Overview
Banna Strand (Irish: Trá na Beannaí) is a long sandy beach on Ballyheigue Bay in north County Kerry, roughly 13 km northwest of Tralee. It is a wide Atlantic beach backed by dunes, and it can be busy on fine summer weekends. Walk along the sand away from the access point and you can still find space.
The dune system is a Special Area of Conservation, protecting the shifting sand, its coastal plants, and the Carrahane lagoon at the southern end, where migrating wildfowl rest. On a clear day the views run across the bay towards the Dingle Peninsula and Mount Brandon.
The Casement landing & history
The beach carries real historical weight as the landing site of Roger Casement. On the morning of Good Friday, 21 April 1916, Casement came ashore from a German U-boat with Robert Monteith and a third man, Daniel Julian Bailey, hoping to land arms for the Easter Rising. They were picked up almost at once by local police and the Royal Irish Constabulary.
A stone monument put up in 1966 for the 50th anniversary records the event near the shore. It names Casement and Monteith but not the third man, Bailey, who after his capture turned King’s evidence. Florrie Monteith, Robert’s daughter, later wrote a biography, The Mystery Man of Banna Strand. It is a quiet, reflective spot, worth the short walk from the beach entrance.
What to See & Do
- Surfing & watersports: the Atlantic swell and sandy seabed make Banna a recognised surf spot. Beginners should look for a local surf school, while experienced riders take the long, rolling waves.
- Swimming & family days: check current bathing-water notices and swim between the red and yellow flags while lifeguards are on duty. The wide sand is good for paddling and sandcastles.
- Dune walks & wildlife: follow the signed beach entrance and stay on established paths through the dunes. At low tide the sand opens into a vast plain for long rambles. The southern end near Carrahane lagoon is the place to look for migratory birds and shorebirds.
- Fishing: the shore is popular with anglers. Keep to established paths, stay clear of the protected dunes and avoid disturbing nesting areas.
Practical Information
Getting There & Parking
Banna Strand is signposted off the R551 Ballyheigue road, roughly 13 km from Tralee. Use the signed beach entrance and car park. Without a car it is trickier, so check current public transport options with Transport for Ireland before you plan to come by bus.
Facilities & Accessibility
- Facilities: check current details of toilets and other facilities with the Discover Ireland page before you go.
- Wheelchair access: Kerry County Council lists Banna among its beach wheelchair locations. Contact the council before travelling to check arrangements for your visit. The dunes themselves are natural, uneven ground and not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Safety & Regulations
Atlantic tides shift fast here and currents can be stronger than they look. Swim between the flags while lifeguards are on duty, and check tide times before wandering far down the beach at low water. Follow local signs for seasonal dog restrictions, which are set out in the council’s beach bye-laws. There is no charge to visit the beach or the monument.