A remote, crescent-shaped Atlantic bay on the Skellig Ring where the Skellig Islands fill the horizon and the surf pounds in. Come for the views, the walks and the chocolate — not for a swim.
The bay, known locally as The Glen, runs from Puffin Island in the north to Ducalla Head in the south, with the Skellig Rocks and Lemon Rock sitting offshore. Come for the panorama rather than a paddle: this is the smallest beach on the ring and swimming is discouraged.
St Finian's Bay catches consistent Atlantic swell and throws up fast, hollow waves that draw experienced surfers. The same swell and strong rips make it unsuitable for beginners and bathers; check the tide and forecast first.
The bay's pier is a popular launch point for divers exploring the waters and underwater cliffs around the Skellig Rocks. It is remote shore diving with currents and occasional fishing traffic, so a surface marker buoy is standard practice.
Skelligs Chocolate, Ireland's only open-plan chocolate factory, sits a short walk from the beach. Watch the chocolate being made, taste your way along the counter and book a chocolate-making course; the Driftwood surf café is at the bay itself.
Park at the beach and follow signposted walks south towards Ducalla, north towards Glenaragh or east to Killabuonia. The surrounding fields hold Bronze Age remains, souterrains, holy wells and the medieval church at Keel.
The bay lies about halfway around the Skellig Ring, roughly 7 km west of Ballinskelligs between Portmagee and Ballinskelligs. The drive in over Coomanaspig Pass, with the Kerry Cliffs nearby, is half the pleasure.
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