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Keem Bay: Achill Island's Coastal Gem

Discover Keem Bay: Achill Island's breathtaking beach, framed by dramatic cliffs and steeped in history, along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.

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Keem Bay, nestled on Achill Island, is a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay boasting a Blue Flag beach, dramatic cliffs, and a rich history tied to fishing and even a bit of Hollywood glamour, thanks to its appearance in 'The Banshees of Inisherin'.

A brief summary to Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Keem Bay

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during summer, as parking is limited and the beach is very popular.
  • Take the cliff-top drive to Keem Bay for stunning views, but be aware that the road is narrow.
  • Check the lifeguard schedule if you plan to swim, as the beach is lifeguarded during the bathing season.
  • Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the Blueway snorkel trail in the bay.
  • Hike along the Benmore cliffs for panoramic views of Achill Island, but stay away from the cliff edge.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Achill Sound, follow the R319 west towards Keel. Continue past Keel and Dooagh. The road climbs dramatically, becoming a narrow cliff-top route. Exercise caution and be prepared to meet oncoming traffic. Parking is available at Keem Bay, but it fills up quickly during peak season. Parking is free. Note: Never park along the road.

  • Public Transport

    Take Bus Éireann route 450 from Westport or Castlebar to Achill Sound. From Achill Sound, local buses or taxis can take you to Keem Bay, but services are limited. Check local schedules and availability in advance. A taxi from Achill Sound to Keem Bay will cost approximately €30-€40. A local bus, if available, would be a fraction of this cost.

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Discover more about Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Keem Bay

Keem Bay, a jewel on Achill Island in County Mayo, is a sight to behold. This idyllic, horseshoe-shaped bay is framed by the towering cliffs of Benmore to the west and the slopes of Croaghaun Mountain to the east. The sheltered, Blue Flag beach at the head of the valley beckons visitors with its golden sands and clear turquoise waters. Keem Bay's history is as captivating as its scenery. In the mid-20th century, it was a hub for basking shark fishing, the sharks hunted for their valuable liver oil. The artist Paul Henry immortalized Keem Bay in his famous painting 'Launching the Currach', capturing the essence of traditional Irish fishing. The bay also has connections to Captain Charles Cunningham Boycott, whose estate was once located here. More recently, Keem Bay served as a filming location for 'The Banshees of Inisherin'. Today, Keem Bay offers a peaceful escape and a range of activities. Swim in the clear waters, explore the Blueway snorkel trail, or hike along the cliffs for panoramic views. The adventurous can trace the remains of a booley village or search for amethyst quartz in the cliffside. Keep an eye out for marine life, including dolphins, seals, and even basking sharks.

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