The Aran Islands are known for their beautiful sandy beaches, wild coastline and crystal clear waters.
For those looking for a quiet getaway, the islands have miles of unspoiled beaches that provide some of the most peaceful spots around to soak up some rays and take in the tranquil landscapes.
Beaches on Inishmore
Inishmore is home to some fantastic beaches. Kilmurvy Beach is the only blue flag beach on the Inishmore but there are many more beautiful beaches on the island including some hidden gems.
Kilronan Beach
Kilronan Beach is located beside Aran Bike Hire in the main village of Kilronan. There are public toilets adjacent to the beach. Once your souvenir shopping is done, Kilronan Beach is a great place to relax before taking the ferry back to the mainland.
Frenchman’s Beach
Frenchman’s Beach is a beautiful beach located in front of Aran Camping & Glamping. This beach is a fantastic location for snorkeling and SCUBA diving. The local SCUBA diving company, Dive Academy can often be seen diving and snorkeling in the area. Frenchman’s Beach is great for beachcombing and has lots of rockpools for kids to find, crabs, starfish and various other marine life.
Kelly’s Beach
Kelly’s Beach is located in Kilronan, it is another great beach for beachcombing. In the early Summer swimming lessons are held at this beach.
Kilmurvy Beach
Kilmurvy beach is the only blue flag beach on Inishmore, it offers stunning views across Galway Bay as well as rock pools perfect for little explorers to discover marine life. There are toilet facilities at Kilmurvy beach and during summer months there is a lifeguard on duty. Kilmurvy Beach is located near Dun Aonghasa base and is a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic after hiking up to the fort.
Hidden Gem #1 – Tra Mor
Tra Mor is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Inishmore. Tra Mor is located in Iaraine, the Easternmost village on Inishmore. It is accessed by going to the end of the paved road in Iaraine, and then walking North through the sand dunes until you reach the beach. Tra Mor has large sand dunes, a beautiful beach, crystal clear waters and quite often nobody else on it.
Hidden Gem #2 – mBhuailte
The mBhuailte beach is located off the low road in Kilronan. The beach is close to the shops and pubs in the main village however, due to its hidden location it is not a very popular beach. More often than not, you can have the whole beach to yourself. It is a great place to relax and find peace and quiet while looking across on the beautiful mountains in Connemara.
Beaches on Inishmaan
There’s one beach on Inishmaan called “Ceann Gainimh” or “Sandhead” in English. However, due to the strong ocean currents it is advised not to swim here.
Beach on Inisheer
There’s one blue flag beach on Inisheer located beside the ferry terminal. In the Summer months there is a lifeguard on duty. This beach is very popular in the summer as tourists like to relax here after exploring the island. This beach is a great place to wait for your ferry back to the mainland as its very close to the pier.