Achill Island's Secret Beach: A Hidden Coastal Gem
Discover Achill Island's best-kept secret: a remote beach with stunning scenery, rich history, and tranquil escape on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
Nestled on the north side of Achill Island, Annagh, also known as the Secret Beach, is a secluded paradise framed by dramatic cliffs and the slopes of Croaghaun mountain. Accessible only by foot or boat, this remote haven offers tranquility and stunning natural beauty, complete with a freshwater lake and megalithic tomb.
A brief summary to Achill Island Secret Beach
- Slievemore, Co. Mayo, IE
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and the best light for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy while soaking in the natural beauty of the beach.
- Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the surrounding trails and rocky areas.
- Check the tide schedule to experience the beach's sandy stretch at low tide.
Getting There
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Walking
From Slievemore village, find the unmarked path heading towards the coast. The walk to Achill Island Secret Beach takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The path can be uneven, so wear sturdy footwear.
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Driving
From Achill Sound, drive west on the N59, then turn left onto the R319 towards Keel. After 5km, follow signs to Slievemore. In Slievemore, look for an unmarked road on the right leading to the beach. Park in the designated area and walk down to the Secret Beach. Parking is usually available.
Discover more about Achill Island Secret Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Achill Island Secret Beach
0.0 km
Discover Achill Island's best-kept secret: a remote beach with stunning scenery, rich history, and tranquil escape on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
Teach Cruachan B&B
2.7 km
Discover Achill Island's Wild Atlantic Way from Teach Cruachan B&B: Comfort, stunning views, and adventure await!
Achill West Coast House
2.8 km
Experience coastal charm at Achill West Coast House B&B. Discover stunning views, cozy rooms, and easy access to Achill Island's beauty.
Achill Island Property
2.9 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty and rich heritage of Achill Island, Ireland's largest island, where adventure meets tranquility.
Achill Maritime History Trail Point No. 10
3.7 km
Explore Achill Island's maritime past at this scenic trail point near Corrymore, where history meets breathtaking coastal views.
Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant
4.2 km
Experience coastal bliss at Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant: stunning views, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring Achill Island.
Slievemore
5.0 km
Hike to the summit of Slievemore on Achill Island for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich history.
White Cliffs of Ashleam
14.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Achill Island's White Cliffs of Ashleam, a dramatic coastal landscape along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Cottages
14.5 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island from the comfort of charming, highly-rated cottages in a serene coastal setting. Book your escape today!
Anvil House
15.4 km
Experience Achill Island charm at Anvil House B&B: Modern comfort, friendly service, and the perfect location for island adventures.
Achill Sound Hotel & Connaughton's Bar
15.6 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at Achill Sound Hotel, your gateway to Achill Island's beauty and adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Tourism Office (Achill Sound)
15.6 km
Your essential guide to exploring Achill Island: maps, tips, events, and local expertise for an unforgettable adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Island Hotel
15.8 km
Experience Achill Island's rugged beauty and warm hospitality at this family-run hotel on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Granuaile Loop Walk
16.5 km
Hike Achill Island's Granuaile Loop for stunning coastal views, historical insights, and a memorable Wild Atlantic Way experience.
Achillbeg
19.1 km
Discover Achillbeg Island: an unspoiled Irish escape with dramatic cliffs, tranquil scenery, and a rich history waiting to be explored.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hills upon Keel West
3.6 km
Discover breathtaking coastal views at Hills upon Keel West in Keem, Co. Mayo – a haven of natural beauty and tranquility on Achill Island.
Ronan Halpin Gallery
3.7 km
Discover unique Irish sculpture and landscape paintings at Ronan Halpin Gallery, reflecting the beauty and spirit of Achill Island.
Slievemore Deserted Village
3.7 km
Discover the haunting beauty of Slievemore Deserted Village in County Mayo, where history and nature intertwine for a unique travel experience.
The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre
3.8 km
Explore marine life and local history at The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre on Achill Island, a must-visit for nature lovers and families.
Western Light Art Gallery
4.5 km
Discover art inspired by Achill Island's beauty at the Western Light Art Gallery, featuring paintings, photography, and sculptures by local and international artists.
Megalithic Tomb
4.8 km
Explore the ancient wonders of the Megalithic Tomb in Co. Mayo, a captivating historical landmark that reveals the secrets of Ireland's past.
Keel beach
4.9 km
Achill Island's Keel Beach: A stunning 3.5km sandy haven for watersports, swimming, and breathtaking views of the Minaun Cliffs.
Croaghaun Southwest Top
5.0 km
Discover Ireland's highest sea cliffs on Achill Island. Hike to breathtaking views and experience the wild beauty of Croaghaun's dramatic coastline.
Cliffs of Croaghaun
5.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Cliffs of Croaghaun in Co. Mayo, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty along Ireland's rugged coastline.
Beach at Keel West
5.2 km
Discover Keel West Beach: a picturesque escape on Achill Island with golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil coastal walks along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Keem Bay
5.3 km
Discover Keem Bay: Achill Island's breathtaking beach, framed by dramatic cliffs and steeped in history, along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Moyteoge Head
5.5 km
Discover panoramic ocean views and historical ruins atop Achill Island's stunning Moyteoge Head, a Wild Atlantic Way gem.
Book Achill's Number 1 Walking Tour Attraction - The Colony Tour
7.3 km
Uncover Achill Island's hidden history on a guided walking tour through the ruins of a 19th-century Protestant mission.
Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth
7.3 km
Find serenity on Achill Island: Walk the ancient path of the Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth in County Mayo for reflection and peace.
Cathedral Rocks
7.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Cathedral Rocks in Co. Mayo, a natural wonder with stunning views and exhilarating hiking opportunities.
Essential places to dine
Lourdie's Pub
2.6 km
Discover authentic Irish hospitality at Lourdie's Pub in Dooagh - where great food meets lively music in a cozy atmosphere.
Gielty's Bar and Restaurant
2.8 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant local culture at Gielty's Bar and Restaurant on Achill Island.
Achill Head Hotel
3.6 km
Discover Achill Head Hotel - A culinary delight in Co. Mayo with vibrant nightlife and stunning coastal views.
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4.1 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Keel East Bar in Achill—where stunning views meet vibrant culture.
Joyce's Guesthouse
4.1 km
Discover the beauty of Achill Island while enjoying exceptional hospitality at Joyce's Guesthouse - your perfect Irish retreat.
The Amethyst Bar
4.1 km
Experience the best of Irish cuisine at The Amethyst Bar - where delicious grill dishes meet stunning scenery in Keel.
Ár Bia Mara
4.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Ár Bia Mara on Achill Island, where every dish celebrates Ireland's coastal bounty.
The Currach
4.2 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Currach in Keel, Co. Mayo—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Islander - Megs
4.2 km
Experience delicious fast food at The Islander - Megs in Achill, Co. Mayo; where local charm meets flavorful cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.
BERVIE GUESTHOUSE
4.3 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and stunning views at Bervie Guesthouse, your perfect retreat on beautiful Achill Island.
Pure Magic Achill Lodge
5.2 km
Discover Pure Magic Achill Lodge - A Cozy Restaurant & Lodge Offering Delicious Food Amidst Stunning Landscapes on Achill Island.
The Cross
6.2 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at The Cross on Achill Island—where great food meets stunning scenery.
Strand Hotel Dugort Achill Co Mayo
7.0 km
Discover warm hospitality at The Strand Hotel on Achill Island—your gateway to Ireland's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Mastersons Bar and Restaurant
9.2 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Mastersons Bar and Restaurant on Achill Island - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
The Valley House Hostel and Bar
10.8 km
Experience comfort and community at The Valley House Hostel and Bar on Achill Island – where delicious food meets vibrant nightlife.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Achill island kitchen @ Dooagh shop
2.7 km
Discover local flavors at Achill Island Kitchen, a charming grocery store in Dooagh offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Achill Crafty Ladies
2.8 km
Discover the beauty of Irish craftsmanship at Achill Crafty Ladies, a charming craft store showcasing unique handmade treasures from local artisans.
The Fish Shop
3.9 km
Discover the freshest seafood at The Fish Shop on Achill Island, where local catches meet expert cooking tips for culinary enthusiasts.
Achill Island Pottery
4.0 km
Explore the unique handcrafted treasures at Achill Island Pottery, a must-visit for art lovers and souvenir seekers in scenic Co. Mayo.
Beehive Crafts and Gifts
4.1 km
Explore Beehive Crafts and Gifts on Achill Island for unique handmade treasures and a cozy café experience amidst stunning Irish landscapes.
Barretts XL
4.2 km
Discover the heart of local shopping at Barretts XL in Achill, where community spirit meets quality groceries.
Nicholson's Gala
4.2 km
Experience the local flavors at Nicholson's Gala, the charming grocery store in Keel East, Co. Mayo, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
The Top Drawer and Pantry
4.2 km
Discover local treasures at The Top Drawer and Pantry, Achill Island's beloved store for artisanal foods and unique crafts.
Calveys Butchers Achill
4.2 km
Discover the best of Achill Island's culinary scene at Calveys Butchers, renowned for its exceptional Achill Lamb and local specialties.
Red Fox Press
7.7 km
Explore the artistic essence of Co. Mayo at Red Fox Press, a captivating gallery dedicated to beautiful book prints and local creativity.
Achill Island Sea Salt
10.1 km
Experience the unique flavors of Achill Island Sea Salt, where traditional methods meet the best of Ireland's natural resources.
Achill Island Distillery
10.3 km
Experience the rich heritage of Irish whiskey-making at Achill Island Distillery, where tradition meets breathtaking landscapes.
Boreen Gallery
11.5 km
Explore the vibrant Boreen Gallery on Achill Island, showcasing local art, crafts, and photography in a breathtaking coastal setting.
Blásta Bikes
11.8 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island on two wheels with Blásta Bikes, your premier bicycle rental service for scenic adventures.
Achill Island flowers
15.3 km
Discover the vibrant floral beauty of Achill Island at Achill Island Flowers, where nature's artistry flourishes amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Basking Shark Bar
4.1 km
The Basking Shark Bar in Keel East, Co. Mayo, offers a cozy retreat with local flavors and stunning views, perfect for travelers seeking Irish hospitality.
Lounge Bar
4.3 km
Discover the lively Lounge Bar in Co. Mayo, where traditional Irish hospitality meets a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
The Compass Bar
19.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Compass Bar, a charming pub on Achill Island, perfect for unwinding with local drinks and music.
Munnelly's Bar Lounge
19.9 km
Discover the charm of Munnelly's Bar Lounge in Gweesalia, Co. Mayo, where Irish hospitality meets delightful local brews.
Blouser's Pub
45.6 km
Discover the charm of Blouser's Pub in Westport, where authentic Irish hospitality meets a vibrant atmosphere and a delightful selection of drinks.
The Jester Bar
45.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Jester Bar, a premier sports bar in Westport, Co. Mayo, where great food meets live sports action.
Mac Brides Bar
45.8 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mac Brides Bar in Westport – where every drink tells a story and every visit feels like home.
Morans Pub
45.8 km
Discover the delightful ambiance and unique character of Morans Pub, a true Irish bar in the heart of Westport, County Mayo.
Cosy Joe's
45.8 km
Cosy Joe's: A charming cocktail bar in Westport, offering creative drinks and a warm atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Old Grainstore Westport
45.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic pub culture at The Old Grainstore in Westport, where every visit feels like home.
Danny's
45.8 km
Experience the excitement of sports and the warmth of community at Danny's, Westport's favorite sports bar with delicious food and live entertainment.
The Brewery
45.8 km
Experience the heart of Westport at The Brewery, a cozy bar offering local brews, live music, and a taste of Irish hospitality.
Walsh's
45.8 km
Discover the charm of Walsh's Bar in Westport, a lively spot for drinks, delicious food, and a taste of authentic Irish culture.
Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar
45.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar in Westport - where creative cocktails and fine wines blend beautifully.
Petie Joes Bar
45.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Petie Joe's Bar, where great food and vibrant atmosphere meet in the heart of Westport.
