Clare Island, Louisburgh

Clare Island Beach extends from the old pier on the south side of the beach to the stony shoreline on the northern end adjacent to the Community Centre. There are submerged rocks at the northern end of the beach. As the beach is located in the main harbour, there are numerous domestic and commercial dwellings in close proximity to the beach. Clare Island Cliffs cSAC and pNHA ( Site Code 002243) encompasses the sea cliffs of the north west, north, west and south coastline. There are many historical sites located throughout Clare Island. Activities include swimming, sailing, canoeing, scuba-diving/snorkelling and fishing.

Clare Island lies in Clew Bay in County Mayo approximately 5km from the mainland and is the largest of the 365 islands in the Bay. Regular ferries sail from Roonagh Pier, located to the west of Louisburgh, all year round with increased ferry crossings during the summer months. The ferry crossing takes approximately 20 mins. The beach at Clare Island is located on the east side of the island adjacent to the harbour. Clare Island Beach is a gently sloping beach, open to the east. It is enclosed on the southern side by a pier and on the northern side by a rocky shore.

Immediately to the rear of the beach is one of the main access roads on the island and a pedestrian footpath. Camping is permitted at the rear of the beach. As the beach is located in the main harbour, there are numerous domestic and commercial dwellings in close proximity to the beach. The island community centre is also located to the rear of the beach.