A tiny, secluded pebble beach tucked into the rugged Wicklow coastline, reached via one of Ireland's most rewarding cliff walks — and a regular haul-out for grey seals.
The 1781 octagonal Old Wicklow Head Lighthouse marks the turning point of the walk. Though the grounds are private (the lighthouse is now holiday accommodation via the Irish Landmark Trust), you can admire it from the path and soak in panoramic sea views.
The beach has clear turquoise water that's irresistible on a sunny day. It's a pebble beach with a moderate depth drop-off, so water shoes are recommended. No lifeguard is on duty — swim at your own risk. The beach may be closed during seal pupping season (approx. August to February).
A spectacular 4–5 km moderate coastal trail starting from Glen Beach car park. The narrow path hugs the cliffs past Glen Strand, the Glen Beach Rock Arch, and Trá Cille Aoil itself, before climbing towards Ceann Bhríde and on to Wicklow Head Lighthouse. Allow 1.5–2 hours. Walk in single file near cliff edges.
A pod of grey seals regularly hauls out along these coves. The best viewing spot is the Ceann Bhríde headland, which overlooks Lime Kiln Bay from a safe height. Seal pupping season runs roughly August to February — during this time beaches are closed to protect pups. Never approach seals; keep dogs leashed.
The area is part of the Wicklow Head Special Protection Area. Look for kittiwakes, fulmars, shags, guillemots, razorbills, peregrine falcons, and black guillemots along the cliffs. Stonechats, whitethroats, rock pipits and linnets frequent the scrub along the trail.
Just beyond Glen Strand, the Glen Beach Rock Arch is a striking natural rock formation carved by coastal erosion — a popular spot for photos and a quick picnic. Several smaller coves and beaches dot the coastline further along the trail.
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