Overview
Trawalua Strand – often referred to locally as Cliffoney Beach – stretches for roughly four miles along the western flank of Mullaghmore Head. Positioned just south of Roskeragh Point in North Sligo, the coastline delivers a wide, open Atlantic panorama backed by high, grassy dunes. The beach’s length means visitors can wander for kilometres without encountering crowds, though the strand naturally divides into two distinct zones. The left-hand side is broad and family-friendly, regularly used by a local equestrian school. The right-hand side narrows into a rock-fringed cove that has long served as a traditional naturist area.
Reaching the sand requires a short but rewarding walk. A small stream guides visitors from the football pitch outside Cliffoney village, winding through low fields before the dunes suddenly give way to the Atlantic. The approach sets the tone for a beach that feels deliberately removed from the busier resort strips further south.
Getting There & Access
The only access to Trawalua Beach is on foot. Parking is available in a small, free car park situated beside the football pitch in Cliffoney village. From there, follow the clearly marked footpath southward. The route crosses a shallow stream and climbs gently over low dunes, covering approximately 0.5 km. The path is unpaved and consists of grass, compacted earth, and sand, so sturdy footwear is recommended. There are no gates or entry fees, and the beach remains open 24 hours a day.
What to See & Do
Walking & Coastal Exploration
The four-mile span is ideal for long, unhurried coastal walks. The dune system provides natural landmarks, while the surrounding cliffs offer occasional vantage points over the Atlantic. On clear days, the flat-topped silhouette of Benbulben dominates the western horizon, and the turreted profile of Classiebawn Castle crowns the northern headland, adding a historic silhouette to the coastal panorama.
Horse Riding
The left-hand section of the beach operates as a well-used corridor for a local riding school. Riders frequently trot along the firm sand with the Atlantic swell as a backdrop. The activity is strictly supervised, and visitors are asked to give riders a wide berth. Watching the horses against the dunes and open water is a distinctive feature of the strand, particularly in the spring and early summer.
Surfing & Water Sports
Strong rip currents make swimming strictly prohibited, but the Atlantic swells have established Trawalua as a consistent spot for board sports.
- Surfing: The beach faces west, catching reliable ocean swells. Autumn and winter bring larger, more powerful waves suited to experienced surfers, while summer offers smaller, manageable sets.
- Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP): The flatter, sheltered sections near the dune line are ideal for paddling on calmer days.
- Sea Kayaking: Paddlers use the inlet and nearby coves for coastal exploration, though they must maintain a safe distance from the stronger mid-beach currents.
- Coastal Running: The firm sand and established dune paths make the strand a favourite for long-distance runners seeking a wind-swept route.
Surf Fishing
The shoreline is recognised for productive surf fishing. Anglers typically cast from the rock-lined sections near the dune base, targeting species like mackerel, pollock, and flatfish. The beach does not provide rental gear, so visitors must bring their own equipment and check local licensing requirements.
Naturist Areas
The far northern and southern ends of the strand are traditionally used by naturists. These sections are more secluded, sheltered by rock outcrops and higher dunes. Visitors preferring a clothing-free experience are expected to respect established boundaries and give other beachgoers plenty of space.
Nature & Wildlife
The dune ecosystem behind the beach supports marram grass and sea thrift, which stabilise the shifting sands. The intertidal zone becomes a feeding ground for wading birds at low tide, with oystercatchers, curlews, and redshanks commonly spotted probing the wet sand. Grey seals occasionally haul out on the rocky outcrops at the cove’s edge, while porpoises and dolphins are regularly sighted riding the Atlantic swell further offshore.
Practical Information & Safety
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily.
- Admission: Free.
- Facilities: There are no permanent facilities on the beach. Toilets, a small shop, and a pub are located in Cliffoney village.
- Tides & Water Safety: The Irish coast experiences significant tidal ranges. Always check tide tables before walking the full length of the beach, as rising water can quickly cut off access routes around headlands or rock outcrops. Strong rip currents are present year-round; swimming is not permitted.
- Dog Policy: Seasonal restrictions typically apply from Easter through late summer. Check local signage or ask in the village for current bylaws.
- Coordinates: 54.439409, -8.468138
Nearby Attractions
- Benbulben: The iconic mountain is clearly visible from the beach and offers a challenging day hike for experienced walkers. See the Benbulben Forest Walk for a guided route.
- Mullaghmore Head: A short walk north leads to the dramatic headland, where coastal paths provide sweeping views of the Atlantic and the Sligo coastline.
- Cliffoney Village: A quiet settlement just inland, offering basic amenities, a local pub, and a few guesthouses for overnight stays.
- Sligo Town: Roughly a 30-minute drive south, Sligo town provides a full range of restaurants, cultural sites, and transport links.
Accessibility
The access route involves an unpaved footpath with uneven ground, a stream crossing, and sandy dune sections. The walk is short but may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility or those using standard wheelchairs. No dedicated accessible infrastructure is currently provided.
Visitor Tips
Early morning visits in summer provide soft light for photography and quieter conditions, while late afternoons cast long shadows across the dunes and highlight Benbulben’s silhouette. If you plan to walk the full four-mile length, pack a tide chart and sturdy footwear, as the sand softens near the high-water mark and the coastal wind can drop temperatures quickly.