A Blue Flag strand where Ballyheigue village meets the sand at the foot of Kerry Head, looking out across Tralee Bay. Part of a 10km dune-backed stretch of coast, it is a long, easy-going family beach with real village amenities behind it.
The sandy beach runs over 3km from the village towards the outlet from Lough Akeragh, backed by dunes and forming part of a 10km stretch of coast that links Banna Strand and Barrow Harbour. It is ideal for a long, flat coastal walk.
The exposed Atlantic position makes this a popular spot for surfing, windsurfing and kite-surfing. Bring a wetsuit if you plan to be in the water outside the summer months.
The bay holds the Blue Flag award for quality and is lifeguarded during the bathing season. Swim between the flags when lifeguards are on duty and check the notice board on the beach first.
A children's playground sits just across the road from the car park, and the village's shops, cafés, restaurant and pub are a short walk from the sand, which makes Ballyheigue an easy family day out.
Ballyheigue is known for colourful sunsets over Tralee Bay. Early mornings are the quietest time for photography and peaceful walks along the water's edge.
From the shore there are views out over Tralee Bay and the mountainous Dingle Peninsula, and the dune-backed wetlands behind the beach are noted as one of Europe's best sites for migrant American waterfowl.
Kerry Head rises to the north behind the village, and Ballyheigue Castle Golf Club sits just north of the beach, handy for a round before or after time on the sand.
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