Clare Island, Louisburgh

About this spot

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.

Facilities & access

Lifeguard

No

Parking

Yes

Toilets

Yes

Accessible entry

YesRamp leading to beach.

Dogs

YesDogs only allowed before 12pm and after 6.30pm during the bathing season (1st June to 15th September) otherwise allowed at all times onto beach.

Public transport

No

Official water quality

Classified Excellent in 2025.

Clare Island, Louisburgh is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Clare Island, Louisburgh achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating for four consecutive years 2024 to 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 Clare Island, Louisburgh right now?

Clare Island, Louisburgh 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 Clare Island, Louisburgh?

the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) classified Clare Island, Louisburgh 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 Clare Island, Louisburgh?

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

Is there a lifeguard at Clare Island, Louisburgh?

No lifeguard cover is listed for Clare Island, Louisburgh. Never swim alone at an unguarded spot.

What facilities are there at Clare Island, Louisburgh?

Clare Island, Louisburgh has toilets, parking, accessible entry. Facility information is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland).