Carrickfinn

About this spot

Carrickfinn is an extensive sandy beach with a good dune system. The beach is situated in Gweedore Bay which is a Natural Heritage Area that supports many varied coastal habitats and a wide variety of plant species and wildlife. The beach is exposed at times during the tidal phase during the day.

Facilities & access

Lifeguard

Yes

Parking

Yes

Toilets

Yes

Accessible entry

No

Dogs

YesDogs are not permitted in the Blue Flag Area of the beach from 12 pm to 7 pm (1st June to 15th September annually).Dogs are permitted on leads outside the Blue Flag Area at all times.

Public transport

No

Official water quality

Classified Excellent in 2025.

Carrickfinn is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Carrickfinn has achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating for the four consecutive years 2022 to 2025. Annual water quality ratings are generally calculated using monitoring results over a four-year period and are assessed against stringent bacterial limits to protect bather health.

Common questions

Can you swim at Carrickfinn right now?

Carrickfinn is currently marked "Good to go". No current pollution alerts — always assess conditions yourself. This reflects the latest data published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland). Conditions change quickly — always assess the water yourself before entering.

What is the water quality like at Carrickfinn?

the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) classified Carrickfinn as Excellent in 2025. Classifications are a rolling assessment of bacterial samples taken over four bathing seasons, measured against E. coli and intestinal enterococci limits set by the EU Bathing Water Directive.

Is there a swimming ban or warning at Carrickfinn?

There are no active bathing restrictions published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) for Carrickfinn. That is not a guarantee of safety — assess conditions yourself.

Is there a lifeguard at Carrickfinn?

Yes — Carrickfinn has lifeguard cover. Cover is seasonal; check locally before relying on it.

What facilities are there at Carrickfinn?

Carrickfinn has toilets, parking. Facility information is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland).