Trá an Ghleanna Bhig

Trá an Ghleanna Bhig (Derrynane Beach) in Kerry - sheltered sandy cove with turquoise waters, perfect for families. Swimming, walking, snorkeling available.

Things to Do

Beach Information

Facilities & Amenities

⚠️ Safety Information

Discover Trá an Ghleanna Bhig

Looking for beaches near me in Kerry? Trá an Ghleanna Bhig, also known as Derrynane Beach, offers one of Ireland's most scenic sandy coastlines. This sheltered cove provides a jaw-droppingly beautiful bay experience that feels tropical without leaving Ireland. The beach attracts visitors seeking the best beaches Ireland has to offer, combining crystal-clear waters with soft golden sand.

Location & Access

Finding this beach in Kerry requires travelling along the Ring of Kerry route to the Derrynane area. Getting directions to Trá an Ghleanna Bhig brings you to a rural coastal location where parking becomes challenging during peak times. Spaces fill rapidly on sunny days, with some reserved for nearby businesses. Roadside parking may be necessary, but avoid blocking paths and cycle routes.

Beach Characteristics

Trá an Ghleanna Bhig beach features soft, light-coloured sand that appears almost white to golden depending on sunlight conditions. This small sandy beach forms a natural cove, creating an intimate and sheltered environment. The scenic beaches Kerry is famous for include this gem, where the sand provides ample space for relaxation and beach games.

Swimming & Water Quality

Swimming Kerry enthusiasts will find good water quality conditions at this location. The sheltered cove offers calm waters perfect for safe swimming, particularly in the shallow areas. While Trá an Ghleanna Bhig tide times affect water depth, the protected bay environment makes it suitable for swimming when conditions are settled, though water temperatures remain refreshingly cool year-round.

Surrounding Landscape

The scenic beaches around this area showcase Kerry's rural coastal beauty at its finest. Beautiful beaches Ireland is renowned for include this stunning example, set within a landscape of rocky hills and wild green scenery. The high scenic quality comes from turquoise, crystal-clear waters framed by natural rock formations and rolling countryside that creates an almost Mediterranean atmosphere.

Activities & Things To Do

Beach activities here include swimming in the calm shallow areas and extensive walking along the sandy shoreline. Coastal walks Kerry offers include exploring the rockier edges of this cove where visitors search for shells and marine life. Snorkeling becomes possible in clearer water patches when conditions are settled, making this an ideal spot for multiple water-based activities.

Family & Kids

Family beaches Kerry parents recommend include this location due to its shallow paddling areas perfect for younger children. The sheltered bay environment feels safer than exposed Atlantic beaches, while kid friendly beaches Ireland families seek often feature this type of protected cove setting. Extensive sand provides space for games and running around, though no lifeguards are present so supervision remains essential.

Facilities & Amenities

Seasonal toilet facilities may be available through the nearby campsite rather than directly on the beach itself. No shower facilities or confirmed changing areas exist at the beach location. Litter bins and recycling facilities are not confirmed, so visitors should plan to take rubbish with them. There is no beach umbrella or beach chair rental on-site, so bring your own. Pack a beach bag with essentials: beach towel, beach shelter for windy days, beach accessories like suncream.

Dog Policy

The dog friendly beach policy for this location remains unclear from available information. Dogs allowed beach access is not specifically confirmed or restricted at Trá an Ghleanna Bhig. Visitors bringing pets should check locally for current regulations, as many Kerry beaches have seasonal restrictions during peak bathing periods. Dog owners should always clean up after their pets and keep them under control around other beach users.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible beach facilities are not confirmed at this location. Accessible beaches Ireland seekers should note that specific wheelchair access details are not available for Trá an Ghleanna Bhig. The sandy surface and potential distance from parking areas may present challenges for mobility equipment. Visitors with accessibility requirements should contact local tourist information for current access conditions and alternative nearby options.

Weather & Best Time To Visit

Trá an Ghleanna Bhig weather conditions are best experienced during calm, sunny periods when the water displays its tropical-like colours. The best time to visit is early in the day for easier parking and optimal lighting conditions. Trá an Ghleanna Bhig tide times affect the shallow paddling areas, while settled weather conditions are essential for the full scenic impact and snorkeling opportunities.

Nearby Services

A beach bar with pub atmosphere operates nearby, providing food options and refreshment facilities. The beach cafe and dining services are part of holiday-style facilities that include campsite amenities in the immediate area. However, shops near beach are limited, so visitors shouldn't rely on one specific restaurant being open and should bring backup snacks since alternatives can be located far away from this rural location.

What To Wear & Bring

For a day at Trá an Ghleanna Bhig, pack these beach essentials: beach towel, beach dresses or beach cover up, beach shoes, beach bag. Consider beach umbrella or pop up beach tent for shade, beach chair for comfort. Given the rural location and limited facilities, bring extra snacks and drinks as backup options, plus warm layers since water temperatures remain cool even on sunny days.

Photography & Scenery

Beach sunset photography opportunities may be limited depending on the cove's western exposure, but the scenic beaches offer exceptional daytime shots. The turquoise waters and golden sand create natural beach wallpaper worthy scenes, particularly during sunny conditions when colours are most vibrant. High scenic quality makes this location ideal for capturing Ireland's coastal beauty, with rocky hill backdrops providing dramatic composition elements.

Nearby Accommodation

Holiday homes ireland near beach options include the immediate campsite and caravan facilities available in the area. Cottages to rent ireland beach seekers will find this location offers convenient accommodation right beside the shore. The nearby facilities cater to various accommodation needs, from camping to static caravan rentals, making it easy to stay close to this beautiful Kerry coastline for extended beach holidays.

Additional Nearby Information

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