Courtown Beach, stretched along County Wexford's east coast, is a popular spot known for its two distinct sides. To the north, you'll find a lively beach perfect for swimming, while the southern end offers a quieter, more relaxed experience. It's been a favourite summer spot since the 19th century, when the train line from Dublin made it easy for city folk to escape to the sea. The northern part, with its fine sand and summer lifeguards, earned a Blue Flag award in 2018 for its clean water and safety – this is where most families head. The southern end is narrower and not ideal for swimming, but it has a lovely village feel with cafes like the Shore Coffee Bar nearby.
Courtown's story is tied to its harbour, built by Lord Courtown during the Famine years to help the local economy. You can still see that maritime influence in the village layout around the harbour and canals, now home to fun spots like the Forest Park waterslide and amusement arcades. The beach itself shows the marks of time and tide; coastal erosion has affected the northern section, leading to projects to protect the shoreline with extra sand and dune planting. These efforts help preserve the beach's natural environment, with some areas set aside for nesting birds and rare shells found nearby at Kilpatrick Beach.
A visit offers plenty to do both in and out of the water. The north beach is great for swimming, windsurfing, or just relaxing on the sand. Right next door, Courtown Woods provides shady walking trails. Things quieten down in autumn and winter, making it perfect for peaceful walks and maybe spotting some seals – although the volunteer-run Seal Rescue Ireland Centre nearby offers a guaranteed chance to see rescued pups. For more exploring, the coastal paths around Tara Hill offer great views. While summer is buzzing with activity, the year-round facilities like toilets and the woodland paths make Courtown a good destination any time.
Getting There
The closest railway station is Gorey Railway Station, located 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) north of Courtown on the R742 regional road. From Gorey, a daily bus service (except Sundays) connects to Courtown, with routes varying by weekday:
- Bus Éireann 379 operates Mondays and Saturdays to Wexford via Curracloe.
- Route 879 runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
- A Rural Roadrunner bus serves the area on Wednesdays.
Driving Directions
Courney Beach is easily accessible by car:
- From Gorey: 10 minutes south on the R742.
- From Arklow (County Wicklow): 20 minutes via the R744 and R742.
- From Enniscorthy: 30 minutes west on the R751 and N25.
- From Wexford Town: 40 minutes northeast on the N11 and R742.
- From Dublin: 90 minutes south via the M50, M11, and R742.
Public Transportation
Buses 379 and 389 stop near the beach, with services departing from Wexford and Gorey:
- Bus 389 (Gorey-Millquarter-Glen Richards Wood) stops at Courney (2-minute walk to the beach) and Courney Gorey Road (3-minute walk).
- The first bus departs at 5:20 AM, and the last departs at 9:10 PM. Schedules vary by weekday; check the Moovit app for real-time updates, alternative routes, and step-by-step directions.
Local Transport
A daily bus links Gorey and Courtown (except Sundays), though frequency and routes depend on the day. The R742 road provides direct access from Gorey, while the town's central car parks lead to wooden walkways and ramps guiding visitors to the beach.
For travelers without a car, combining train travel to Gorey with a bus or taxi is the most reliable option.
Parking
On-Site and Nearby Parking:
Two primary parking lots serve the beach-one near Courtown Woods and another at Courtown South Beach. These provide direct access to the sand via a wooden walkway, making it a short stroll to the shoreline. A larger car park is located to the left of the town, while a smaller lot is found after crossing a bridge. Along Sea Road, limited roadside parking is available for those seeking a closer spot.
Hotel Parking:
Guests staying at local hotels, such as Seafield Hotel, enjoy free parking. While this option requires a 15-minute walk through scenic woodland to reach the beach, the route features a family-friendly fairy trail, adding a magical touch to your journey.
Nearby Attractions
Courtown Woods
Just a stone's throw from Courtown village and its busy beach, Courtown Woods provides a peaceful green escape filled with history and nature. The woods have roots reaching back before the Famine, whe...
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Craanford Mills
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Curracloe Beach
Curracloe Beach, a sprawling 11-kilometer stretch of soft golden sand along County Wexford's southeastern coast, holds dual significance as both a natural wonder and a cinematic landmark. Its gently s...
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