A recent ranking of the top coastal spots in Europe by The World’s 50 Best Beaches highlights the beauty of Keem Beach on Achill Island in County Mayo, Ireland. This beach is praised for its “raw natural beauty” and “tropical vibes in the raw Irish countryside,” boasting surprisingly blue waters reminiscent of tropical destinations. The horseshoe-shaped bay of Keem Beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and picturesque hills, provides a tranquil swimming experience in the summer.
The soft, nearly white sands of Keem Beach are complemented by a stream flowing from the green cliffs into the clear sea. Despite its remote location, the drive to the beach offers breathtaking coastal views along country roads. Achill Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge, is home to some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, offering spectacular views and opportunities to witness bottlenose dolphins and basking sharks in the waters below.
Croaghaun cliffs, a popular hiking destination near Keem Beach, feature various trails catering to different difficulty levels, including a strenuous hike offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from its 687-meter peak. Visitors can also explore the Deserted Village at Slievemore, a haunting collection of stone cottages that once housed a mountain community. The village’s history dates back thousands of years, but it now stands empty due to various tragic events, including famine.
Keem Beach and other locations on the island have served as filming locations, attracting crews from the movie “The Banshees of Inisherin,” featuring actors Barry Keoghan and Colin Farrell. Notably, Lough Acorrymore, a serene lake surrounded by glacial cliffs, is a standout location in the film. Keem Beach is conveniently located a two-hour drive from Ireland West Airport Knock, offering flights to the UK with airlines like Aer Lingus and Ryanair. Travelers can reach London in just 90 minutes, with Ryanair offering fares starting at £14.99 one way.
