A short but spectacular cliff-top stroll linking Ballybunion's glorious Blue Flag beaches, packed with folklore, sea arches, blowholes and big Atlantic views — all on an easy, family-friendly gravel path.
An easy, waymarked loop (~1.5–3 km depending on the loop variant) on a flat gravel surface with gentle slopes. The official Sport Ireland trail is 1.5 km / 30 minutes one way; the full loop returning via Doon Road takes about an hour. Start above Ladies Beach across from the Cliff House Hotel and follow white arrows on a green background.
The most photographed landmark on the walk — a classic natural sea arch just off Nun's Beach. A second arch that once stood nearby has long since collapsed into the sea.
A dramatic blowhole formed when a sea cave broke through the surface. Legend says a local chieftain threw his nine daughters — and their beheaded Viking lovers — into it. On wild days, expect a blast of sea spray as you pass.
A deep, narrow cleft in the cliffs believed to have been used for sacrificial Celtic worship. Today it is a nesting site for starlings, rock doves and choughs — and a good spot for birdwatching.
Two Blue Flag sandy beaches bookending the walk, separated by the ruins of Ballybunion Castle. Both have lifeguards (June–August) and are excellent for swimming, surfing and family days out. Surf lessons and board hire are available on Men's Beach from Ballybunion Surf School.
Scan the water for bottlenose dolphins — the Shannon Estuary hosts Ireland's only known resident pod. On the cliffs, look out for fulmars, cormorants, ravens and choughs. In late autumn, starling murmurations are a spectacular sight at dusk.
Load the interactive map to explore this place location.
