Maharees community transforms tourism offering

The Maharees community formed the Conservation Association in 2016.
Volunteers planted marram grass to stabilise dunes after storms.
Initiatives include soundwalks and heritage trails.
A seasonal shuttle bus connects visitor hubs.
The tombolo supports rare wildlife including the Natterjack Toad.

The Maharees community has developed regenerative tourism initiatives on the Kerry peninsula.

The group of 368 residents formed the Maharees Conservation Association in 2016 to address coastal erosion and access issues after storms. Community volunteers planted marram grass and installed dune fencing to stabilise sand dunes and protect the access road.

They run soundwalks, heritage trails and biodiversity events that involve visitors in conservation. A seasonal shuttle bus operates through the SMART Coast Project. The area features a tombolo landscape with rare species such as the Natterjack Toad.