County Galway Cottages by the Sea

From Galway Bay to the Beaches of Connemara

County Galway has a varied coastline, with sheltered beaches around Galway Bay and long sandy stretches facing the Atlantic. Coastal holiday homes can be found around Connemara, Clifden, Roundstone and the villages overlooking Galway Bay. The county also has plenty of seaside towns, fishing harbours and walking routes, with beaches ranging from small sheltered coves to wide stretches of white sand.

Galway’s Beaches, Coastal Villages and Harbours

Salthill is one of Galway’s best-known seaside destinations, with a long promenade, several small beaches and views across Galway Bay. Further west, Silverstrand Beach near Barna has a sheltered sandy shoreline, while Spiddal is known for its traditional harbour and coastal walks.

In Connemara, Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Bay near Roundstone are two of the county’s most beautiful beaches. Both have white sand formed from tiny shell fragments, with clear water and dunes separating the bays.

Other places to explore include the fishing village of Roundstone, the beaches around Ballyconneely and the Renvyle Peninsula, where the coastline overlooks the Atlantic.

Connemara National Park, Clifden and the Aran Islands

Clifden is one of Connemara’s main towns, with independent shops, pubs and restaurants. The nearby Sky Road is a 16km circular route offering views across Clifden Bay and the surrounding islands.

Connemara National Park has walking trails through mountains, bogland and woodland, while nearby Kylemore Abbey is known for its historic buildings and Victorian walled garden.

Visitors can also take a ferry from Cleggan to Inishbofin, an island with sandy beaches and coastal walking routes. The Aran Islands, reached from Rossaveel, are another popular destination for exploring traditional villages and historic sites.

For more seaside destinations around the country, our Ireland coastal holiday homes collection includes properties in County Kerry, County Cork, County Donegal and beyond.