The Pollock Holes

The Pollock Holes are a set of natural sea pools on the West End of Kilkee, County Clare, formed where the Atlantic has worn down the flat limestone of the Duggerna Reef. As the tide ebbs it uncovers a broad rock plateau and, with it, three main pools of clear seawater that are refreshed with every tide. They take their name from the small pollock fish that shelter among the rocks for part of the year.

The pools are a long-established bathing spot, with locals swimming here through much of the year, and the sheltered water also draws snorkellers. The main pools vary in size and depth, and the surrounding reef is part of the wider coastline followed by the Wild Atlantic Way. The rock itself is very old: the reef preserves the record of a late Carboniferous river delta, laid down here some 320 million years ago.

The reef carries a bit of local history too. In times past the pools were used along informal lines, with the outermost pool, known as the third Pollock Hole, traditionally kept for men bathers.

Anyone planning to swim or walk out across the reef should check the tide times first, as the pools and flagstones are completely covered by the sea at high tide. The flat rocks can also be slippery when wet, so care is needed underfoot. To reach the Pollock Holes, head for the West End of Kilkee and follow the signs for the Diamond Rocks Cafe, where the road ends at a car park beside the reef.