Location
Ireland
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
June to September
About Long Strand Beach
Long Strand is a long, open Atlantic beach in West Cork, west of Clonakilty Bay between the holiday village of Owenahincha and the Galley Head peninsula. The beach is backed by sand dunes. According to the Irish Naturist Association, naturists use both the beach and the dunes behind it, without any separate marked section. The Association stresses discretion, especially at weekends, when local families and surfers use the strand. It is one of a cluster of West Cork spots favoured by naturists, alongside the small coves around Clonakilty Bay such as Duneen and Sands Cove, and Prison Cove further west near Glandore. There are no facilities along the strand itself; Owenahincha has a hotel and caravan park at the eastern end.
Getting there
From Clonakilty follow the N71 toward Skibbereen for about six miles and turn left at the signpost for Owenahincha, then follow signs for Long Strand. Go past the hotel and caravan park and continue along the coast road; the beach comes into view from the top of the hill. Parking arrangements and charges were not confirmed in the sources found; expect soft sand on the dune paths.
Amenities
Legal context
There is no official naturist designation in County Cork; the Irish Naturist Association has asked for signage at West Cork beaches used by naturists (2020). The Association lists Long Strand but asks for discretion, especially at weekends.
Naturism at Long Strand Beach sits under Ireland's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: Ireland public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 51.5503, -8.9549
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Ireland
Frequently asked questions
Is Long Strand a nude beach?
It is an unofficial naturist location listed by the Irish Naturist Association. There is no signage, and textile visitors share the beach.
Where on the beach do naturists go?
Naturists use the beach and the dunes behind it; pick a spot away from others, especially on weekends.
How do I get there?
From Clonakilty take the N71 toward Skibbereen, turn for Owenahincha and follow the Long Strand signs along the coast road.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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