Location
Ireland
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Best season
June to September
About Simon's Cove Bay Beach
Simon's Cove is a small, reef-sheltered cove on the headland on the east side of Clonakilty Bay in West Cork, beyond the village of Ring and toward South Ring. The Irish Naturist Association lists the cove as a naturist location. It is reached by a signposted small lane off the hilly coast road, leading down to the sea, and the reef across its mouth breaks the Atlantic swell, giving calmer water than the open coast. The trade-off is seaweed: the INA warns that the cove can be thick with stringy weed, so conditions vary with the season and recent weather. There are no facilities; Clonakilty, a few kilometres away, has shops, pubs and food. Nearby alternatives used by naturists include Duneen on the other side of Clonakilty Bay and the Long Strand west of the bay.
Getting there
From Clonakilty, take the road toward Ring and continue along the hilly coast road past the village; follow the signpost for Simon's Cove, then the small lane down to the sea. Parking is very limited at the end of the lane. No public transport; not wheelchair accessible.
Amenities
Legal context
Ireland has no designated naturist beaches, and public nudity can in principle be treated as an offence; in practice discreet nude bathing at quiet spots is tolerated. Simon's Cove is not designated or signed for naturism.
Naturism at Simon's Cove Bay 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. 51.5941, -8.8239
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 Simon's Cove a nude beach?
It is an unofficial naturist location listed by the Irish Naturist Association, not a designated beach.
How do I get there?
Follow the coast road past Ring village near Clonakilty and take the signposted lane to Simon's Cove.
Is the water clean?
The cove is sheltered by a reef but can be thick with stringy seaweed at times.
Is it safe to swim?
The Irish Naturist Association warns that remote spots can have currents and rip tides that are not obvious; do not swim alone and check water safety guidance.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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