Playdays

Barley Cove

Beach & coast Cork

Checked July 2026

Barley Cove Beach is a south facing sandy beach backing onto extensive sand dunes. It is located in Barley Cove Bay which provides some shelter to the beach and there is an extensive sand dune to the rear of the beach. There is a large tidal lagoon (Lissagriffin Lake) to the rear of the beach. The beach is used to some extent by anglers, walkers, surfers and windsurfers. Barley Cove is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2024 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2021 to 2024. Barley Cove has achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating for the four consecutive years 2021 to 2024. Annual water quality ratings are generally calculated using monitoring results over a four-year period and are assessed against stringent bacterial limits to protect bather health. Lifeguard: Yes Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on this beach between 10.30 a.m. & 7.00 p.m. during the bathing season which runs from 1st June to 15th September.

Good to know

Indoor / outdoorOutdoor
CostFree admission
What's thereSwimming Spot (Sea/Lake/River)
AmenitiesCar Parking, Toilets
AccessibilityAccessible Entry Points
Data from Get Ireland Active — Sport Ireland 2023, CC BY 4.0
Nearby essentials

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Car park
Toilets
Buggy-friendly
Café on site
Dog friendly
EV charging
Baby change facilities
Picnic area