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There's no lack of stunning beaches in Cork. Bordered by wild, windy coves with plunging cliffs and meadow-tipped hills, the landscapes are so ruggedly gorgeous that it's easy to forget you're close to Ireland's second-largest city.

Flaunting several of the beaches, the southwestern shore is also the sunniest side of Ireland, causing fairer weather and minor drizzle. From sandy bays perfect for swimming to remote coves created exploring, right here's our guide to the very best beaches in Cork.

6. Crookhaven Beach

Cork's coastal path serpents from Kinsale to Clonakilty, all the way down to Baltimore. Some beaches are situated a shell's toss from the city centre, while others are blissfully private, reached just by auto or sea. On the edge of west Cork, the concealed cove of Crookhaven isn't easily accessible. However, that's precisely why it's so lovely. A sandy bay lapped by the clear Atlantic Sea. An Eco-friendly Shore Award, a national prize for the best-preserved beaches in Ireland.

5. Garryvoe Beach

Conveniently the most famous coastline in Region Cork, Garryvoe claims Blue Flag condition, suggesting beautiful beach and unblemished nature. A rough mix of roof shingles and rock, Garryvoe is great for households-- it has a lifeguard, as well as drinks, are available at the Garryvoe Hotel just off the coastline. Garryvoe rests on the R632, a brief drive away from Shanagarry.

4. The Warren Beach, Rosscarbery

Fringed by dunes and hills of amber tussock, the Warren is a beautiful Blue Flag beach situated in an All-natural Heritage Area. This sandy stretch of coastline with excellent facilities, including an adorable little café, also has a lifeguard in the summer, making it optimal for households and youngsters. The beach is reached by vehicle, a 15-minute drive from Clonakilty.

3. Inchydoney Beach (Clonakilty)

A preferred place for searching, Inchydoney Coastline is situated on an island of the same name, a couple of miles away from Clonakilty. Stunningly gorgeous, with a lengthy crescent-shaped bay flanked by dune, this Blue Flag coastline is family-friendly as well as outstanding for watersports. There are several amenities nearby.

2. Garrylucas Beach, Kinsale

Garrylucas equates as "white strand" in Celtic, and this beach measures up to its name. Situated near the Old Head of Kinsale, this is a prime spot for searching and watersports. The sand is clean, with the uniformity of granulated sugar-- and the water is clear. However, if you're not feeling adventurous, it's also a fantastic place for swimming, paddling as well as sunbathing.

1. Shelly Beach, Mizen Head

A charming covert cove nestled in the coastal cliffs of West Cork, Shelly Beach is the place to live out your Robinson Crusoe fantasy. Made up of white coverings and plentiful sand, this is a truly remote area-- be prepared to endeavour over fields and nation lanes to get here. Found a couple of miles east of Mizen Head, you'll require an auto to reach it.

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