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Beach · Kilronan, Galway
Kilmurvey Beach
A light-sand beach in a sheltered cove on the north coast of Inis Mór, at the foot of the climb to Dún Aonghasa, with clear water and views over Galway Bay and Connemara.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kilmurvey Beach
Kilmurvey Beach, in Irish Trá Chill Mhuirbhigh, lies in a sheltered cove on the north coast of Inis Mór, near the village of Kilmurvey and the entrance to Dún Aonghasa. It is the island's best-known beach, with pale sand, clear water and a gently sloping seabed, sheltered from westerly winds by dunes and rocks.
From the sand you can see Galway Bay and, on the far side, the coast of Connemara with its mountains. The water is cold even in summer, typically between 13 and 16 °C, but locals and visitors swim on the warmest days, from June to September.
The village of Kilmurvey, just above the beach, has guesthouses, a café, Aran knitwear shops and the Dún Aonghasa visitor centre. Nearby is also Teampall Mac Duach, the ruin of a small medieval church.
The beach is a good place to rest after climbing to the fort and to wait for the minibus or carriage back to Kilronan.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour, or the whole afternoon on a sunny day.
Best time
On sunny days from June to September, in the mid-afternoon, after visiting Dún Aonghasa. The cove is usually sheltered from the west wind.
How to get there
It is in Kilmurvey, about 7 km west of Kilronan, beside the Dún Aonghasa visitor centre. By bicycle, minibus or carriage.
Tip
Leave the beach for after the fort, to rest. Bring a towel and swimwear if you want to enter the sea, even knowing the water is cold.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kilmurvey Beach
Can you swim at Kilmurvey?
Yes, on the warmest days from June to September, but the water is cold, generally between 13 and 16 °C.
Is the beach near Dún Aonghasa?
Yes, next to the visitor center, from where the trail to the fort starts.
Are there services near the beach?
The village of Kilmurvey has a café, shops and guesthouses just above the beach.