top of page
Search

The Ballybunion Cliff Walk

There are walks that sharpen the senses and others that soften them; Ballybunion’s cliff path somehow manages both. Above the roar of the Atlantic, the trail heads past ancient stone, blowholes, and hidden coves. In September, when the summer rush loosens, it’s at its best.


The Cliff Walk


Ballybunion sits on County Kerry’s north coast, where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic. The cliff walk is a short, signposted loop that begins near Ballybunion Castle (the 16th-century ruin that watches over town). From there, it follows the clifftop above the town’s strands, traditionally called the Ladies’ and Men’s Beaches, before heading west toward blowholes and viewpoints over the iconic sea arch known as Virgin Rock and the secluded crescent of Nun’s Beach (best admired from above; access is typically restricted due to safety and erosion).

ree

Highlights along the way


  • Ballybunion Castle: Ruins of the town’s former tower house, used historically as a residence and coastal lookout.

  • Ladies’ & Men’s Beaches: Paired strands historically designated for men and women; today both are open to all, but the names remain.

  • Views to Virgin Rock & Nun’s Beach: Lookouts to Virgin Rock (a natural sea arch) and Nun’s Beach (a small cove beneath the cliffs) - access to the cove is typically restricted for safety.

  • Birdlife: Regular sightings include kittiwake, fulmar, gannet. The cliffs provide nesting/roosting habitat, with seasonal passage in early autumn.


Distance & time: Allow 45–75 minutes for the main loop, longer if you’re a stop-and-stare type (you will be). Paths are generally obvious but keep well back from edges in windy weather, and wear proper footwear, autumn grass can be slick after rain.


A September wander


We recommend going for golden hour, and building your day around the tide. Clifftop views are unaffected, but if you want to go barefoot on the main beach after your loop, a falling tide is best. Check the forecast first at met.ie.


Make sure to pack windproof layers as early autumn can be a bit gusty, and definitely mind the margins - the signage and fences are there for a reason. The hike is dog-friendly, but make sure to keep your dogs on a short lead. .


Practicalities


  • Start/parking: The simplest start is beside the castle/green above the Ladies’ Beach; there’s public parking in town within a short walk of the trailhead.

  • Terrain: A mix of paved path and compacted earth. After rain, expect puddles and slick grass.

  • Facilities: Toilets and food options are in town near the beach car parks; hours can be shorter midweek in September.

  • Dogs: Welcome on-lead. Cliffs, birds, and grazing animals make for unpredictable distractions.


Make a day of it


  • Loop Head Lighthouse (Clare): Across the Shannon, but within striking distance if you combine with the Tarbert–Killimer ferry. Big skies, bigger horizons.

  • Listowel (15–20 minutes inland): Bookish, market-town charm with a castle, cafés, and shops to browse if the weather turns.

  • Surf lesson or sea dip: Ballybunion is surf-mad. If conditions are good, you’ll find reputable schools operating year-round.


September is a fabulous time to head on this walk, with fewer crowds and milder weather - head prepared but above all, enjoy the views!



Comments

bottom of page