The Sligo coastline, along the Wild Atlantic Way, is the home of spectacular unspoilt beaches, that are overlooked by majestic mountain ranges. An idyllic combination of hidden coves that invite you relax in peace and tranquillity, and the bustling, welcoming, seaside towns of Strandhill and Enniscrone, serving good, local food and offering a host of activities ranging from surfing, golfing, fishing, horse riding or even a relaxing seaweed bath.
A quick guide to the main beaches in Sligo
Strandhill
Strandhill is an energetic village with bustling cafes and eateries approx. 7 miles from Sligo town. With its wild Atlantic waves it is a very popular spot for surfers throughout the year. It is said that it is one of the best places in Europe to surf!
Please note: Due to the very strong currents swimming is forbidden at Strandhill beach.
Enniscrone Beach
Enniscrone Beach is a fabulous blue flag golden beach which stretches for an amazing 5km. Surrounding the beach is a lively little seaside town. Activities range from surfing, golfing, walking, horse riding, fishing, swimming and a wide range of summer camps that are held throughout the summer months.
Rosses Point Beach
Rosses Point Beach is a blue flag beach located in a seafaring village 8km from Sligo Town. With three sandy beaches, there will always be space to walk, run, or simply sit and relax. The area inspired many of Jack B Yeats artwork which you can see on exhibition from time to time at The Model Arts Centre in Sligo town. You can take a tour boat to Coney Island, spend the day fishing, or simply enjoy the scenic backdrop of Ben Bulben and Knocknarea from the beach itself.
Streedagh Strand
Streedagh Strand is a vast sandy beach with dunes, a lagoon and fantastic views over the sea to the mountains of Donegal, and behind to the famous Ben Bulben, at the foot of which lies the grave of WB Yeats. Streedagh Strand is an exposed beach and reef break that has reasonably consistent surf and can work at any time of the year. Located close to the village of Grange with restaurants and pubs and an outdoor play area.
Mullaghmore Beach
The beach is situated in North Sligo next to the picturesque village of Mullaghmore. This rural sandy beach is backed by an extensive dune system, has spectacular views of Ben Bulben and is overlooked by the majestic Classiebawn Castle on the headland. The village of Mullaghmore comprises of beautiful seaside bars and cafés. In 2013, travel bible The Lonely Planet recognised the waves off the Mullaghmore headland as one of the best surfing spots in the world for big wave surfing.
Culleenamore
Culleenamore is a wonderful sandy beach with safe bathing, located behind Strandhill beach, 9km from Sligo town.
Dunmoran Strand
Dunmoran Strand is a sheltered beach that has quite reliable surf and can work at any time of the year. This beach was awarded the Green Coast Award for 2019.
