Overview
Old Head Beach lies east of Louisburgh on Clew Bay, on the Wild Atlantic Way. The headland shelters the sandy beach, but conditions still change with the weather and tide. Croagh Patrick stands across the water, and oak woodland lies behind the beach.
Why visit
The Old Head peninsula takes some of the brunt of the Atlantic, but conditions on the bay side still change with the weather and tide. Behind the beach, oak woodland meets the shore.
What to see and do
- Swimming – use the signed beach entrance and check the EPA’s Old Head bathing notices. Follow the signs and flags and swim where lifeguards are on duty. Keep clear of rocks, the pier and rough water.
- Paddling and rock pools – the shore is a good spot for children to paddle and explore at the water’s edge, with care. Conditions change with the tide.
- Views – look across Clew Bay to Croagh Patrick.
Walking and wildlife
Oldhead Wood Nature Reserve protects oak woodland by the bay. Follow any access signs and leave the woodland and shore undisturbed. The shore draws cormorants, shags, waders, gulls and terns, and seals turn up offshore now and then.
Practical information
Getting there and parking
Old Head lies east of Louisburgh, on the Clew Bay side of the road to Westport. Use the signed beach entrance and any signed parking only, and keep roads, gates and entrances clear.
Facilities and access
Facilities, lifeguard cover, sauna and other services vary through the year, so check local signs and notices on the day. Check local signs before bringing a dog.
Safety and lifeguards
Follow the signs and flags, and swim where lifeguards are on duty. Keep clear of rocks, the pier and rough water, and check the EPA bathing notices before you swim.
Nearby stays and attractions
Louisburgh has places to stay, and Westport is a short drive east, with the trailhead for the Great Western Greenway. With more time, the coast road south links to Silver Strand, the Lost Valley and Aasleagh Falls, and Ballycroy National Park is within reach for forest walks and more Atlantic coastline.
Come on a settled day, check the notices at the entrance, and leave the woodland and shore as you found them.