Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua

About this spot

Trá an Dóilín is an unusual beach formed from a plethora of dead fragments of "maerl", a twig-like calcareous seaweed. This type of beach material is washed up at only a few locations in Ireland. It is an exposed beach which is subject to very strong wave action at times. The bathing area comprises a number of different habitats in close proximity to the beach including rocky outcrops, rock pools, off shore reefs and a fresh water lagoon. These different habitats support a variety of different plant, animal and bird species. It is a popular beach for snorkelling and diving.

Facilities & access

Lifeguard

Yes12-6 7 days July & Aug weekend June/Sept

Parking

Yes

Toilets

Yes

Accessible entry

No

Dogs

NoNo dogs allowed on designated blue flag beaches during lifeguard hours. Dogs allowed on a lead at all other times.

Public transport

No

Official water quality

Classified Excellent in 2025.

Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua has achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating for the four consecutive years 2022 to 2025. 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 Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua right now?

Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua 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 Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua?

the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) classified Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua 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 Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua?

There are no active bathing restrictions published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) for Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua. That is not a guarantee of safety — assess conditions yourself.

Is there a lifeguard at Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua?

Yes — Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua has lifeguard cover. Hours: 12-6 7 days July & Aug weekend June/Sept. Cover is seasonal; check locally before relying on it.

What facilities are there at Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua?

Trá an Dóilín, An Ceathrú Rua has toilets, parking. Dogs are restricted. Facility information is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland).