- Curracloe Beach: One of Ireland’s longest beaches, Curracloe is a Blue Flag beach with 10km of fine golden sand, backed by extensive dunes in the Raven Nature Reserve. Famous as a filming location for Saving Private Ryan, it’s a top spot for wild swimming. Vast sandy beach, rolling dunes, and views across Wexford Bay. Off the R742, 11km from Wexford town. Ample parking near the beach. Gentle slopes and shallow waters suit beginners and families, with deeper areas for confident swimmers. Waves are moderate, ideal for long swims. Parking, toilets, showers, and lifeguards in summer. Nearby Curracloe village has cafes and pubs. Excellent water quality (Wexford County Council, 2020). Watch for occasional rip currents, especially in windy conditions. Explore the Raven Nature Reserve trails or enjoy a post-swim meal in Wexford town.
- Rosslare Strand: A Blue Flag beach in the bustling resort village of Rosslare, this sandy stretch offers clear waters and a gentle slope, making it a family-friendly spot for wild swimming. Its sheltered position ensures calmer conditions. Wide sandy beach with views of the Irish Sea and distant Tuskar Rock lighthouse. Off the N25, 15km from Wexford town. Parking near the beach; accessible by train or ferry from Rosslare Harbour. Shallow, calm waters suit beginners, with deeper sections for stronger swimmers. Ideal for relaxed dips and paddling. Parking, toilets, lifeguards in summer, and nearby cafes, pubs, and hotels in Rosslare. Excellent water quality, with minimal currents due to the bay’s shelter. Visit Kelly’s Resort Hotel for spa facilities or stroll the coastal path.
- Kilmore Quay: A picturesque fishing village on the south coast, Kilmore Quay features a small, sandy beach and clear waters near the harbour, ideal for wild swimming. The nearby Saltee Islands add to its scenic charm. Charming harbour, sandy cove, and views toward the Saltee Islands. Off the R739, 22km from Wexford town. Parking near the harbour or beach. Sheltered waters suit all levels, with shallow areas for beginners. Good for snorkeling around rocky edges. Parking, toilets, and nearby seafood restaurants (e.g., Mary Barry’s). No lifeguards. Good water quality, but check tides, as currents can strengthen near the harbour. Take a boat trip to the Saltee Islands or enjoy fresh fish and chips post-swim.
- Cullenstown Beach: A quieter, sandy beach near Duncormick, Cullenstown is a hidden gem on Wexford’s south coast. Its unspoiled setting and clear waters make it a peaceful spot for wild swimming. Long sandy stretch with dunes and views of the Irish Sea. Off the R736, 25km from Wexford town. Limited parking; a short walk to the beach. Gentle waves and shallow waters suit beginners, with deeper areas for confident swimmers. Ideal for tranquil swims. Minimal; bring supplies. Nearby Duncormick has a pub. No lifeguards. Good water quality, but check tides and avoid swimming alone due to the remote location. Pair with a visit to nearby Bannow Bay for birdwatching or coastal walks.
- Carne Beach: A Blue Flag beach near the village of Carne, this sandy and shingle beach is sheltered by Carnsore Point, offering clear waters and a relaxed setting for wild swimming. Sandy beach with shingle patches, backed by dunes and views of the Irish Sea. Off the R739, 20km from Rosslare. Parking near the beach. Calm, shallow waters suit beginners and families, with deeper areas for stronger swimmers. Good for snorkeling. Parking, toilets, and lifeguards in summer. Carne has basic amenities; nearby Rosslare offers dining. Excellent water quality, with minimal currents due to sheltering point. Explore Carnsore Point or visit Our Lady’s Island for a pilgrimage site.
- Blue Flag Beaches: Curracloe, Rosslare Strand, and Carne hold Blue Flag status, ensuring excellent water quality and safety standards.
Wexford’s Irish Sea coast has cold waters (10–15°C) and occasional currents, particularly at open beaches like Curracloe. Check tide times (e.g., Tides Near Me app), weather, and water quality reports (Wexford County Council). Swim with a buddy, use a tow float for visibility, and avoid isolated swims without local knowledge. Bring water shoes for shingle areas (e.g., Kilmore Quay, Carne), a wetsuit for warmth, and a changing robe. Snorkeling gear is useful for Kilmore Quay and Carne.
Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect Wexford’s ecosystems, especially at Curracloe’s Raven Nature Reserve and dune-backed beaches. Avoid littering and stick to paths to preserve wildlife. Amenities vary, Curracloe, Rosslare, and Carne have good facilities; Cullenstown and Kilmore Quay are more remote. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Wexford town, Rosslare, and Kilmore Quay offer excellent dining, including seafood.
Rosslare, Carne, and Kilmore Quay are beginner-friendly due to calm, shallow waters. Curracloe and Cullenstown suit all levels but require caution for currents in rough weather.
County Wexford:
Ireland’s county Wexford combines coastal beauty with historic sites, with the Hook Lighthouse, one of the world’s oldest, offering scenic coastal views. The Irish National Heritage Park recreates ancient and medieval settlements, while Wexford’s beaches, like Curracloe, provide sandy shores for walking. Other attractions include the historic town of Enniscorthy and its castle. Wexford is Ireland’s 13th largest county by size (2,351 square km) and 14th largest by population (163,919). Population peaked at 202,033 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 83,308 in 1961. In terms of hospitality, Wexford is Ireland’s eighth most visited tourist county with around 229,000 international visitors per year.
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