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Discover Wexford’s best beaches this summer
Looking for the best beaches in Wexford? With a coastline stretching over 250km and located in Ireland’s sunny southeast, Wexford is home to some of the country’s most beautiful Blue Flag beaches, with long sandy stretches, safe swimming spots, and scenic coastal views.
You’ll find wide sandy strands, sheltered swimming spots and peaceful coastal walks, with seaside villages, nature reserves and historic landmarks never far away. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a relaxing coastal walk, or a summer getaway, Wexford’s coastline offers something for everyone.
From much-loved favourites such as Curracloe Beach and Rosslare Strand to quieter corners of the Hook Peninsula, here are seven of the best beaches in Wexford to explore in 2026. Beach conditions, lifeguard cover, vehicle access and dog restrictions can change throughout the year. Always check local signage and current safety information before entering the water.
1. Curracloe Beach
Curracloe Beach is known for its soft golden sand, rolling dunes, and wide-open views. Located around eight kilometres north of Wexford Town, it is an easy place to spend anything from a quiet morning walk to a full family day beside the sea.
Film fans may recognise Curracloe from Saving Private Ryan and Brooklyn, but the beach’s real appeal is its natural beauty. With plenty of room to walk, paddle, swim or simply settle into the sand, it is easy to see why Curracloe remains one of the most popular beaches in Wexford.
The new Curracloe Beach Facilities, developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Wexford County Council, make it even easier to enjoy a day by the water. Open year-round, the fully accessible facility includes hot showers, changing rooms, toilets, secure lockers, outdoor showers and a registered Changing Places facility. It has been designed with swimmers, surfers, kayakers and paddleboarders in mind.
The nearby Raven Nature Reserve offers another way to explore, with woodland and coastal trails running alongside the beach.
- Best for: Families, swimming, long walks
- Facilities: Car parking, toilets, seasonal lifeguards, changing rooms, secure lockers, boardwalk access and a Changing Places facility
- Nearby: Raven Nature Reserve and Wexford Town
- Dog Friendly: Dogs generally allowed but must be on a lead; restricted during summer daytime hours (Blue Flag rules)
- Good to know: White Gap at Curracloe is one of Wexford’s Blue Flag beaches, recognised for its water quality, environmental management and visitor facilities.
2. Rosslare Strand
Rosslare Strand sits beside the welcoming seaside village of Rosslare, on the southern side of Wexford Harbour. Its long shoreline and easy access to village amenities make it a convenient choice for a relaxed day by the coast.
The beach has a mix of sand and stone, with wooden groynes helping to protect the coastline and create varied walking terrain. Take a stroll beside the water, enjoy a refreshing swim or continue into the village for cafés, restaurants and shops.
- Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, coastal walks
- Facilities: Nearby parking, cafés, shops, seasonal lifeguards
- Nearby: Rosslare Village and Rosslare Harbour (Rosslare Europort)
- Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed but there are seasonal restrictions (typically May–Sept), especially during peak hours.
- Good to know: A Blue Flag beach known for clean waters and seasonal lifeguards.
3. Duncannon Beach
Set in the fishing village of Duncannon on the Hook Peninsula, Duncannon Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Wexford.
Its broad sandy beach and views across the Waterford Harbour create a peaceful setting for paddling, swimming and watching boats pass. Vehicle access has traditionally been available in designated areas, although arrangements can change, so check local information when you arrive.
Just above the beach, historic Duncannon Fort adds another layer to your visit and offers a glimpse into the village’s coastal story.
- Best for: Families, easy access, scenic harbour views
- Facilities: Parking, seasonal lifeguards and vehicle access in designated areas at certain times
- Nearby: Duncannon Fort, Hook Peninsula
- Dog Friendly: Dogs allowed outside peak season / times, likely limited in summer so check local signage.
- Good to know: Calm waters and designated swimming areas make it a safe choice for children and relaxing days by the sea, and a great starting point for exploring the wider Hook Peninsula.
4. Morriscastle Beach
Morriscastle Beach offers mile after mile of sand, sea, and space. Close to Kilmuckridge village, this expansive strand is ideal for long coastal walks or quieter family days beside the water.
Even during the busier summer months, the beach’s open shoreline means it rarely feels crowded. A wooden boardwalk leads from the car park to the sand, providing easier access for families with buggies and visitors with limited mobility.
Pack a picnic, take off your shoes, and enjoy the feeling of having plenty of coastline ahead of you.
- Best for: Quiet beach walks, families, swimming
- Facilities: Parking, boardwalk access, seasonal lifeguards
- Nearby: Kilmuckridge Village
- Dog Friendly: Seasonal restrictions (typically May–Sept), especially during peak hours.
- Good to know: Morriscastle is a Blue Flag beach, with a long, open shoreline and plenty of space to find your own peaceful spot.
5. Ballymoney Beach
Ballymoney Beach is a scenic and family-friendly beach in Wexford that offers two beaches to discover: the North and South strands.
Each has its own character, allowing you to choose between longer sandy stretches on the North strand while the South strand is a smaller beach with a mix of sand and stones – a great option for families with younger children, providing a more contained and manageable space to relax and play.
The calm atmosphere makes Ballymoney a lovely place for paddling, walking or simply slowing down beside the sea. Stay into the evening and you may be treated to a beautiful coastal sunset.
Wildlife is also part of the experience here. Keep watch from a respectful distance, as seals are sometimes spotted along this part of the Wexford coast.
- Best for: Families, peaceful beach walks, wildlife spotting
- Facilities: Parking nearby, access to both north and south beaches
- Nearby: Courtown, Gorey
- Dog Friendly: Seasonal or time-based restrictions may apply; check local signage
- Good to know: Ballymoney is one of Wexford’s Blue Flag beaches, offering visitors two adjoining stretches of coastline to explore.
6. Carne Beach
Carne Beach is a spacious sandy strand on Wexford’s south-east coast, offering plenty of room for swimming, walking and relaxed family days beside the sea. Its open coastal setting and peaceful atmosphere make it a lovely place to slow down and enjoy the fresh sea air.
The beach is easily accessible, with parking, accessible toilet facilities and a flat concrete ramp leading towards the sand. Carne Pier is also well worth a visit, offering beautiful views across the harbour and coastline.
As one of Wexford’s Blue Flag beaches, Carne is recognised for its water quality, safety, environmental management and visitor facilities.
- Best for: Families, swimming, accessible beach visits and coastal walks
- Facilities: Parking, toilets, accessible parking, accessible toilets and ramp access to the beach
- Nearby: Carne Pier and the surrounding south-east Wexford coastline
- Dog access: Seasonal or time-based restrictions may apply; check local signage
- Good to know: Walk out towards Carne Pier for a different perspective and sweeping views across the harbour
7. Cahore Beach
Cahore Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in Wexford, known for its long stretch of sand and relaxed coastal setting. It’s an ideal choice for visitors looking to enjoy peaceful walks, with plenty of space to explore along the shoreline.
The area is popular for fishing and angling, with consistently good water quality making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The nearby pier offers a great vantage point, providing panoramic views of Cahore village and the surrounding coastline, which is perfect for photos on a clear day.
With its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Cahore Beach is a great spot to unwind and experience a quieter side of the Wexford coast.
- Best for: Scenic walks, fishing, relaxing by the sea
- Facilities: Parking, access to Cahore village
- Nearby: Cahore Pier, local harbour and village
- Dog Friendly: Widely considered dog-friendly; dogs usually allowed (under control)
- Good to know: Walk out towards the pier for sweeping views of the village and coastline.
Why Visit Beaches in Wexford
Wexford is one of Ireland’s top coastal destinations, known for its sunny climate, Blue Flag beaches, and family friendly seaside towns. The coastline offers a mix of long sandy beaches, sheltered coves, and scenic walking routes, making it ideal for day trips and longer stays.
Families can enjoy spacious strands and nearby amenities, while walkers will find miles of shoreline to explore. For swimmers, many beaches have seasonal lifeguard cover and designated bathing areas during the summer.
Whether you are travelling with children, planning an active coastal break or looking for a quiet place to clear your head, Wexford offers a different seaside story at every turn.
Plan Your Beach Trip to Wexford
Planning a trip to Wexford? From family breaks to relaxing coastal escapes, the county offers a wide range of accommodation, dining, and activities and its stunning beaches. Use VisitWexford.ie to plan your stay and discover even more things to do along the coastline.
So what are you waiting for?
Grab your towel, pack a picnic and head to one or all of Wexford’s beautiful beaches this year!
Start your adventure at VisitWexford.ie
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beaches in Wexford?
Some of the best beaches in Wexford include Curracloe Beach, Rosslare Strand, Duncannon Beach, Morriscastle Beach, Ballymoney Beach, Dollar Bay, and Cahore Beach. With over 250km of coastline, Wexford has a plentiful choice of beaches that offer a mix of family-friendly facilities, scenic views, and excellent swimming conditions.
Which beaches in Wexford have Blue Flag status?
Several beaches in Wexford have Blue Flag status, including Curracloe Beach (White Gap), Carne, Ballinesker, Morriscastle and Ballymoney Beach. This means they meet high standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Are Wexford beaches good for families?
Yes, many Wexford beaches are ideal for families. Beaches like Curracloe and Duncannon offer shallow waters, lifeguards during summer, and easy access, making them safe and convenient for children.
Can you swim at Wexford beaches?
Yes, swimming is popular at many Wexford beaches, particularly during the summer months when lifeguards are present. Always swim in designated areas and follow local safety guidance.
Wexford’s Identified Bathing Water beaches are Ballinesker, Ballymoney North, Courtown North, Curracloe, Duncannon, Morriscastle and Rosslare Strand.
Are dogs allowed on Wexford beaches?
Dogs are allowed on many Wexford beaches, but restrictions often apply during peak summer months, especially on Blue Flag beaches. Outside these times, most beaches are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept under control.