Garretstown Beach: A Coastal Haven in County Cork
Discover Garretstown Beach in County Cork: a scenic coastal escape offering sandy shores, surf-ready waves, and outdoor adventures for all ages.
Garretstown Beach, nestled in County Cork, Ireland, is a picturesque sandy expanse renowned for its inviting surf and tranquil coastal scenery. Backed by rolling dunes and offering stunning views of the Old Head of Kinsale, it's a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Garretstown Beach
- Co. Cork, IE
Local tips
- Visit during the summer for lifeguard supervision and ideal swimming conditions.
- Check the tide times before you go to make the most of the sandy expanse.
- Explore the nearby Garretstown Marsh for birdwatching and a scenic coastal trail.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are limited food options directly on site.
- Consider visiting the Old Head of Kinsale, a short drive away, for stunning views and historical landmarks.
Getting There
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Driving
From Cork, take the R600 west towards Kinsale. Continue through Kinsale, following the R600 to Ballinspittle. From Ballinspittle, take the R604 and follow the signs to Garretstown Beach. Paid parking is available at the beach entrance, but spaces are limited. Street parking is also available nearby. Parking costs approximately €2-€5 for the day.
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Public Transport
From Cork city, take the West Cork Connect bus to Kinsale. From Kinsale, transfer to the local link bus 253 towards Garretstown. The bus will drop you off near Garretstown Beach. A single fare on the West Cork Connect bus from Cork to Kinsale is approximately €8-€12. The local link bus from Kinsale to Garretstown is approximately €3-€5.
Discover more about Garretstown Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Downmacpatrick (Old Head) Castle
4.0 km
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Trident Hotel Kinsale
7.7 km
Experience luxury and vibrant local culture at Trident Hotel Kinsale, your perfect base for exploring the stunning Irish coast.
The Black Pig
7.7 km
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Whitecastle
7.8 km
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Actons Hotel Kinsale
7.8 km
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Kinsale Harbour Cruises
7.8 km
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Fishy Fishy Kinsale
7.8 km
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Gairdín Féileacán agus Clós Súgartha
7.8 km
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The Flying Poet Aviation Café - Coffee, Food, and Wine
7.8 km
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Kinsale Pottery | Pottery & Arts Centre Kinsale
7.8 km
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War of Independence Memory Stone
7.9 km
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The Boathouse Gallery
7.9 km
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Dinos
7.9 km
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Lord Kingsale
7.9 km
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Jim Edwards
7.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Garrettstown House Holiday Park
1.2 km
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Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower
3.7 km
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Cliffs Old Head of Kinsale
3.9 km
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The Cush Wall
4.0 km
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Old Head of Kinsale
5.0 km
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Old Head Golf Links
5.1 km
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Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance
5.5 km
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Cammogue Marsh Wildlife Marsh and Bird Sanctuary
6.8 km
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Kinsale Beach
7.4 km
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Dock Beach
7.4 km
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Kinsale War Memorial
7.6 km
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P&S Place
7.6 km
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James Fort
7.7 km
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Kinsale Town Park
7.8 km
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Galleon Mast
7.8 km
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Essential places to dine
The speckled door
2.2 km
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Wild Restaurant Cork
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Fisherman’s Catch (food truck)
6.7 km
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P I Z Z A R U S T I K A
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The Pink Elephant
7.0 km
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The Dock Bar
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The White Lady Restaurant
7.6 km
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Wharf Tavern
7.7 km
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Pizza
7.7 km
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Food U
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No. 19 Restaurant
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Sigarca Limited
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Sidneys Bar & Brasserie
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Bruno's Italian Eatery
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Pier Road Social
7.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Coolmain Curios
6.2 km
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jane
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Lindas Of Kinsale
7.8 km
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Rain Kinsale
7.8 km
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Kinsale Leather
7.8 km
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Granny's Bottom Drawer
7.8 km
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Chaac
7.9 km
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Firkail
7.9 km
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Scilly Art
7.9 km
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enibas
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COOLEEZ Kids Kinsale
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FatFace
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Footloose
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Mad For Style
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The wine buff
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Blue Room
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Oscar Madisons
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The Tap Tavern
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The Market Bar
8.0 km
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Dalton's Bar and Accommodation Kinsale
8.0 km
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The Grey Hound
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Sams Bar
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O'Sullivans Bar & Restaurant, Douglas
27.6 km
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South County
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The Beer Garden
28.2 km
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Gaia
28.4 km
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Coughlans Bar
28.7 km
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The Oval
29.0 km
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The Silly Goose
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The Alibi Bar + Kitchen
29.0 km
Experience Cork's lively nightlife at The Alibi Bar + Kitchen, where expertly crafted cocktails and delicious tapas await in a vibrant setting.