Description
Cartystown Beach sits on Coney Island, one of Sligo’s most intriguing and atmospheric offshore islands. What makes a visit here truly memorable is the journey itself: Coney Island can only be reached by land at low tide, when the seabed becomes a natural causeway. It’s essential to be aware of the tides — arrive too late and you may find yourself enjoying the island for a few extra hours.
As a general rule, the crossing is usually safe 2–3 hours before low tide, but always check local tide times before setting out. Once you reach the island, pass the island’s only pub, Michael J. Ward’s, and take the small road to the left marked by a signpost for the beach. If you’ve come by car, it’s best to park near the pub and walk the rest of the way.
Cartystown Beach is wonderfully remote, which is exactly why it remains so peaceful. With golden sand, crystal‑clear water, and a sense of untouched beauty, it’s easy to see why it earned a place in the Irish Independent’s list of the 30 Best Beaches in Ireland. There are no lifeguards, and the beach’s isolation adds to its charm — a place where you can truly switch off.
Just don’t forget to make your way back to the mainland before the tide returns. Then again, if you do find yourself waiting it out, a few pints in Michael J. Ward’s might turn it into a story worth telling.
Beach: Fine sand and some rocks
Sports: Sea kayaking, bathing, running
Swimming: No lifeguard present
As a general rule, the crossing is usually safe 2–3 hours before low tide, but always check local tide times before setting out. Once you reach the island, pass the island’s only pub, Michael J. Ward’s, and take the small road to the left marked by a signpost for the beach. If you’ve come by car, it’s best to park near the pub and walk the rest of the way.
Cartystown Beach is wonderfully remote, which is exactly why it remains so peaceful. With golden sand, crystal‑clear water, and a sense of untouched beauty, it’s easy to see why it earned a place in the Irish Independent’s list of the 30 Best Beaches in Ireland. There are no lifeguards, and the beach’s isolation adds to its charm — a place where you can truly switch off.
Just don’t forget to make your way back to the mainland before the tide returns. Then again, if you do find yourself waiting it out, a few pints in Michael J. Ward’s might turn it into a story worth telling.
Beach: Fine sand and some rocks
Sports: Sea kayaking, bathing, running
Swimming: No lifeguard present
