Bettystown Beach combines five kilometres of sandy shoreline with a remarkable historical connection: the beach is linked to the discovery of the Tara Brooch. A traditional links course and a designated walking route are also among the features that shape a stay in Bettystown. When choosing your accommodation, you can consider whether you would like to focus on the beach, golf history or paths through the surrounding towns.

The beach and its awards

Bettystown Beach stretches north from the River Boyne, on the boundary between County Meath and County Louth, to the River Nanny near Laytown in the south. The sandy coastline is five kilometres long. The beach holds Blue Flag and Green Coast awards; as its status can change seasonally, it is advisable to check the current awards before your trip.

Lifeguards are provided during the summer bathing season. In June, this is generally at weekends, and in July and August during the usual daytime hours. Check the current schedule if this is important for your beach visit. Two beach wheelchairs are also available at the beach to make access easier for people with physical disabilities or reduced mobility. Check the current rental options before your trip.

A beach story and routes through the area

The connection to the Tara Brooch gives the beach a special historical dimension. The precious piece of jewellery dates from the 8th century and is now kept at the National Museum of Ireland. The beach itself, its position between the River Boyne and the River Nanny, and this story offer different ways to experience a visit, without needing to combine them into a single itinerary.

Those who want to explore Bettystown on foot can follow the Sli na Sláinte Bettystown/East Meath route. It passes through Laytown, Bettystown and Mornington. Check the local signs and route details before setting out. This lets you consider the walk as a separate option alongside a beach visit, without assuming a particular distance or walking time.

Golf with a long history

Laytown and Bettystown Links Golf Club explicitly welcomes visitors. The course is a traditional links course with undulating fairways, revetted bunkers and fast greens. It was first played in the 1880s. The course’s long history and its current description as a links course give the golf offering its own character.

Golf clubs, buggies and caddies can be hired at the club. As availability may change, check the current options in advance. The beach, walking route and golf differ considerably in focus: you can plan your stay around spending time on the coast, walking a route through several towns or playing a round on the links course.

Practical guidance for visiting the beach

Parking is available at the Meath County Council car park beside the Education Campus. From there, Brookside Lane is a short walk to Bettystown Beach. As parking arrangements may change, check local information before you arrive. This lets you plan your beach visit using specific arrival information without assuming a particular parking duration or fee.

For planning, it is worth checking seasonal beach services, local signs and the availability of golf rental equipment wherever they are relevant to your plans. This leaves room to put together Bettystown’s beach, its history and the possible activities according to your own interests.

For the wider travel overview: County Louth.