Caves of Maghera: Donegal's Coastal Secret
Explore Donegal's wild coast: Discover the enchanting Caves of Maghera and its breathtaking beach, a haven of natural beauty and folklore.
Maghera Beach, near Ardara, Co. Donegal, is a stunning stretch of white sand backed by dramatic cliffs, hiding a network of over 20 caves, 8 arches, and 5 tunnels. Accessible at low tide, these caves offer a unique and somewhat adventurous experience, steeped in local folklore. However, strong currents and rip tides make swimming dangerous, and entering the caves requires careful attention to tide times.
A brief summary to Caves of Maghera
- Ardara, Maghera, Co. Donegal, IE
- Visit website
- 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
- Check tide times before visiting to safely explore the caves. The caves are only accessible at low tide.
- Wear appropriate footwear for walking on sand and exploring potentially slippery cave surfaces.
- Be aware of strong currents and rip tides; swimming is not recommended at Maghera Beach.
- Bring cash for parking at the privately-owned car park.
- A torch can be useful for exploring the darker recesses of the caves.
Getting There
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Driving
From Ardara, follow the R261 west for approximately 6.4km. Turn left onto Maghera Road, and continue for another 3.2km to reach the Maghera Beach car park. Parking costs €3-4 (cash only). From the car park, it's a 200-400m walk to the beach and caves.
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Public Transport
Take the Bus Éireann Route 30 from Donegal Town to Ardara. From Ardara, TFI Local Link services may offer connections closer to Maghera Beach. Check local timetables for the most up-to-date information. Alternatively, taxis are available in Ardara for the final leg of the journey; expect to pay around €15-€20 for a one-way trip to Maghera Beach.
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Walking
From Assaranca Waterfall, it is possible to walk to Maghera Beach. The walk is roughly 1km. Follow the road towards the beach. Please be aware that there are no footpaths on this road.
Discover more about Caves of Maghera
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maghera Beach
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Maghera Beach in County Donegal, a picturesque haven of golden sands and dramatic cliffs along Ireland's stunning coastline.
Slieve League SE Top
16.5 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and rugged beauty of Slieve League SE Top, a must-visit mountain peak in Donegal, Ireland.
Slieve League One Man's Pass
16.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling hikes at Slieve League One Man's Pass, one of Ireland's highest sea cliffs in County Donegal.
Teelin Pier
16.8 km
Explore the serene Teelin Pier in County Donegal, where stunning landscapes and rich fishing traditions await your discovery.
Sliabh Liag Boat Trips
16.8 km
Discover the stunning cliffs and wildlife of Sliabh Liag with unforgettable boat trips along Ireland's majestic coastline.
Kilcar Viewpoint
16.9 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views at Kilcar Viewpoint, a must-visit hiking destination in Co. Donegal, Ireland.
Slieve League Car Park
17.4 km
Experience the unrivaled beauty of Slieve League Car Park, your gateway to Ireland's breathtaking cliffs and stunning coastal views.
Sliabh Liag Walk
17.8 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and breathtaking views of Sliabh Liag Walk, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs in County Donegal, Ireland.
Sliabh Liag Viewing Platform
17.9 km
Experience the breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views at Sliabh Liag Viewing Platform, a must-visit scenic spot in County Donegal, Ireland.
Bunglass Point
18.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Bunglass Point in Co. Donegal, where soaring cliffs meet the majestic Atlantic Ocean.
Slieve League View Walk
18.0 km
Experience the breathtaking heights and stunning vistas of Slieve League View Walk, a must-see destination in County Donegal, Ireland.
Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Sliabh Liag (No Signpost)
18.0 km
Discover the awe-inspiring cliffs of Sliabh Liag along the Wild Atlantic Way, a must-visit for breathtaking views and rich Irish heritage.
Killaghtee Old Church, Cemetery, and Ancient Stone Slab Cross
18.2 km
Discover the historical significance and serene beauty of Killaghtee Old Church and Cemetery in County Donegal, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
McSwyne's Castle
19.0 km
Experience the historic allure of McSwyne's Castle, a stunning 16th-century stronghold set against the magnificent landscapes of County Donegal.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Málainn Bhig(Malin beg)
19.0 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and serene beach of Malin Beg, a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal, Ireland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Assaranca Waterfall (Eas a' Ranca)
1.6 km
Discover the enchanting Assaranca Waterfall in Donegal, a breathtaking natural attraction showcasing Ireland's stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere.
Rossbeg Beach
6.5 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Rossbeg Beach, a hidden gem in Donegal's stunning coastline perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Doon Fortress / Fort
8.5 km
Discover the historic Doon Fortress in County Donegal, a captivating landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich heritage.
Glenlough Bay
8.6 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and serene hiking trails of Glenlough Bay, a hidden gem in County Donegal, Ireland.
Kilclooney Dolmen
8.8 km
Explore Kilclooney Dolmen, a magnificent ancient portal tomb in County Donegal, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich Irish heritage.
Narin/Portnoo viewpoint
9.6 km
Discover breathtaking coastal views at Narin/Portnoo viewpoint, a hidden gem on Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way. Perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
Portnoo View Point
9.8 km
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O Boyles Cauldron
9.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of O Boyles Cauldron in County Donegal, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Glencolumbkille Picnic Area
13.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Glencolumbkille Picnic Area in County Donegal, a perfect destination for nature lovers and picnic enthusiasts.
Tobar Cholmcille, St. Columbas Well
13.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Tobar Cholmcille, a historic pilgrimage site in County Donegal, known for its spiritual significance and stunning landscapes.
Seamus McGinley Bridge
14.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Seamus McGinley Bridge, a must-visit tourist attraction in Co. Donegal, Ireland.
Salmon Leap
14.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Salmon Leap, a natural wonder in County Donegal, where adventure meets serenity amidst stunning landscapes.
River Glen park
14.5 km
Discover serene landscapes and diverse wildlife in River Glen Park, a hidden gem in County Donegal, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Glencolumbkille Beach
14.5 km
Experience the scenic beauty and rich culture of Glencolumbkille Beach in Donegal, Ireland's hidden coastal treasure.
The Little Cells
14.6 km
Discover the captivating beauty and rich history at The Little Cells in Killybegs, Co. Donegal, a must-see tourist attraction in Ireland.
Essential places to dine
Dawros Bay House
6.7 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Dawros Bay House, where fresh oysters meet breathtaking coastal views in Co. Donegal.
The One&One
7.5 km
Discover The One&One in Ardara - where delectable fish and chips meet authentic Irish charm amidst breathtaking Donegal scenery.
Charlie's West End Cafe
7.7 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Charlie's West End Cafe in Drumbaran - where every meal feels like home.
Mickalene's
7.8 km
Discover the culinary delights at Mickalene's in Ardara, Co. Donegal—where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality.
The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel
7.8 km
Experience comfort and culture at The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel - your perfect getaway in scenic County Donegal.
The Courthouse Restaurant
7.9 km
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Nancy's
7.9 km
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Woodhill House
8.5 km
Discover Woodhill House: A charming hotel in Co. Donegal offering comfort, exquisite dining, and easy access to nature's wonders.
Wild Atlantic Tae
13.4 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Wild Atlantic Tae in Co. Donegal - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
K-wok Carrick Chinese
13.4 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at K-wok Carrick Chinese in Co. Donegal - where delicious takeout meets affordable prices.
Hegarty's Slieve League Lodge
13.4 km
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Kelly's Kitchen (at Slieve League Lodge)
13.4 km
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Slieve League Bar
13.4 km
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Cafe Blasta
13.8 km
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Sliabh Liag Inn
13.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Triona Donegal Tweed Center
7.6 km
Experience authentic Donegal craftsmanship at Triona Donegal Tweed Center, a must-visit for lovers of traditional Irish textiles and culture.
All Kinds of Everything
7.7 km
Discover unique Irish crafts and souvenirs at All Kinds of Everything in Ardara, Co. Donegal - a treasure trove for every traveler.
Campbells Ardara
8.0 km
Discover the heart of Irish craftsmanship at Campbells Ardara, a knitwear manufacturer in the scenic village of Ardara, Co. Donegal.
Missing Piece - Irish Personalised Crafts
8.1 km
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Fisherman Out of Ireland
12.2 km
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Doherty's XL
13.4 km
Explore the flavors of Donegal at Doherty's XL, where local produce meets friendly service in a charming grocery store experience.
Ireland By Bike
13.5 km
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Irish Tweed Store
13.7 km
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Byrne's Foodstore & Filling Station
13.8 km
Discover the charm of Byrne's Foodstore & Filling Station in Glencolumbkille, a must-visit supermarket for local delights and essential supplies.
Donegal Bees
13.9 km
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Brew In Thru (Barista Coffee Vintage Van)
14.4 km
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Studio Donegal
15.2 km
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Donegal Yarns
15.3 km
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EvaVictoria.ie (McGee's Jewellery & Giftware, Killybegs)
15.4 km
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Hegarty's Centra
15.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Teagues Bar
7.7 km
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The Beehive Pub
7.8 km
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The Corner House
7.9 km
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Doherty's Bar
8.0 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at Doherty's Bar in Hillhead, Co. Donegal, where warm hospitality meets vibrant local music and delicious cuisine.
The Tavern - Barrett's
9.0 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at The Tavern - Barrett's, where tradition meets warmth in the scenic Kilclooney Beg, County Donegal.
O'Donnells Bar
9.3 km
Embrace the spirit of Ireland at O'Donnells Bar in County Donegal - a cozy haven for local brews, live music, and unforgettable moments.
Evelyn's Central Bar
13.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Evelyn's Central Bar in Carrick, Co. Donegal, where local drinks and live music create an inviting atmosphere.
Roartys Bar & Accomodation
13.8 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Roartys Bar & Accommodation in Glencolumbkille, your ideal spot for local brews and hearty meals.
John Eoinín's
13.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at John Eoinín's in Glencolumbkille, Donegal, where local brews and stunning views await.
John Joe's Bar
15.1 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of John Joe's Bar in Kilcar, a lively venue for live music, local brews, and authentic Irish hospitality.
O'Garas Bar&Lounge Kilcar
15.1 km
Discover authentic Irish hospitality at O'Garas Bar & Lounge, a cozy bar in the heart of Donegal, offering local flavors and live music.
Kilcar House
15.1 km
Experience the warmth of Kilcar House, a beloved bar in County Donegal offering a taste of authentic Irish culture and hospitality.
Packie's Bar
15.1 km
Discover the heart and soul of County Donegal at Packie's Bar, where every visit feels like coming home.
Wellbrae Bar
15.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Wellbrae Bar, a cozy gem in Killybegs, Co. Donegal, perfect for unwinding with a drink.
The Galleon Bar @ The Cope House
15.4 km
Discover The Galleon Bar @ The Cope House, where local charm meets vibrant nightlife in Killybegs, Co. Donegal.
