Portarthur, Derrybeg

About this spot

Portarthur beach is a north facing, long sandy beach; confined by a rocky outcrop east of Inishmeane Island to the North and a small estuary to the south. Fixed dunes are frequent throughout the site. They support a wide variety of plant species including some rare plant forms. There are also a wide range of bird species. Portarthur is situated in a Gaeltacht area with a variety of islands off the coast. Activities at Portarthur beach include swimming, kayaking, boating, sailing, power boating, jet skiing, diving and other land based activities on the beach. The designated bathing area is approx. 0.225km2 and the extent along the water is approximately is 1070m. There is a deep gradient off Portarthur Beach with the water depth reaching 1m approx. 10m from the water line and continuing out at a deep slope.

Facilities & access

Lifeguard

No

Parking

Yes

Toilets

No

Accessible entry

Yes

Dogs

Yes

Public transport

No

Official water quality

Classified Excellent in 2025.

Portarthur, Derrybeg is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Portarthur, Derrybeg achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating in 2023 and 2024 and a Good Water Quality rating in 2022. Annual water quality ratings are generally calculated using monitoring results over a four-year period and are assessed against stringent bacterial limits to protect bather health.

Common questions

Can you swim at Portarthur, Derrybeg right now?

Portarthur, Derrybeg is currently marked "Good to go". No current pollution alerts — always assess conditions yourself. This reflects the latest data published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland). Conditions change quickly — always assess the water yourself before entering.

What is the water quality like at Portarthur, Derrybeg?

the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) classified Portarthur, Derrybeg as Excellent in 2025. Classifications are a rolling assessment of bacterial samples taken over four bathing seasons, measured against E. coli and intestinal enterococci limits set by the EU Bathing Water Directive.

Is there a swimming ban or warning at Portarthur, Derrybeg?

There are no active bathing restrictions published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) for Portarthur, Derrybeg. That is not a guarantee of safety — assess conditions yourself.

Is there a lifeguard at Portarthur, Derrybeg?

No lifeguard cover is listed for Portarthur, Derrybeg. Never swim alone at an unguarded spot.

What facilities are there at Portarthur, Derrybeg?

Portarthur, Derrybeg has parking, accessible entry. Facility information is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland).