Dog's Bay: A Horseshoe of White Sand in Connemara
Discover Dog's Bay: A stunning white-sand beach near Roundstone, where turquoise waters meet a unique landscape of ecological significance.
Dog's Bay, near Roundstone, Co. Galway, is a stunning horseshoe-shaped beach boasting over 1.5km of pure white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Backed by sand dunes and offering shelter from strong currents, it's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The sand is made of tiny seashells, not rock, and the area is a Special Area of Conservation with rare machair vegetation.
A brief summary to Dog's Bay
- Roundstone, Errisbeg West, Co. Galway, IE
- +35391509510
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially in summer, as the small car park fills up quickly.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no cafes or restaurants directly on-site.
- Be mindful of the fragile sand dunes and avoid walking in restricted areas to protect the Special Area of Conservation.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting to make the most of the calm, clear waters.
- Explore nearby Gurteen Bay and the village of Roundstone for a complete experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From Roundstone, Dog's Bay is approximately a 7-minute drive. Take the R341 west towards Dog's Bay. Follow the road until you reach the designated parking area near the beach. Parking is free, but the lot is small and fills quickly in the summer. As an alternative, if Dog's Bay parking is full, consider parking at nearby Gurteen Bay and walking over.
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Public Transport
From Galway, take Bus Éireann route 419 to Clifden. From Clifden, transfer to TFI Local Link Galway route 432 to Roundstone. From Roundstone, it is best to take a taxi or drive the remaining 4km to Dog's Bay. The bus from Galway to Roundstone will cost approximately €35-€50. A taxi from Roundstone to Dog's Bay will cost approximately €10-€15.
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Walking
From Roundstone village, it is approximately a 4 kilometer walk to Dog's Bay via the R341 road. The walk will take about an hour. Be aware that there is no dedicated pedestrian path, so exercise caution on the road.
Discover more about Dog's Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Moyrus Beach
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Marconi Radio Station
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Connemara Smokehouse, Factory Shop & Cafe
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Ballynahinch Castle
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Walk Connemara
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Connemara Real Adventures
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Pines Island Viewpoint
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Connemara Giant
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Connemara National Park Viewpoint
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Connemara National Park lodge
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Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh, Conamara
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Cleggan Cliffs
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Lettergesh Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Gurteen Bay
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Trá na Feadóige
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Move with Nature - Kayak, Windsurf, Ski, Husky Sledding - Ireland & Finland
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Trá Tailelaith'Chastro
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Inishlackan
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Roundstone Music & Crafts / Malachy Kearns
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Roundstone bay and island boat and food tour
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Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Glinsce
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Roundstone Bog
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Beach hidden
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Alcock and Brown landing site
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The Lodge Beach
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Essential places to dine
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Glynsk House
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The Pink Wagon
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Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant
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Owenmore Restaurant
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Fisherman's Pub
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Jasmine Garden
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The Lamplight
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Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar
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Mitchell's Restaurant
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Guys Bar Clifden
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The Hungry Hiker Cafe
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Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant
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Connemara Woodfire
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant
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