County Mayo (Achill Island), Ireland • Atlantic Ocean

Keem Bay

Voted Europe’s best beach by Lonely Planet, a sheltered horseshoe bay tucked inside a dramatic green glacial valley on Achill Island.

Keem Bay in County Mayo (Achill Island), Ireland

Photo: Sergio (CC BY 2.0) · Wikimedia Commons source

Local Notes & Setting

  • Key filming location for the Oscar-nominated movie 'The Banshees of Inisherin' (Colm's cottage)
  • Major coastal feeding habitat for gentle basking sharks, easily spotted from the cliff road in summer
  • Hike the clifftop trail up to the sheer 688-meter Croaghaun sea cliffs, the highest in Ireland

Water & Beach Specifications

Peak Summer Sea Temp 16.4°C (Peak Air: 19°C)
Monthly Sea Temps (May–Oct) May: 12.5°C · Jun: 14.6°C · Jul: 15.9°C · Aug: 16.4°C · Sep: 15.5°C · Oct: 13.8°C
Best Months June, July, August
Sand & Shoreline Fine White Sand • Gradual Drop
Water Clarity Turquoise (Clarity: 4.8/5 • Scenery: 4.85/5)
Daily Cost Guide €40/day (Sunbeds: €0)
Coordinates 53.9667°N, -10.1833°E

Explore complete 12-month NOAA climatology curves for this coastline in our Ireland Sea Temperature Guide →

Amenities

Watersports: Active
Naturist: Textile Only
Free Parking: Available
Bathrooms: Available
Showers: Available
Food / Tavernas: Available
Good for Kids: Safe Entry
Lifeguard: Seasonal Duty
Sunbed Rentals: None
Natural Shade: Exposed
Wheelchair Accessible: Accessible

Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway

INTL · 40m drive

Convenient highway or local transit access across County Mayo (Achill Island), Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions about Keem Bay

What is the water temperature at Keem Bay?

The peak summer sea surface temperature at Keem Bay averages 16.4°C (62°F), based on 30-year NOAA OISST satellite climatology.

What type of coast or sand is Keem Bay?

Keem Bay is classified as a fine white sand shoreline located in County Mayo (Achill Island), Ireland.

Is Keem Bay good for families with kids?

Yes, Keem Bay is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.

Are there parking and facilities at Keem Bay?

Free parking is available. Restroom facilities are present.

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