Beaches near Roundstone
Two miles from Roundstone, on the road to Ballyconneely, are located two of the finest beaches in Ireland. Gurteen Beach and Dog’s Bay lie back to back and form a Tom Bolo jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean.

Gurteen Beach is the larger of the two and the closer to Roundstone. The water is crystal clear and it is very safe for swimming and other water based activities. It is naturally protected by the headland which it faces to the south and it is a popular destination for holiday makers in the summertime. Gurteen Bay Caravan Park and shop are located adjacent to the beach and are open from March until October.

CLICK HERE FOR A VIRTUAL TOUR OF GURTEEN BAY (This opens in a new browser window)

Dog’s Bay (or Port na Fadoige in Irish meaning Bay of Plovers) faces due west. It is famous for its Foraminiferal Sands which are made of millions of microscopic shells. It is a stunning beach with its bright white sands and crystal blue water.

Since 1991 the dunes separating Gurteen Beach from Dog’s Bay have been the focus of intensive efforts to plant Mar ram Grass to stem coastal erosion. Visitors are requested to respect the signs restricting access to the dunes. The wild headland which stretches out into the Atlantic between the two beaches is an area of great beauty and is a fantastic walk where you will be surrounded by water on three sides.