A long sandy beach in a sheltered setting and large Atlantic waves define Spanish Point Beach. Surf schools operate there in summer, and the waves are popular with surfers and swimmers. You can look for shells and build sandcastles on the beach. There is also ample parking; it is a good idea to check the current parking situation before setting off.
Beach, Rocky Coast and Trails
At the rock pools at Black Rock and along the rocky shore of Spanish Point, you can observe various types of seaweed, shells and other marine life. The tides affect access to the pools, so plan your visit around the tidal conditions. Alongside the sandy beach, this reveals a rocky side of the coast, where small pools and marine life take centre stage.
There are four signposted, colour-coded walking routes in Spanish Point. Their names and markings distinguish the routes:
- Kelp Walk: green route
- Cleedagh Walk: blue route
- San Marcos Walk: yellow route
- Morony Walk: white route
As route conditions can change, it is worth checking for updates before setting out. The trails offer another way to spend time in Spanish Point without focusing on the beach and golf.
Golf and Local History
Spanish Point Golf Club combines a long history with a clearly described course: it was founded in 1896. The challenging 9-hole links course offers views of the Atlantic and can be played year-round. Visitors are welcome throughout the year too; check the current visitor arrangements before your visit.
A historical trace lies right on the club grounds: the former New Milltown Race Course was located by the third tee. The name Spanish Point, in turn, dates back to 1588, when two ships of the Spanish Armada were wrecked off the coast. The Miltown Malbay Races were an annual festival, first mentioned in 1787. These details point to different aspects of local history: a former racecourse, the origin of a name and a historic festival.
Geology and Protected Areas
The rock also gives Spanish Point a sense of deep time. It is about 317 to 320 million years old and dates from the Pennsylvanian, also known as the Upper Carboniferous or Namurian. Spanish Point also lies within both a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Special Protection Area for birds (SPA).
County Clare as a Regional Setting
Beyond Spanish Point, County Clare offers other distinctive natural destinations. The Cliffs of Moher rise to over 700 feet at O’Brien’s Tower and stretch for almost 14 kilometres along the Clare coast. The visitor facilities include 800 metres of paved paths and viewing points, including access to the tower. Visitors can explore walking trails in Burren National Park. The wider County Clare region thus encompasses everything from coastal landscapes to national park trails.
Discover more destinations: Mountshannon, Kilmurry, Quin, Kilkee, Tulla, Doolin, Ennis, Lahinch
For the broader travel overview: County Clare.
