Located in Malin Beg, a Gaeltacht village on the southwest coast of County Donegal, near Glencolmcille on the Slieve League Peninsula. Described as remote, on the extreme western point of rural Donegal.
Beach Gallery
Location
Access Information
Accessed via narrow roads. Beach access involves a steep descent down concrete steps (approx. 169-200 steps) with handrails, potentially difficult for those with limited mobility.
Beach Details
Activities
- Swimming
- Walking
- Sightseeing
- Photography
- Enjoying sunset
Facilities
- Very limited. Car parking available at the top of the cliffs. A portaloo was reported in the car park (June 2024). A coffee van may be present seasonally. No other public facilities (toilets
- showers
- lifeguards) reported at the beach itself.
Environment
Nestled in a horseshoe-shaped bay/cove below green headlands (approx. 60m high). Sheltered location protected by cliffs.
Views
Spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounding cliffs, headlands, and potentially Rathlin O'Birne Island.
Wildlife
Sheep often seen near the steps/cliffs. Marine wildlife possible but not specifically detailed in searches.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Nearby Martello tower in Malin Beg village. Site mentioned in relation to emigration during the Great Famine (1847).
Beach Tags
Reviews
Reviews Summary
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, frequently describing the beach as 'beautiful,' 'stunning,' 'spectacular,' 'peaceful,' and a 'hidden gem.' The main drawback mentioned is the steep steps (approx. 169-200 steps) required for access, making it difficult for those with mobility issues. The remoteness and narrow access roads are also noted, but considered worth the effort for the scenery and tranquility. Swimming, walking, and enjoying the views/sunset are common activities mentioned.
(Steve98001, Feb 2025, Couples) "Came by on our road trip around the peninsula. Beach was gorgeous but the wind was howling. Still went down to the beach and it was beautiful."
(PatriciaInWhitehead, Aug 2024, Couples) "Definitely in the top 3 beaches in Donegal. We stayed the night in a self contained motorhome and went to sleep after the most spectacular sunset. No cars, no noise, darkness just the sounds of waves. I'm not the fitness of people but with breaks managed the steps. The walk on the beach was worth it. Arches, cliffs and caves to be seen. Well worth visiting."
(rogersober, Jul 2024, Family) "A beautiful beach on a windy day that had to be seen up close. So down the steps you go the very nice handrails. One hundred and sixty nine steps. The shimmering rocks on the beach and in the walls are very interesting. The walk was nice and then up the stairs to the car park the strained hamstrings for all."
(Four 22, Jun 2024, Couples) "A wonderful beach - isolated and unspoilt. It is at the bottom of a steep set of concrete steps (sheep have priority crossing!) The car park at the top has a portaloo but that is it - no tea/ coffee outlet."
(Paul O, Jun 2024, Couples) "We visited here while staying in nearby Louisburgh. The drive is along some very narrow roads so be prepared to find a space to pull in when meeting any oncoming traffic. However, the effort is worth is as beach is beautiful and even though we visited on a very sunny June Bank holiday weekend it was not busy. There is a decent size car park and from here it’s a lovely walk down across the golden sand to the water. Overall a beautiful peaceful beach."
(Daniel & Roseann, Jul 2023, Family) "We had heard about this beach and while in the area decided to check it out. It is a good few miles off the main road but well worth the effort. It is simply beautiful and one of the nicest beaches we have ever seen."
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