Small coastal village on the edge of the Burren region, North Clare, on the R477 coast road between Ballyvaughan and Doolin, where the Caher River enters the Atlantic Ocean. South of Galway Bay.
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Location
Access Information
Located off the R477 coast road. Free car park available. Beach bye-laws prohibit horse riding and dogs between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. during summer season (June 1st - Sept 15th).
Beach Details
Activities
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Windsurfing
- Walking
- Fishing
- Exploring rock pools
- Botany
Facilities
- Toilets (free)
- Lifeguards (seasonal: weekends May & Sept
- daily June-Aug
- 11am-7pm)
- Parking (free)
- Picnic area
- Surf School (Aloha Surf School)
- Showers
- Disability access
- Disability accessible parking
- Drinking water
- First Aid
- Information point
- Lifebuoy
- Litter bin
- Recycling facilities
- Surfboard zone
Environment
Extensive sand dunes ('Rabbit Warren'), Burren karst landscape, Caher River estuary.
Conservation Status
Located within the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Dunes are part of a conservation area (likely SAC, but specific designation unconfirmed).
Views
Atlantic Ocean, Galway Bay, Aran Islands, Connemara mountains, Burren landscape.
Wildlife
Unique Burren flora and fauna (including rare orchids, butterflies), Dolphins (occasional sightings), Jellyfish, Weever fish, various seabirds.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Located in the Burren region, known for unique geology, archaeology, and botany. Nearby archaeological sites. Part of the Wild Atlantic Way (Discovery Point). Burial place of John O'Donoghue.
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Reviews
Reviews Summary
Highly rated for its stunning natural beauty, clean sands, clear water, and dramatic Burren backdrop. Popular for swimming, surfing, and walking. Seasonal lifeguards and facilities like toilets and parking are appreciated. Some reviews mention jellyfish and weever fish as potential hazards.
I loved visiting Fanore. Its majestic views of the Atlantic coast and its beautiful blue waters were breathtaking. I even got my feet wet in the calm waters. The volcanic rock formations were a sign of an ancient time and the dunes were sat high above the sea. The mountain ranges off to the north were breathtaking and made you feel so very small. The world is much larger than you think from your own backyard.
Exploring Ireland we found this beach. Absolutely stunning. We arrived around 9am and a few camper vans with surfers were already out in the water. The free carpark had toilets which were also free use. We settled on the beach and walked down to the sea. It was covered in jelly fish. No ones fault so while we dug we flicked them out the way. Wear water shoes if going in the sea. The surfers and swimmers didn't seem to mind though. Lifeguards were stationed from around 10am. They are situated near the picnic benches. It did get busy but the sun was shining so expected. Plenty of space along the beach to pitch though. A lovely day had by all the family.
Excellent experience one of the nicest beach4s ever.the weather was great the sub was shinning people were very helpful.
Our B & B hostess suggested we visit Fanore Beach, traveling from Kenmare to Ballyvaughan. We walked along the promenade and also along the beach. We sat on the rocks and watched the surfers from the surfing school practicing. There are beautiful views of the Burren along with the sea views. Parking is pay and display. There is a play ground in a fenced in area next to the beach. There is an ice cream shop, cafe and restrooms near the playground. It seems like there should be picnic tables or benches along the beach or promenade, but we did not see any.
Recently stayed just up the street from this beach - what a hidden gem! Sadly the weather was cloudy and cold while there but the beach was still beautiful. I look forward to visiting the area again someday and hopefully can enjoy the beach with better weather.
Beware of jellyfish if you have dogs. I stupidly let my golden retriever swim in ocean and think she was stung by the jellyfish as has not been herself since she came home so take caution letting dogs in water
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