic Atlantic views. With its Blue Flag status and lifeguard service in summer, it’s ideal for a safer and more relaxed swim. The beach is clean and less crowded, making it perfect for a morning dip or a scenic sunset swim.

5. Ballyalla Lake

If sea swimming isn't your thing, Ballyalla Lake offers a freshwater alternative just outside Ennis. This inland lake has a designated swimming area and is popular among locals for open-water swimming. The water tends to be warmer than the sea, especially in summer, and the calm surface makes it suitable for beginners or those training for triathlons.

Safety Tips

While swimming in Clare is a magical experience, it's essential to be cautious. The Atlantic can be unpredictable, so always heed warning signs, check tide times, and swim in lifeguarded areas when possible. Wearing a wetsuit is recommended, even in summer, due to cooler water temperatures.