The Coral Beach near Gleesk Pier in Sneem is a rare geological gem and one of only 2 coral beaches in Ireland, the other is near Carraroe in County Galway. 

Unlike the other beaches in Ireland which are made of sand, a coral beach is made from dried and sun-bleached algae. So while we are not suggesting this beach is made of real coral like the Great Barrier Reef it is nonetheless quite unusual for Ireland and worth a visit.

This area is part of the Kerry Geopark.

Although not strictly on the Ring of Kerry, Inch Strand - also known as Inch Beach - is a stunning stretch of golden sand that reaches over 5 km into the waters of Dingle Bay, framed by the Kerry mountains.

It’s a beloved spot for families, walkers, surfers, and anyone who simply wants to soak in the wild Atlantic beauty. It is one of the few beaches where you can drive directly onto the sand. Just be careful where you park to avoid soft sand and keep an eye on the incoming tide.

And when it’s time for food, there’s a welcoming beachside café serving fresh local seafood, homemade treats, and warm hospitality - all with stunning views of the waves rolling in.

Dooks Beach is a lovely sandy, sheltered beach just 3 miles from Glenbeigh village and 12 miles from Killorglin just off the Ring of Kerry Road. There is a very well-regarded 18-hole golf course (Dook's Links Course) adjacent to the beach and enjoying spectacular views over the Dingle Peninsula, Cromane, and Inch Beach.

Note: there is limited roadside parking (no official parking) and access to the beach is not suitable for those with limited mobility.

St. Finian's Bay is well worth a visit. It lies about halfway around the Skellig Ring which means you will have fantastic views there and back. Strictly speaking, the Skellig Ring is not really part of the official Ring of Kerry but don't let that stop you from exploring it while you are here. Travel east from Portmagee on the R567. St. Finian’s Bay is also known locally as the Glen and goes from Puffin Island in the North to Duchalla Head in the South. The Skellig Rocks and the Lemon Rock lie in St. Finian's Bay.

The beach is lovely and has great surf so perfect for the water sports enthusiast. There is also a pier which is often used by boats for diving expeditions.

After your exertions, you can reward yourself with a visit to the local Skelligs Chocolate, Yum! 

Reen Rua Beach, also known as Reen Roe and Rinroe, is a lovely stretch of coastline between Waterville and Ballinskelligs. It is the perfect place for watersports and its sandy bottom makes it ideal for beginner surfers.

It is situated just off the main road (R567) between Waterville & Ballinskelligs.

Skellig Watersports Surf School operates locally and offers surfing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Following the violent storms of January 2014 so much sand was washed away from the beach that the remains of a 4,000-year-old pre-historic forest (now petrified tree stumps) were revealed. Read more in our blog article and see our video and photos.