White Strand Miltown Malbay

White Strand is a small sandy beach on the west coast of County Clare, lying just inland from Spanish Point between the surfing town of Lahinch and the village of Miltown Malbay. The beach sits at the head of a narrow, rock-flanked bay, backed by low dunes and rocky outcrops. Offshore reefs reduce the force of the incoming waves, which helps make the sheltered strand a calmer option than some of the busier bays nearby.

The beach holds a Blue Flag, awarded by An Taisce, the National Trust for Ireland, and its bathing water has been classified as “Excellent”. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing and beachcombing, and lifeguards patrol during the main summer season. Local amenities including shops, restaurants and toilets can be found in the area around the beach.

Visitors should note that beach bye-laws apply during the summer: dogs and horse riding are not permitted between 11:00 and 18:00 in the peak season. As with any Atlantic beach, conditions can change with the tide and weather, so it is worth checking local guidance before heading into the water.